More Buyer Info

Things to think about before you go Shopping? for a home:

  • What type of down payment will you have?
  • What are you pre-approved to buy?
  • What type of loan will you be selecting?
  • What are the three most important aspects when selecting a home? (Schools, Return on Investment, Location etc)
  • What are your wants and what are your needs?

I look forward to working with you to find the home of your dreams!

Expand the topics below to view more information about each:

Home selection and showing...

There are many ways to search for properties. At any given point during the day, homes are constantly coming on the market. These homes, listed through the Multiple Listing Service, are disseminated to all members of the MLS. Amy has daily and immediate access to all of the newest properties on the market. Many of the web sites on the internet are filled with dated and inaccurate information, so internet searching alone for a home will not typically result in the finding of your dream home.
Other ways to locate a home is on a driving tour, builder's model or open houses.
WITH ALL ALTERNATIVE SOURCES, PLEASE BE SURE TO INCLUDE ME. AT THE VERY LEAST, TELL THE OTHER PARTY THAT YOU HAVE AN AGENT AND GIVE THEM AMY’S NAME AND CARD. THIS WILL ENSURE THAT AMY WILL BE ABLE TO REPRESENT YOU AND NEGOTIATE FOR YOUR BEST INTERESTS.
Together you and Amy will decide the best time to view homes, and the number of homes to see.

A few tips for house hunting...

1. Give Amy enough time to schedule properties to view. Some sellers have showing restrictions.
2. Be on time, irritating sellers' can cost you a home.
3. Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to take on and off.
4. Respect the sellers' home, it could be yours in the future.
5. Let me know what you like and dislike. It helps me do a better job.
6. Bring your checkbook so you are ready to make an offer.
7. Don't get stressed about buying a home, it should be fun.
8. If you go into an open house, tell the agent that you are working with Amy and give out one of Amy’s cards.
9. If you visit a builder or builder's model, do not sign in. Amy will be unable to negotiate on your behalf should you become registered with the builder. When in doubt, give them Amy’s card and set an appointment to come back to the model with Amy to meet with the builder.
10. Remember, loyalty pays off for both of us! I represent YOU!

The Home Buying Process Typical Timeline...

Selecting HomesTimeless
Viewng HomesTimeless
The ContractTimeless
Earnest Moneywith contract, cashed on acceptance
Home Insepction7-10 business days
Mortgage Application2 busienss days, 20 for approval
Final Walkthrough24-48 hours or day of closing
Closing30-60 days from acceptance of contract
Possession/MovingDay of closing or other

Preparing the Offer to Purchase...

1. Amy will complete a comparative market analysis.
2. Explain and complete an offer to purchase.
3. An earnest money check should accompany all offers, and will be cashed upon acceptance. This money is applied towards the down payment.
4. Amy will contact the seller's agent and present your offer.
5. Once all parties have reached an agreement, I will get your final approval on the contact and deliver it to the seller's agent for their final signatures or initials.
6. Amy will give you two copies of the contract, one at time of signing, and one via attachment on email that will be more clear and easy to read. Amy will also forward a copy to your lender at their request.
7. Once you have spoken to a home inspector and set a time and date, let Amy know so that the appointment can be confirmed with the Seller and other agent.
8. Be sure to apply for a loan within 7 days of acceptance.
9. Remember to transfer funds for the earnest money.
10. Relax. Your home inspector, lender, and Amy will keep you informed of anything that you need to do.

Closing Checklist...

1. One year pre-paid homeowners policy commencing on the closing date.
2. Be sure that you have called all utilities and transferred them into your name.
3. Complete final walk-thru after home is vacant to make sure all personal property that is to remain is there and that the home is in the same condition as the date of contract signing.
4. Bring a cashiers check at closing for the balance of the funds necessary to close. Typically, this sum is not available until the day before closing. If you would like, you can use to good faith estimate as a guideline and the title company will give you money back at the closing. Make the check payable to yourself.
5. Bring a driver's license or picture I.D. to closing to prove who you are.
6. If you are closing without your spouse or are having Amy be your Power of Attorney, make sure the POA has been notarized, signed and FedEx’d with tracking numbers to Amy several days before closing. The original MUST be presented to the closing agent at the closing.
7. Your attorney will explain all the documents that you are signing and ensure that you receive a copy.
8. Your attorney will make sure your deed is recorded and will send you a copy in approximately two weeks.
9. Amy strongly recommends purchasing Title Insurance at the time of closing. This title insurance is a one time payment and protects the title of the home you are investing in. It safeguards your downpayment and all equity you may grow in the home from any type of title issues that could be unknown to you and the title company.
10. ENJOY YOUR NEW HOME!!!!!!!