Step One

Get Ready For Homeownership

  • Build a good credit history
  • Contact a mortgage lender (Please let me know if you need any assistance with this)
  • Find out what types of mortgages you quality for
  • Obtain a loan pre-approval letter
  • Consider hiring an attorney to review all contracts and agreements associated with the home buying process
  • Save up for a down payment (typically 3-20% of property’s value)
    • Consider closing costs which can include taxes, attorney’s fees, and transfer fees
    • Consider utilities and monthly bills, such as homeowner's assessments

Step Two

Hire Me As Your REALTOR®

  • Ask me about my First Time Homebuyer incentive
  • Take a look at my client testimonials under the 'About' tab
  • Ask me about buyer's representation contracts and agreements; make sure you understand the terms
  • Complete the Prospective Buyer questionnaire under the 'Buying' tab to help me gain a better understanding of your real estate needs
  • Schedule a Buyer Consultation with me

Step Three

Find The Right Property

  • Determine what is important to you, such as particular schools, neighborhood amenities, monthly mortgage payment, public transportation, walkability, etc.
  • Make sure you include home owner’s assessments, utilities, and taxes when calculating the monthly mortgage payment
  • After we've completed your Buyer Consultation, you will begin receiving prospective properties directly to your e-mail inbox
    • Review those properties and share with me your properties of interest

Finance The Property

  • Contact your mortgage broker or lender
  • The lender or attorney will run a title search to ensure there are no clouds on the title
  • Make sure you understand the financing terms—ask the lender for clarification, if needed

Step Four

Make An Offer

  • Ensure the property is inspected by a licensed home inspector
  • Inquire about title insurance
  • Make sure the title is clear, or make your offer contingent upon title clearance
  • Read all contracts before signing—make sure you understand all of the terms, ask questions
  • Place a competitive bid and be prepared to make a counter-offer
  • Keep your credit score stable and in-check by waiting to purchase any big-ticket items until long after the closing
  • Remember, only one offer will result in a sale, so be prepared to put your best foot forward

Step Five

Closing and Life After The Big Purchase

  • Protect your new asset by obtaining insurance such as homeowner’s, flood, disaster, and fire
  • Weatherproof your new home
  • Maintain files—digital or print—for all warranties, insurance documents, contracts, etc.
  • Keep original closing documents in a safe place, preferably outside the home (such as a safety deposit box)
  • Set up utilities bills in your name, maintain files
  • Implement desired aesthetic changes such as painting, minor construction, and re-flooring
  • Set a move date and hire movers or plan a move party with your friends
  • Get to know your neighbors and explore your new neighborhood
  • If you're happy with my work as your real estate professional, be sure to recommend me to friends and family! I welcome honest reviews and testimonials on my website and on my Facebook Page.

Step Six