Prequalification

Contacting a bank and getting prequalified for a loan can expedite the buying process. If you are not obtaining a loan, having a funds availability letter to accompany an offer will help.

Narrowing Criteria For Property Search

98% of buyers start their property search online. However, knowing exactly what amenities you want can help you narrow your search. Bedroom bathroom ratio, square footage, location, school district, and acreage, are just a few of the specifics to help narrow your search.

Property Search

Your Real Estate agent is going to be able to assist you in searching for the perfect property. They may also be aware of properties coming soon that they can inform you of. 

Showing

Each property will have its own rules for showing based on what the seller is comfortable with. Your agent and their company will make sure these guidelines are followed. An agent can facilitate for you to view property in person, 3D, or virtual showings. 

Offer

When you find the property that suits you best, it's time to make an offer. In a busy market it is best to give at or close to your best offer right out of the gate. The Seller has the option to accept, counter, or reject. If the selling agent informs you that there are multiple offers, this is when you want to present your highest offer.

Earnest Money

Earnest money is considered to be a good faith deposit. It often accompanies an offer to purchase to assure the seller that the buyer will follow through with purchase as stated in the contract. Earnest money can oftentimes be returned to the buyer if conditions of the contract are not met, however, this must be agreed by all parties of the contract.

Acceptance

Once the offer is accepted, your agent will send a copy of the contrat to you, your lender, and all parties involved. There are several dates your agent will help you meet. You have 15 days for inspections, 25 days for loan commitment, 25 days for appraisal deadline. If these dates are not going to be met, they can be extended by amending the contract.

Inspections

There is a specified amount of time in the contract for a buyer to have inspections. If there are discrepancies, you can ask the seller to rectify them before closing. All of the inspection must be completed within the contract allotted time. The seller can agree to do so, counter proposal or, choose not to do any repairs. Types of inspections include but not limited to:

• Home/Building • Lead • Asbestos • Fireplace • Pool/Spa 
• Sewer/Lagoon • Well • Water Quality • Radon 
• Mold/Air Quality • Environmental Pest 

Appraisal

The bank will order an appraisal to learn the value of the home you are buying. If you are paying cash you may also have an appraisal done. 

Escrow

The bank prepares loan documents for the buyer and the title company prepares title commitment.

Final Walk-Thru

A final walk-thru is done prior to closing to make sure everything with the property is as the contract stated it would be.

Set Up Utilites Accounts

Setting up utility accounts prior to closing can make for a smooth transition and can prevent any interruptions in service. Utility Service Providers might include: 

Electric • Water • Internet • Cable • Satelite • Trash • Propane • Natural Gas

Close

Sign final closing documents and receive keys to your new property.

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