1.  If you currently own a home and need the proceeds from your home to use on your new home, consider listing your home now. Many homeowners will not accept a contingent offer on the sale of your present home.

2.  Discuss features desired in your new home.

3.  Your name is entered in the Prospect list on the computer tied to the multi-list. I will send you automatic updates based on your search criteria.

Showings

1.  Establish a convenient time for all parties.  As realtor's we must make an appointment for each home we show, so being timely is very important.

2.  Arrangements are made for traveling together or for riding separately.

3.  Be prepared to take off your shoes, if requested by the Sellers.

4. Do not hesitate to open closets, drawers, etc.  The seller expects you to.

5. Be prepared to give honest feedback to me as your Realtor.  We will not be offended and need to learn your likes and dislikes regarding homes in general.  This will assist me in helping you more thoroughly. 

Writing The Purchase Agreement

1. You must have a mortgage pre-approval in writing.

2.  You will need an earnest deposit check.  A personal check is acceptable.  The amount of the check is up to you but you need to show you are a serious buyer with resources to purchase.  By law, the check must be deposited within 2 business days after acceptance.

3.  Purchasers need to choose the price they are willing to offer the seller.

4.  You should be wary of advice from well meaning friends and relatives.  Unless they are very familiar with the current market conditions, they could cost you money or the chance to get the home you really wanted.

5.  Do not hesitate to ask questions.  You need to be comfortable with this entire process.

6.  All signatures must be original on all purchase agreements and addendum's (Sellers disclosure & Lead-based paint disclosure).

7.  Remember that the purchase agreement will be the blueprint of the entire process.

The Offer Process

1.  After you have completed the purchase agreement and addendum's, we will deliver/present your offer to the listing agent.

2.  The sellers can ACCEPT, REJECT, or CHANGE THE TERMS.

3.  If accepted, you have just bought a home.  If rejected, you can put another offer together or begin looking for another house.  If anything is changed, it is considered a COUNTER OFFER.  If you agree to the changes, you will initial those changes and bottom line the purchase agreement and you have just bought a home.  If you do not agree, you will then make other changes you agree to and the sellers will have to agree to those before a sale is made.

WHAT NEXT?

1.  Once we have an accepted an offer it is time for us to set up any and all inspections, and to get a formal approval from the lending institution.

2.  For the inspection plan on being there.  A 2-3 hour block of time should be set aside to accompany the inspector.  Remember that we are there to find out everything we can about the condition of the home, but we are really looking for any major item that would require a large expenditure to fix or replace.  Since there is no such thing as a perfect house, there will be items that will need your attention when you move in.  If we find a major problem (furnace doesn’t work, etc.) we can then ask for some relief from the seller, or decide you don’t want the home.

3.  As it relates to your loan, get your loan officer all the information they require as soon as you can.  Once we get the approval we are clear to set the closing date and time.  The Title Company and Mortgage Company will agree on a time that they have available.   You will be notified as to the date and location of the closing.

4.  It will take several days for the closing documents to be prepared for your review.  If you want an attorney to assist you in this review, please let us know in advance so that an additional packet can be prepared.

5.  The closing packet will include a copy of all of the real estate documents you will sign at the closing along with the basic charges.  At this point you will also get the closing costs from your loan officer.  Combine these two costs and get a CERTIFIED or CASHIERS check made out to you.  In addition, you will need a driver’s license and a one-year homeowner’s policy. Bring the receipt and policy binder to the closing.

6.  Typically the closing takes about one hour.  Be prepared for a little longer however, we suggest blocking off a 2-hour block of time.

        
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