Property Search

Prepare to Buy

The important "first steps" in buying a home.

Choose an Agent

Tips for contracting the best agent for you.

Search Homes

Finding the perfect home doesn't have to be complicated.

Get Under Contract

What to expect once you're under contract.

Closing Day

The final steps to closing on your new home.

Preparing to Buy Your Home

Before you embark on your property search, it’s important to take some preparatory steps.

Build Your Green File

  • Gather all your essential financial documents in a green file. These documents will be necessary when securing financing for your property.
  • Include financial statements, bank account information, investment details, credit card statements, auto loan documentation, recent pay stubs, tax returns for the past two years, copies of leases for investment properties, and information on 401K statements, life insurance, stocks, bonds, and mutual accounts.

Check Your Credit Rating

  • Your credit score plays a significant role in determining the type of property you can purchase and the price range available to you.
  • It is recommended to check your credit rating with a reputable lending institution to understand your financial standing and affordability.
  • Lenders will assess your credit ratings from the three major credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
  • We can provide recommendations for experienced lenders in residential, construction, commercial, and investment real estate who can assist you further.

Exercise Financial Caution

  • It's important to exercise prudence with your finances during this period.
  • Avoid making sudden career changes or large purchases that could impact your financial stability and ability to secure a property.
  • Approach your property purchase from a position of financial strength and stability.

By taking these preparatory measures, you will be better equipped to navigate the property buying process and make informed decisions regarding your investment.

Choosing a Real Estate Agent

When it comes to buying a property, it’s crucial to have an expert by your side who can assist you with the complex process and guide you through important financial decisions. We are here to provide you with the support you need to purchase your dream home.

Tips for Choosing an Agent

Having an experienced real estate agent by your side throughout this process is invaluable. They will provide you with valuable market insights, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure that your best interests are represented during the offer and negotiation stages.

Remember, this is an exciting journey, and with the assistance of a skilled agent, you can navigate it with confidence and make informed decisions that align with your goals and preferences.

Time to Go Shopping

Now that you have completed the necessary preparations, it’s time to embark on the search for the right property that meets your needs and preferences. Here’s a guide to assist you in finding and purchasing your ideal property.

Explore the Neighborhoods

Take the opportunity to drive around and explore the neighborhoods, complexes, or subdivisions that interest you. Familiarize yourself with the surroundings and envision what it would be like to own a property in those areas. This will help you narrow down your choices and identify the locations that resonate with you.

Refine Your Search

Based on your initial exploration, narrow down your options to a select few properties that pique your interest the most. Consult with your real estate agent to schedule appointments and visit these properties. Additionally, discuss the long-term resale potential of the properties with your agent to gain insights into their investment value.

Make an Offer

Once you have identified the property you wish to purchase, your real estate agent will guide you through the process of making a compelling offer that the seller will find attractive. Your agent will conduct a thorough investigation of the potential costs and expenses associated with the property to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the investment. They will also help you structure your offer to give you an advantage over competing offers.

Get Under Contract

Navigating the property purchase process involves several important steps. Here’s a breakdown of each step to guide you through the process.

More About the Process

Contract

The initial agreement.

Escrow

Property taxes and insurance.

Inspections

Insuring there are no surprises.

Appraisals

Valuating the home based on comps.

Closing Day: Tying Up Loose Ends

As you approach the closing day, there are a few important details to address.
A day before or on the day of closing, you will have the opportunity to conduct a final walk-through inspection of the property. This step ensures that everything is in working order, matches your previous viewings, and that no additional items are left behind. It allows you to verify that all the agreed-upon fixtures and belongings are still present.
We will provide you with a list of useful contact numbers to help you activate necessary home services and utilities after the closing. This ensures a smooth transition and allows you to settle into your new property comfortably.
While rare, unforeseen glitches or minor issues may arise even at this stage. If anything unexpected happens, rest assured that we are here to assist you. Our experience enables us to handle such situations efficiently and with minimal stress.
During the closing, the closing agent will provide a settlement statement that summarizes all financial transactions involved in the process. This statement will be signed by both you and the seller(s), as well as the closing agent, certifying its accuracy. If you are financing the purchase, you will also need to sign relevant documents required by the lending institution. In case you are unable to attend the scheduled closing, alternative arrangements can be made with prior notice. If you need to bring funds to the transaction, you can choose to wire them electronically into the closing agent’s escrow account or bring a certified bank check as specified on the settlement statement. The seller will arrange to provide you with all property keys and any other essential information during the closing.

With all these steps completed, you are nearing the exciting moment of homeownership. We will guide you through the process, ensuring a successful closing and a seamless transition into your new property.