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