Buyers

Before beginning your search, your first step in the home-buying process is to get pre-approved for a mortgage, unless you will be paying the full price of your home in cash. Based on your income and credit history, a licensed lender will determine how much a bank will lend you, which will help define the appropriate price range for your search. Having a current pre-approval letter in-hand is essential when placing an offer for a home.

Now is the time to consider your ideal home’s location and amenities. I will schedule showings so that we can view properties of interest. Additionally, I will activate notifications for exclusive Coming Soon and Off-Market properties as they hit the market. I will also send comps for homes of interest to give you a better idea of what they might sell for in the current market.

When you identify a home you like and are ready to pursue it, I will advise you on putting forth the strongest offer possible and will complete the necessary paperwork and elements to submit it. Your offer is packaged with a proof of funds and pre-approval letter. The seller can accept, reject or counter your offer, which you in turn can accept, reject, or renegotiate. I will provide advice and guidance throughout the process until we reach an accepted offer or move on to pursue other options.

As a buyer, it is important to conduct a home inspection after your offer is accepted to determine the overall condition of the property. I can recommend reputable licensed home inspectors in the area who will do a thorough inspection of the home’s condition, structure and systems. Depending on the terms of the signed contract, some issues discovered during the inspection might lead to further negotiations.

If your offer is accepted, while you are conducting a home inspection, you will simultaneously work with an attorney to represent and guide you as you move into contract. Your attorney’s job is vital to protecting your interests and negotiating the best contract terms for you as a buyer. You will want to select an attorney who is familiar with the area. I can provide you with a recommended list of well-regarded attorneys in the area.

Your lender will schedule a time to view the home and complete an appraisal. An appraisal is an assessment of the property’s market value, performed by a licensed appraiser, for the purpose of obtaining a mortgage. If the home appraises, the bank will issue the loan approval, and the loan will be funded with clearance to close. If the appraisal comes in at below expected value, depending on the terms of the contract, you may be able to renegotiate the contract terms, terminate the contract, or make up the difference to the bank.

Prior to closing, I will schedule a final walkthrough of the property to verify that the property is still in acceptable condition and any negotiated repairs were done. The walkthrough confirms that no damage has been done to the home since the time of inspection and that the major systems and appliances are in working order.

I will monitor and coordinate all of the details necessary to get you to the finish line. Once all of the conditions of the contract have been satisfied, you have performed inspections and your loan, if any, is ready to fund, I will arrange a final walkthrough, and the closing is held. The closing documents are signed, payment is exchanged, and you will receive the keys to your new home. Congratulations! You are now a homeowner!