To-Do List for Home Buyers


Ready to buy a home?  Purchasing a home is one of the biggest investments a person will make, so doing your homework will help make it go as quickly and smoothly as possible.  When you are ready to begin the process, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

 

1—Get prequalified.  Talk to your lender to determine the amount you feel comfortable spending on a home.  Ask your lender about mortgage rates, down payment requirements and insurance requirements.

It is a good idea to get a Good Faith Estimate of closing costs for the mortgage loan you will be using.

 

2—Find a realtor—that’s me!  Licensed realtors have professional knowledge and skills to help make this process easier.  Whether you have a property in mind or you are just getting started, a realtor can help.

Call, text (276-762-9489) or email (sarah@sarahsawyers.com) so that I can help you!

 

3—Meet with me to discuss your budget, location and home requirements.

Signing a Buyer’s Agency Agreement at this time helps define the relationship between you and your realtor.   It lists expectations and requirements.

 

4—Once you find your home, discuss your options with me.   Decide on the terms and I will write a contract, which you will sign.  These terms include everything from home inspections to appliances.

 

5—Once signed, the contract is submitted to the owner of the property you wish to purchase.  Some negotiation may be involved, and once all terms are agreed upon, both owner and buyer sign it.

At this point, the buyer should plan to pay some earnest money, which is simply a statement of your intent to purchase the property.  It is held in an escrow account until closing, at which time it is used to help pay closing costs or part of the purchase price of the home, depending on the situation.   The only way a buyer will lose earnest money is if all terms of the contract are met and he or she decides not to purchase the property.

 

6— Once everyone signs the contract, listing purchase price, you will take a copy of the contract to your lender to get the loan process started.

 

7—Your lender will have some specific requirements about appraisals, etc.  Make sure you are aware of them.

8—Once your lender’s requirements have been met, simply wait until their process is finished.  Then you will complete the purchase process through the closing.