The Buying Process
If it’s your first time buying a home, I’m excited to coach you through each step of the way. If it’s your fifth time purchasing, I’m equally thrilled to review the process to finding you the perfect fit.
Let’s Connect
Our first meeting will us the chance to get to know one another and discuss your goals. Whether we are meeting in person or remotely, this is an opportunity to talk about the buying process so that you feel educated to make the best decisions based on your needs.
Let’s find you a lender
If you haven’t identified a financing source, I’ll put you in touch with local, credible lending institutions. This will allow us to narrow down your search for the perfect property while staying within a comfortable budget.
Let’s find you a new backyard
It’s time for the fun part. Once a budget is set, we will start visiting properties. Throughout the process, I am accessible for in-person meetings, phone calls and video chats to answer questions and introduce you to new properties. But, while a lot can be accomplished with virtual tours and video chats, I always encourage people to visit a property they are seriously considering purchasing to ensure that it is a good fit for you both physically and emotionally.
Finding The One
We’ve found it! I’ll draw up a contract and other documents. From here, we’ll enter a negotiation phase. If our contract is accepted, a timeline is set. For your convenience, everything can be accomplished using electronic signing documents. Even if we are not meeting in person, I am always available for phone calls or video chats. Because this is one of the biggest financial decisions of your life, my job is to make sure you have all of the information you need to make your best decisions.
Time for an inspection
I’ll schedule a time for you, me and the inspector to walk the property and make requests for repairs. An inspection notice will be drawn up outlining all the items you would like fixed or how the price may be reduced to compensate for these repairs. This acts as the second negotiation phase and another opportunity for us to really get to know the properties in’s and out’s.
Working with the lender
I’ll deliver our paperwork to the lender and will be in constant communication with them throughout the entire process. The lender will schedule an appraisal of the property, which, in this current market, takes three to six weeks to complete. If the appraisal comes in under the listing price, we’ll try to negotiate the final price down. Once the appraisal is settled, it’s normally smooth sailing to the closing table.
Working with the title company
I’ll ensure the title company issues a clear “title commitment,” meaning, the property is free of liens and clouds. The title company is also where we will sign our closing documents, after signing the documents the title company delivers our closing packet to the court house for recording. After the documents are recorded, you are legal home owners!
A toast
Once the closing documents are signed and you have the keys to your new home, ownership is official. This is my
favorite part because watching the reactions of my clients is unforgettable, and that means champagne is in order!
After You’re Settled In
My service doesn’t end at the closing table. I will answer any follow-up questions a day or a year later. Buying a home is a long-term investment, and I’ll be there in the long term to support you.
Testimonial
“Purchasing a home can be a daunting task, but with Kate’s help, everything ran smoothly. She helped me find the perfect house for me and my lifestyle!” Allison