Whether you are buying your first home or your fifth, the process can feel daunting. You don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m here to guide you through each step of the process and help make your home purchase match the needs and wants for the changes in your life. Let’s take the first step together! Follow along for a clear example of what to expect during the buying process so you can move forward with confidence.
Determine how you are funding your new home. Will you be paying in cash, selling another home to purchase this one, or using a lender? These questions can help develop your timeline.
Interview several. Find one you connect with. Then get pre-approved. Getting pre-approved allows you to narrow your search and makes your offer stronger when it comes time buy. To pre-approve you, your lender will review your income, assets, and credit history. If you don’t currently have a lender, I can recommend a few. Call me (331) 442-1808.
What is the ideal home that will meet your current needs/wants. Use this list to help guide your thoughts. Then email it to me to help convey everything you envisioned. Give special attention to the number of beds/baths, the style of home, and location. Make sure to rate each item on priority. High-priority items you can’t live without and lower-priority for things that would be an added bonus. This list will help guide your search and give me an idea of what you are looking for.
Once you have a budget and we know what you are looking for it is time to search. Start by registering on my website, using the button in the top right corner of your screen. I can send you potential homes and take you to tour them in person when you are ready. In the meantime, get a feel for what homes are out there by viewing them here.
Even if this isn’t your first time at the closing table, every home—and every market—is different. Whether it’s your first home or your fifth, having a knowledgeable agent on your side can make all the difference. From strategy and negotiation to local insight and stress-free coordination, I’m here to make your next purchase a successful one. Let’s connect. You can learn more about me and get in touch here.
When it's time to make an offer on a home, I will negotiate on your behalf for the best terms for you. I can negotiate things like the price, repair costs, timelines, and contingencies.
The legal contract buyer(s) and the seller(s) enter into once the buyer(s) offer has been accepted by the seller(s) is called the Purchase and Sale Agreement. It outlines the terms and conditions of the sale and is signed by both parties. I will review the Purchase and Sale Agreement with you so that you understand all of its terms and will review it for accuracy.
Once you have an agreement you pay Earnest Money. Earnest money is when you agree to deposit a percentage of the home’s asking price into an independent account to demonstrate to the seller(s) that you are serious about buying. In return, the seller(s) agree to take their home off the market. When the sale closes that money is put toward the down payment or closing costs. If the sale fails, your Earnest Money could be at risk. I'm here to help you understand when and why that could happen so that you can avoid those circumstances.
After the Purchase and Sale Agreement is signed, a home inspector is hired to examine the home’s health, safety, and major mechanical systems. If any issues arise from an inspection, the buyer may be able to renegotiate their offer.
If you are not paying in cash or with a contingent home, after your offer is accepted, the final loan must be approved. During this process, your lender will decide if they are willing to approve your mortgage based on things like your creditworthiness, the title history, and the appraisal of the home you want to buy and your credit. It is of the utmost important that you don't go out and buy something expensive, hold off on buying new furniture till after your home closes.
You will receive a Title Report. This is a report for you and your lender that details the history of the home to ensure there are no legal barriers to purchasing it.
Escrow is an impartial third-party process where documents and funds are deposited by buyers, sellers, and lenders to facilitate the closing of a real estate transaction.