YOUR ROADMAP WHEN BUYING A NEW HOME
A step by step overview to understanding the home buying process
STEP 1: LET'S TALK
Before you start touring homes, it will benefit you to get a solid understanding of what’s ahead and learn how the process will unfold. This will help you understand the importance of each step and what to expect - aiding you to keep emotions low and make logical decisions. I always recommend we have a sit-down or video conference to review the process and help me understand your goals. With a mutual understanding, I can better help you accomplish them.
STEP 2: GET-PRE APPROVED
Getting pre-approved for financing is one of the most important steps to tackle early on. It will help you understand your budget and what homes you should focus your time and energy on. Often, sellers will require buyers to be pre-approved before viewing their home, and it will always be required before submitting an offer. I can connect you with a great lender if you are not already working with one. If buying with cash, you’ll need to get your funds in order and have proof of funds prepared, showing a bank statement or a letter from your banker.
STEP 3: COMPLETING OREGON LAW AGREEMENTS
Oregon law requires you to sign. Starting with the Buyers Representation Agreement (now a requirement for all brokers before showing homes), all the way through disclosures, notices, agreements, etc. These are the Oregon required documents, link to buyers broker agreement, and disclosure pamphlet, additional documents through the transactions.
STEP 4: FINDING YOUR DREAM HOME
You can search for them using your preferred search tools (Zillow, Redfin, realtor, etc.), or use our search tool. I can also reach out in my network to find you off-market opportunities. Together we will look at options and tour the homes you want to see. We will narrow down what your requirements are so you are focused on finding homes that fit your needs and budget.
STEP 5: MAKING OFFERS
Offers are nuanced and every real estate transaction is unique. My negotiation skills and understanding of how to navigate this process will help you make strong offers that put you in a good position to win. Relationships with other agents and my proven track record of success give us a leg up in getting your offer accepted.
STEP 6: PENDING
Once your offer is accepted, we will organize and coordinate inspections, title reports, and property history to help you do your due diligence on the property. My team and I are here to help get answers to your questions and give you the confidence needed in moving forward, or when it’s not right, backing out - within your contingency period.
STEP 7: INSPECTIONS
Once your purchase is pending, it is time to do our due diligence and conduct property inspections. I will help you coordinate with inspectors to find any potential problems with the property and, if needed, contractors to get estimates for needed repairs. We will also work with the title company to get you a clear chain of title so you can rest assured you are getting the property free and clear of encumbrances.
STEP 8: NEGOTIATIONS
After inspections are completed and any needed repairs are estimated, this is the time for negotiations. I advocate on your behalf with my expertise in negotiation. My number one goal is that you are satisfied before moving forward beyond the contingency timelines.
STEP 9: APPRAISAL AND FINAL LOAN APPROVAL
After any negotiations are complete and you are prepared to move forward, I will coordinate with the lender and the listing agent to have the appraisal completed. This will give you and the bank a 3rd party verification of value. Once the appraisal is in and has met value, it's on to the final loan approval and closing! On cash transactions, appraisals are optional and the process can be more streamlined.
STEP 10: SIGNING AND KEYS
Now that financing or loan options have cleared it will be time to sign at the title office. You will review the final closing statement, get your closing funds together and get ready to sign all the final documents with your title agent. After all parties have signed and the documents have been recorded with the county, it is time for keys! I will coordinate with the seller’s agent to get the keys and any last minute details, door codes, alarm info, etc. and get you into your new home.
STEP 11: CONTINUED SERVICE
Consider me your realtor for life. I have an abundance of referrals and connections to provide lasting value long into your home ownership years. When other people in your life need the services of a real estate professional, I hope to be top of mind for you when thinking of someone to help your friends and family.
