What to Expect When You’re Purchasing a Home

1. Get Pre-Qualified

Secure your ticket to the world of homeownership by getting pre-qualified with a trusted mortgage lender! Unsure where to start? I’ve got your back! I have several local lenders who I could recommend to you. Let me connect you with a local lender. Remember, pre-qualification isn’t just a step; it’s your key to unlocking buying power!

2. Wants/Needs List

Before the thrilling home search begins, let’s outline your wishlist! Distinguish between the ‘must-haves’ and ‘nice-to-haves.’ Together, we’ll unearth what truly matters to you and your family. Your wishlist will be our compass in this exciting adventure!

3. Allow “Wants” to Be Great Buying Features

House hunting is an exhilarating experience! Let’s embrace it by focusing on your ‘must-haves.’ Remember, paint colors and fences can be transformed! Let’s make your ‘wants’ spectacular buying features that elevate your new home!

4. Write an Offer with Your Realtor

Let’s make your offer stand out! Your mortgage lender can prepare a tailored pre-qualification letter specific to the home you’re eyeing. And hey, ensure that earnest money is prepped for the next exciting steps!

5. Offer Accepted

Congratulations! Once your offer is accepted, it’s time to set the wheels in motion. Your earnest money finds its place at the specified attorney’s office. Next, your Realtor will guide you in the next steps following the contract terms. Here’s a checklist of vital due diligence tasks I recommend to my clients:

• Hire the closing attorney
• Get the home inspected (Home Inspection and Termite Inspection better known as a CL-100)
• Get a homeowner’s insurance quote (I always recommend my clients to get at least 3 quotes from different insurance companies)
• Appraisal (The bank will order this, so you don’t have to worry about that)
• Negotiate repairs with the seller
• Ensure loan commitment
• Other appropriate inspections (If need be such as a Roof Inspection, HVAC Inspection and Septic Tank Inspection)
• Schedule the closing
• Order a survey

6. Utilities

As we near the end of due diligence, let’s gear up for the big move! Coordinate utility activation on the closing day, update your address, and streamline all necessary arrangements for a hassle-free transition!

7. Closing

Anticipate the final closing statement (HUD) containing the heart of your purchase figures. Your closing attorney or lender will guide you through these numbers beforehand. Arm yourself with a state-issued ID and prep for a 1-2 hour closing session at your chosen attorney’s office. Post-closing, witness the official recording of your deed at the courthouse, marking your grand entry into homeownership!