How to Buy a Home in Four Simple Steps
Step One: Get Pre-Approved
- You need to know how much home you can afford and what kind of down-payment savings you need to have to make an offer.
- Remember: your competition will most certainly be pre-approved--and in today's market, you must have that competitive advantage.
- To a seller, there is little difference between a pre-approval and a cash buyer. If cash is king, then pre-approval is queen.
- Give your pre-approval letter to your broker so it can be uploaded into your file.
Step Two: Find a Broker
- Find a seasoned real estate broker.
- Ask them how long they've been in the business, how many clients they've represented and how established they are in the community.
- Remember: you will pay for a realtor even if you don't use one. A buyer's agent's commission generally comes from the sale of the house--not your pocket--so doesn't it make sense to have representation in the biggest purchase of your life?
Step Three: Start Touring Homes
- Start your search online and narrow down your criteria. Get clear on all the features you are looking for and consider your must-haves, could-haves and nice-to-haves.
- Pick your Top 10 Favorites (so exciting!) and ask your broker to schedule a private tour to see them.
- Let the fun begin!
Step Four: Make an Offer
- Once you have selected your home, your broker will make an offer to the sellers. There may be some back and forth (or there may not be) to find terms agreeable for both buyer and seller.
- Once your offer is accepted, you will be asked to give an earnest money deposit to show the sellers you are serious in the purchase of their home.
- You will need to schedule a home inspection from a reputable home inspection company.
- Your lender will ask you to obtain a homeowner's policy from your insurance agent and you will also have to pay for an appraisal. If paying cash, it is HIGHLY recommended that you still obtain homeowner's insurance and an appraisal.
- Your broker will start title work, which is done to ensure that the title is free from any liens or encumbrances against the property when it is passed on from Seller to Buyer. The process takes about 30 to 45 days to complete.
- Once your mortgage is approved through your lender's underwriter and/or the title report comes back as "clear", all parties close the transaction. This can be done at the title company, broker's office, etc.
What Our Clients Say
The market is insane right now and buying a house is more stressful than ever. I've been a loan advisor for 10 years and having a realtor who knows what they are doing and works with me to ensure we can get the loan done as smoothly and easily as possible for the client is a dream come true! If you are looking to buy or sell a home, look no further! You will not be …
-Erin L., Colleague
Miriam is an absolute gem! We were fortunate enough to experience both side as buyers and sellers. Miriam asked what we were looking for and what we wanted to accomplish, put a plan in place, and did not disappoint! We bought exactly what we were looking for as well as sold our prior home to a buyer in a sale that benefitted both parties! I cannot recommend Miriam enough. …
-Daniel B., Client
Miriam has done an excellent job in helping us find the perfect house for us! She is very knowledge and personable. Miriam was very responsive with all questioned asked. She made our house buying experience enjoyable. I would highly recommend!
-Amber B., Client
Miriam is a very cordial person, very professional. She made me feel at ease during the selling process. I'd recommend her services to anyone wanting a professional Realtor.
-Scott S., Client
Miriam is such a joy to work with!! She always make sure to get clients in touch with the best fit for them and doesn’t overextend herself. She referred me an investor client 3 years ago and that has blossomed into an excellent connection. Her dedication to delivering the best real estate buying or selling experience is unparalleled. Don’t hesitate to reach out to her …
-Derrick B., Colleague
