YOUR DREAM HOME AWAITS.
DISCOVER YOUR DREAM HOME
Buying your first home can feel daunting, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m here to guide you through the process and make your dream of homeownership a reality. Let’s take the first step together! Follow along for a clear example of what to expect, so you can move forward with confidence.
Interview several lenders to find one you connect with. Once you have picked your lender, get pre-approved. Getting pre-approved allows you to narrow your search and makes your offer stronger when it comes time buy. To pre-approve you, your lender will review your income, assets, and credit history. If you don’t currently have a lender, I can recommend a few. Call me at 360.824.2572.
Imagine your ideal home then use this list to convey everything you envisioned. Give special attention to the number of beds/baths, the style of home, and location. Make sure to rate each item on priority. High-priority items you can’t live without and lower-priority for things that would be an added bonus. This list will help guide your search and give me an idea of what you are looking for. Email me your list here.
Once you have a budget and we know what you are looking for it is time to search. Start by setting up a My Windermere account using the button in the top right corner of your screen. I can send you potential homes and take you to tour them in person when you are ready. In the meantime, get a feel for what homes are out there by viewing them here.
Buying a home is likely one of the biggest purchases you will ever make. It is of the utmost importance to have a professional who understands the market and can expertly navigate you through the intricate buying process. Don't hesitate to get in contact. You can learn more about me and find all of my contact information here.
When it's time to make an offer on a home, I will negotiate on your behalf for the best terms for you. I can negotiate things like the price, repair costs, timelines, and contingencies.
The legal contract buyer(s) and the seller(s) enter into once the buyer(s) offer has been accepted by the seller(s) is called the Purchase and Sale Agreement. It outlines the terms and conditions of the sale and is signed by both parties. I will review the Purchase and Sale Agreement with you so that you understand all of its terms and will review it for accuracy.
Once you have an agreement you pay Earnest Money. Earnest money is when you agree to deposit a percentage of the home’s asking price into an independent account to demonstrate to the seller(s) that you are serious about buying. In return, the seller(s) agree to take their home off the market. When the sale closes that money is put toward the down payment or closing costs. If the sale fails, your Earnest Money could be at risk. I'm here to help you understand when and why that could happen so that you can avoid those circumstances.
After the Purchase and Sale Agreement is signed, a home inspector is hired to examine the home’s health, safety, and major mechanical systems. If any issues arise from an inspection, the buyer may be able to renegotiate their offer.
After your offer is accepted, the final loan must be approved. During this process, your lender will decide if they are willing to approve your mortgage based on things like your creditworthiness, the title history, and the appraisal of the home you want to buy and your credit. It is of the utmost important that you don't go out and buy something expensive, hold off on buying new furniture till after your home closes.
You will receive a Title Report. This is a report for you and your lender that details the history of the home to ensure there are no legal barriers to purchasing it.
Escrow is an impartial third-party process where documents and funds are deposited by buyers, sellers, and lenders to facilitate the closing of a real estate transaction.
