So you're thinking about buying a new home?  That's great news!  It's an exciting process and I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.  In this section, you can begin to familiarize yourself with the various aspects of the buying process.

First, you need to make sure you are financially ready to buy a home.  Your initial task is to meet with a mortgage lender or bank to decide how much you can afford to spend as well as how much you are comfortable spending.   If you do not already have a lender, I can recommend a few for you to contact.

Next, you'll sit down with me for about an hour to discuss what type of home you want.  I will ask you about the style of home you are looking for, the area you would like to live in, the features you are looking for along with several other questions to help me narrow my search and find you the perfect home.

I will then search the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for any homes within your search criteria.  I will show you the homes that match what you are looking for and if you like them enough, I will set appointments for you to see each one of them in person.

Many times I will find a home for a buyer in the first day I start searching, but sometimes it takes longer and we have to wait until a new listing comes on the market.  I will have access to every new home that comes on the market and even know about many before that, giving you an edge over other buyers.

Once we find a home you like, I will help you decide on a fair price to offer.  Sometimes sellers will not accept a buyer's first offer, so if this situation arises, I will lead you through any negotiating that needs to be done.

After both parties agree on a price, it is the buyer's responsibility to have a home inspection.  Depending on the size of the home, an inspection will usually cost between $150 and $400.  It is highly recommended that you have your contracted home inspected before you close in order to avoid any surprises that could arise after you move in.   It is usually the seller's responsibility to conduct the termite inspection, which is also required for closing.

After finishing the inspections, the next step is to negotiate any repairs that may need to be completed in order for you to purchase the home.  Once again, I will assist you with any negotiations that arise.

During the process, I will take care of all the paperwork and will be in constant communication with you, your lender, the closing attorney, as well as the sellers and their agent.  It typically takes about three to four weeks from when your contract is accepted until closing.  On closing day, you and I, and most likely your lender, will meet with the closing attorney who will have you sign all of the paperwork to transfer the deed into your name.  After that, the home is yours!