Getting Started
Every buyer's search looks a little different, but the process itself follows a clear sequence. Here's how it breaks down when we work together, from your first conversation to the day you get your keys.
01
Before touring a single home, we'll connect you with a lender to understand what you can comfortably afford and get a pre-approval letter in hand. It sharpens your search and makes any offer you write stronger.
02
I'll set up a personalized search around your must-haves and deal-breakers, then schedule showings that fit your calendar — including evenings and weekends.
03
Once you find the one, I'll help you craft a competitive offer backed by local comps and market data, then negotiate terms on your behalf.
04
A licensed inspector examines the property top to bottom. This is your opportunity to request repairs, a credit, or renegotiate before moving forward.
05
Your lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home's value while your loan moves through final underwriting. I'll keep an eye on the timeline so nothing slips.
06
Sign the paperwork, get your keys, and start moving in. I'm with you through the final walkthrough and beyond — even after the sale closes.
Financing Basics
Every buyer's financing situation is different — your lender is the right source for specifics. Here's a plain-language starting point.
A lender's written estimate of what you can borrow, based on your income, credit, and debts. It's different from pre-qualification, which is a rougher estimate.
A deposit made with your offer to show you're serious. It's held in escrow and applied toward your down payment or closing costs at closing.
Fees beyond your down payment — appraisal, title insurance, lender fees, and more — typically a few percent of the purchase price.
Common Questions
It depends on your loan type — conventional loans often start around 3-5% down, while FHA loans can go as low as 3.5%. VA and USDA loans may require none at all for those who qualify. Your lender can walk you through what applies to you.
Working with an agent gives you dedicated representation, local market knowledge, and someone negotiating on your side. Compensation structures vary by transaction — I'll walk you through exactly how it works before we start touring homes together.
From your first showing to closing day, plan for roughly 30-60 days once you're under contract — though the search itself can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months depending on the market and your criteria.
It's possible, and there are a few strategies for it — contingent offers, bridge financing, or rent-back agreements among them. We can talk through which approach fits your situation.
You're not locked in. Depending on your contract, you can typically request repairs, ask for a credit toward closing costs, or in some cases walk away from the deal entirely.