Buying Process


Getting Started

  • Review and discuss homebuyer’s decisions and preferences in regard to:
    1. Housing requirements vs. desires
    2. Preferred locations
    3. Type of housing (apartment, townhouse, detached house, etc.)
    4. Buying vs. renting
    5. Timeframe until occupancy
    6. Special concerns
  • Sign Exclusive Buyer-Broker agreement
    • This agreement states an agent fully represents you as the buyer
  • Discuss financial situation
  • Provide references to lending institutions
  • Analyze the various benefits of different mortgages, calculate loan amounts applicable to you, determine monthly payment most suitable to your situation

The Search

  • Based on your desires, search the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for houses that meet your specification
  • Select properties for closest fit to your needs
  • Guide you in visiting selected homes
  • Provide extensive information, constant support and professional suggestions in order to allow you to make an informed decision when choosing your new home
  • Use personal contacts to get leads on new listings

Making an Offer

  • Discuss possibilities and determine fair price based on:
    1. comparison to other similar homes
    2. location, style and amenities
    3. days on market
  • Assist you in structuring the offer
  • Present offer consisting of:
    1. price and financial terms
    2. settlement date
    3. move-in date
    4. inspection (home and environmental)
  • Assist in negotiations

After offer is accepted

  • Keep you well informed with all that must be accomplished during the time between the contract and settlement
  • Monitor the processing of your loan application
  • Arrange appraisal by lending institution of your choice in order to ensure proper valuation
  • Assist with utility notification to confirm service upon occupancy
  • Arrange structural inspection, termite inspection, and any other additional inspections to ensure the property’s condition
  • Constant feed-back as to standings in all areas

Settlement

  • Accompany you on the pre-settlement inspection to affirm that the house is in the same shape as when it was purchased; usually takes place around a day before settlement
  • Accompany you at settlement when you sign loan papers and present check to cover settlement costs
  • Provide advice until you are moved in