Buying

The first step in finding your perfect property is partnering with a real estate expert to guide you through what can be a complex process.  From knowledge of the local market, a thorough understanding of the many contract documents, the ability to help negotiate in your best interests, and a network of contacts in the real estate and affiliated industries, an experienced broker is an invaluable resource in finding and securing your home.

In order to work together, we will sign a Buyer Broker Agreement that outlines the specifics of our working relationship.  Let’s talk about what our relationship can look like for you and your individual situation.

If you are moving here from out-of-state, I have a network of trusted Realtors® across the U.S. and in other countries that are happy to assist you transitioning out of your current home!

The next step in finding your dream home is contacting a lender to get pre-approved for a loan.  This lets you know your spending power, and lets sellers know that you are serious and prepared to move quickly, which will give you a competitive advantage in your search.

See our mortgage calculator at the bottom of this page for a quick idea of what your price range may be.  

Professional contractors are a busy bunch.  Creating a relationship before you start your search will help you get the quickest estimates on any potential improvements, which will help you shop within your budget and make appropriate offers.  This will also help during the home inspection negotiation process.

Selecting any home involves trade-offs.  It is important to know what you must have and what you can maybe live without.  Make a list of your needs and wants, from broad categories such as neighborhood, to more specific details such as kitchen layout.  Know which items are dealbreakers, and which are flexible.  You can refine this list along the way.

It’s time to start looking at properties!  I will provide you with potential matches, and you can keep an eye on the market as well.  Some people find their home immediately, others have a longer search.  It is best not to compare your journey to anyone else’s, just make sure you are choosing the home that is best for you.

Make sure to consider a home’s total cost, not just improvements and monthly payment.  Property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, possible HOA fees, routine maintenance, utilities, and closing costs all must be considered.  See the mortgage calculator below for help viewing the whole picture.

Once you have found your dream property, it is time to submit an offer.  We will guide you through every step of the transaction process, from writing offers and counteroffers, managing paperwork and scheduling, assisting with negotiations, and making sure you feel support and clarity all the way to your successful closing.

Delivering the earnest money deposit will be one of your first and most important contract deadlines.  You will generally have three days after offer acceptance to do so.  Your earnest money demonstrates your commitment to the contract because once you have made your deposit, failing to meet certain terms could result in its forfeiture.

Applying for your mortgage and insurance are also early and critical deadlines.  Mortgage approval can take time, so start the process as soon as your offer has been accepted.

I will provide you with detailed information on the property that you will need when applying for insurance.  You will generally have about a week from acceptance to apply, and several days after that to withdraw the offer based on insurance if necessary.

In most cases, the seller will provide a full disclosure of any adverse material facts about the property that they are aware of.  It is still crucial to conduct your own inspections with your chosen professionals.  After home inspections are complete, it is time to decide what you are willing to take care of and what work you would like the seller to have done.  We will help you through every step of the negotiation process.

Contingencies are clauses in the purchase agreement stating certain conditions that must be met by either the buyer or the seller in order for the contract to continue. They are there for everyone’s protection.

Inspections and your loan are some of the most important contingencies.  You must also review various documents which may include: the property’s title work & survey, HOA disclosures, the appraisal, permits and disclosures for any additional property features (well, septic, solar, etc.), and various other potentials that my team and I will communicate to you.

It’s finally here, the last step.  You will spend about an hour reviewing and signing documents with your escrow officer, who will then give you your house keys!

We always love to keep in touch with our clients, and are available for any help you may need even once you have signed the dotted line.  We look forward to hearing about your new adventure.