The Buying Process
FIND YOUR NEXT HOME
Although the home-buying process may initially appear overwhelming, it can be an enjoyable and manageable experience with the right direction and information. I am there every step of the way to give you the latest market analysis, resources, and important next steps to stay informed and give you a clear path of what lies ahead. I will provide you with the strategy and resources from beginning to end to achieve the goal of getting you into your dream home.
Getting Started
UNDERSTANDING THE PROCESS
Before you start your home search, here are some important items for you to consider:
Have a good idea of what you can afford. Falling in love with a home you can’t buy is a bummer. Avoid the heartache before it happens.
The following actions can impact your financing options when applying for a home loan. Press pause on:
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making any large purchases (i.e., vehicles, appliances, furniture, etc.)
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changing jobs
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consolidating bills (yes, even this)
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falling behind on payments
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opening/changing bank accounts
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moving bank assets from one bank account to another
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depositing large amounts of money
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running a credit report
Lenders look closely at your finances and where your income comes from, so you want to have as few items as possible to explain when you meet with one.
Step 1: Find a Lender
If you haven’t taken this step yet, I have a few great lenders I work with, but if you’ve got someone already, I’m happy to work with whoever makes you feel most comfortable. Your lender will look over your finances and work on pre-approval, which is crucial when you’re ready to make an offer. This pre-approval will make a difference when we’re putting together our offer, especially if we need to move fast.
Step 2: Set up a search
Once you’ve got your wishlist and areas you love, I’ll set up an MLS (Multiple Listing Service) search that includes everything you want and excludes those deal-breaker items you don’t, but I encourage you to set up your own searches, too. Between your searches and mine, we’re sure to find properties that you want to see.
Step 3: Look at properties
This is the fun part. We’ll get together and start our tour of listings you’re vibing with. Virtual tours are great, but nothing replaces an in-home tour to give you the experience of how a place feels when you walk in for the first time. We might find your next house straightaway, or it could take a while, but the important thing is not to get discouraged. We will find something great that works for you and your needs.
Step 4. We found it!
This is when things get really exciting. Whether you’re the only buyer on the table or one of several, I’ll put together the best offer I can to get you the house you want. I’ve got years of experience buying and selling houses that have multiple offers, and I can talk you through your options so that your offer is competitive yet still fits what you can afford.
Steps to Close
When your offer is accepted, your lender will get to work getting all the information necessary to get your loan underwritten.
We’ll hear from a title agent who’ll let us know if the title is clean or has any red flags.
You’ll also start receiving messages from the escrow officer, who will handle the collection and holding of your earnest money, which is your upfront financial commitment to buying the home. The escrow officer will also provide you with a settlement statement that outlines all the fees and expenses that you’ll be responsible for.
Buyer Story
Kelly was terrific to work with on our home purchase. Highly communicative and savvy about the market and making an offer on our desired property. She is timely with appointments and works well with her assistant Jes.. Kelly is high energy but listens carefully, thoughtfully, and patiently. I highly recommend Kelly as your agent! Woo Hoo!
Paul
