THE HOME BUYING PROCESS

1. SELECT AN AGENT. It is my policy to work as a Buyers’ Agent. I will provide the State required forms,  "Understanding Whom Real Estate Agents Represent" and "Consent for Dual Agency." I will explain the  Buyer Agency Agreement. Our State requires a signed Agreement if the Buyer wishes to have representation.  Please note, it is customary for the seller to pay the brokerage fee. 

2. SHOP FOR A MORTGAGE LENDER AND MAKE AN APPLICATION. The lender will determine your Purchasing Power and provide a letter of pre-approval.  The lender will order your credit reports.  I can provide references for good loan officers who will counsel you as to the best mortgage plan for you and get your loan approved in a timely manner. I recommend that you use a local direct lender and not search for a loan on the internet. 

3. SELECT A HOME

4. MAKE AN OFFER with the terms and contingencies you wish to include. Terms may be negotiated between seller and buyer through their respective agents.

5.  CONTRACT TERMS ACCEPTED BY THE SELLER AND BUYER Once all terms are agreed to, the contract is considered RATIFIED. All contingencies and time frames begin on the date of ratification.

            a. Perform a home inspection

            b. Proceed with the mortgage process, and provide all documentation to your lender

            c. Satisfy all contingencies in the contract

            d. Earnest money is deposited

6. LENDER ORDERS APPRAISAL

7. MORTGAGE APPROVAL

8. TITLE SEARCH IS ORDERED BY SETTLEMENT COMPANY

9. TERMITE INSPECTION DONE WITHIN 30 DAYS OF SETTLEMENT

10. BUYER OBTAINS HOMEOWNERS’ INSURANCE POLICY

11. UTILITY COMPANIES ARE CONTACTED BY BUYER TO ESTABLISH ACCOUNT IN THEIR NAME AS OF SETTLEMENT DATE

12. FINAL WALK-THROUGH INSPECTION on day of or day before closing

13. SETTLEMENT

14. MOVE IN!