Top brokers and agents prioritize their clients. They ask good questions and actively listen to understand a client’s needs and desires. They educate clients on market conditions, advise on how to be a qualified and attractive buyer, and work to maximize returns. Experienced agents build strong relationships within the community, collaborate well with other professionals, and work for reputable brokerages. Trust, chemistry, and proven credentials are essential. While experience is valuable, a great agent anticipates and manages risks effectively. Her/his success is reflected in referrals and repeat business.
Before you begin your home search, understanding your buying power is crucial. If you don’t already have a lender, your agent can recommend trusted professionals. A lender will assess your financial situation, credit, and income to provide a pre-approval, helping you determine your price range. A pre-approval letter is required for making an offer. An approval letter (removing pre-approval contingencies) strengthens your offer, especially in a competitive market. Just like with a trusted agent, having a local lender with a good reputation can make you more appealing to sellers. The best lenders will also help you understand your comfort level, not just what the numbers say you can afford.
Before starting your search, your agent will take the time to understand your needs and priorities. A good agent doesn’t rush this step. Once you have a clear idea of the market and what you’re looking for, your agent will set up a search and share new listings with you that match your criteria. In the beginning, it’s an educational process for both of you. Over time, a great agent will know your needs as well as you do. When a home catches your eye, your agent will schedule a showing, whether it’s one home or a few to visit.
When you’re ready to make an offer, your agent will guide you in crafting the strongest bid for that specific property. Together, you’ll discuss price, contingencies, any special conditions, and how to minimize risks. Once submitted, the seller can accept, reject, or counter your offer. Until both parties sign the offer, either side can move in any direction.
Once your offer is accepted, you’re officially under contract. The home is pending, and while it’s not yet final, it can’t be sold to anyone else. The next steps include making your earnest money deposit and finalizing your mortgage with your lender. Your agent will open escrow to keep the process on track.
During the due diligence period, your agent will help identify everything that needs to be done. A licensed home inspector will evaluate the home’s condition, checking for issues like structural problems, leaks, and suspected mold. If problems arise, your agent will help you negotiate repairs or credits. You may need to consult other experts during this time, like a roofer, plumber, city/county planner, insurance company. You’ll also receive a title report outlining easements, restrictions, or liens on the property.
If you’re purchasing with a loan, your lender will arrange for a professional appraisal to determine the home’s market value. If the appraisal comes in lower than expected, you may have the option to renegotiate the purchase price or, in some cases, terminate the contract. Alternatively, if the seller is unwilling to renegotiate, you can choose to proceed with the purchase at the original price.
Once due diligence is complete, you’ll conduct a final walkthrough of the home before closing. This ensures that all agreed-upon repairs are finished and that the home is in the same or better condition than when you made the offer. It’s your last chance to address any issues before closing.
It’s time to celebrate! Your lender will provide a final closing disclosure, outlining the loan terms, monthly payments, taxes, and other costs. After signing all necessary paperwork and having your funds delivered to the title company, your loan will be funded and recorded with the county. You’ll then receive the keys to your new home!
Whether you’re moving in a week or a few months, here are some practical steps to help keep things organized:
By following this checklist, you’ll stay on track and reduce the stress of your move. Let us know if you’d like further tips or assistance as you get ready for the big day!
