THE HOMEFINDING PROCESS

Finding and Buying a Home

I know that buying a home can be overwhelming. That's why this guide was created.........to provide the buyer with a step-by-step of what to expect during the process.

Rest assured, I will be your resource and guide every step of the way.

Initial Consultation...it's a good idea to come to this meeting with an idea of the property you are looking for.  Essential factors include the type of house you're considering (single-family, townhouse, condo, new construction, fixer-upper), the minimum # of bedrooms and bathrooms you're willing to live with, and the location.  During the Initial Consultation, we'll go over the following:

• Determine your priorities and needs
• Review "agency" choices and select appropriate working relationship
• Discuss financing options

Obtain Financing...a large majority of today's buyers need a mortgage to purchase a home.  To determine your price range, it's best to meet with a loan officer prior to viewing any properties.  In order to give you the most accurate price range, the loan officer will review your credit score, down payment money, and debt-to-income ratio.  The steps to Obtaining Financing are as follows:

• Find a mortgage company
• Consult with a loan officer
• Pre-qualification
• Complete loan application
• Obtain loan pre-approval
• Provide requested documentation

Find the Right Home...now the fun begins!  Once we know your price range and search criteria, I'll begin sending you properties via email that meet your criteria on a daily basis.  I strongly encourage my clients to be proactive in the home search process by driving-by properties of interest before scheduling appointments to see them; many times, you'll be able to dismiss a house based solely on its outward appearance or the neighborhood in general.  Private showing appointments are scheduled for properties that pass the "drive-by" test, and my clients are also informed of any weekend Open House's that fit their search criteria.  Finding the Right Home is accomplished by the following:

• Realtor shows you properties based on your criteria
• Evaluate each property with Realtor
• Choose the right home

Prepare an Offer

• Review comparable sales to determine offer price
• Review progress of loan pre-approval; decide on financing
• Decide on other terms (inspections, possession date, personal property, etc.)
• Prepare earnest money deposit

Reach an Agreement with the Seller

• Present your offer
• Negotiate terms and possible counteroffers
• Agree upon sales contract with seller

Complete the Settlement Process

• Deposit earnest money
• Review seller''s property disclosures
• Review preliminary title report
• Roof, termite and other inspections
• Remove any remaining contingencies
• Arrange for homeowners insurance
• Arrange for home warranty
• Arrange for movers
• Final walk-through of property with sales associate
• Provide balance of down payment and closing costs
• Sign documents
• Loan funding
• Record title
• Receive keys from sales associate
• Move in!