02

The Home Buying Process

From Pre-approval to the Closing Table!

Welcome to the exciting adventure of finding your dream home! As your dedicated real estate agent, I am happy to guide you through every step of the home-buying process. This comprehensive guide was meticulously prepared to provide you with a detailed overview of what to expect on this journey. From demystifying the mortgage process to assisting you with a lender questionnaire, offering a handy showing checklist, explaining the intricacies of going under contract, navigating the inspections period, & finally, preparing you for the closing process – I got you! I am committed to ensuring that each step in this process is smooth, understood, & tailored to your unique needs.

04

Consider Wants & Needs

Get Clear on Non-negotiables

Before we hop into the home search adventure, I like to advise my clients to create a "Needs" list & a "Wants" list. This will help us to really focus on the things that are most important in your future home. Needs are the non-negotiable. Wants are the ones you’d like to have, but you can add or change down the road. Remember you can’t change the lot, the location, or the price you paid.

Needs Might Look Like

✓ Enough bedrooms for your family.
✓ First-floor master bedroom or office.
✓ Close proximity to work or school.
✓ Yard for children or pets.
✓ Big backyard for entertaining.

✓ Specific paint or exterior color.
✓ Fenced-in front yard.
✓ Specific flooring.
✓ Walk-in shower or double vanity.
✓ A pool with a jacuzzi.

06

It’s Time for Showings!

Get Ready for the Fun Part

You’re so prepared to get inside those homes on your shortlist & see for yourself if one of them is soon-to-be your new address. Below are a few things to keep in mind.

Read Over Your Wants Vs. Needs List & Revisit Your Budget.
Having this fresh on your mind will help you stay objective and focused.

Take Pictures & Videos.
These will help you remember key things about homes after a long day of appointments and open houses.

Consider The Lot, Lot Size, & Location.
All of these things cannot be changed.

Look For Signs Of Structural Integrity.
Water damage, cracks in walls or ceilings, sloping floors, & other potential issues.

Pay Attention To Noise Levels.
From nearby roads, airports, and railways.

Examine The Roof For Leaks, Missing Shingles, Or Other Damage.
Inspect siding, windows, doors, and the overall exterior condition.

Consider Layout & Space.
Does the property's layout suit your lifestyle? Check room sizes, storage space, and the flow between rooms.

08

You’re Under Contract

Almost Time To Celebrate

You’re well on your way to your new home sweet home. Here's a quick rundown on what happens after you make an offer & your new home is under contract.

Provide An Earnest Money Deposit.
This is a good-faith deposit to show your commitment to buying the property. This 3% deposit is typically held in an escrow account until the closing.

Schedule Home Inspection.
Who can help you compose an offer that gives you every advantage in landing the home!

Put Your Best Foot—and Price—forward.
Depending on the results, you may negotiate with the seller for repairs or credits. Schedule this asap!

Order Appraisal.
Your lender will initiate this. If the appraisal is lower than the agreed-upon price, negotiations or additional funds may be required.

Finalize the Loan.
You'll provide documents & go through underwriting with your lender.

Title Search.
A title company will conduct a title search to ensure that there are no liens or legal issues with the property’s ownership.

Final Walk-through.
Shortly before the closing date, you'll have the opportunity to do a final walk-through of the property to ensure it's in the agreed-upon condition.