Purchasing a home can be fun and exciting, but trying to decide where to begin can be frustrating and stressful. Here are some simple steps you can follow to help you through the home buying process.

STEP 1: Get Pre-Approved
STEP 2: Select an Agent
STEP 3: Drive-By Homes
STEP 4: Select Homes To Tour With Your Agent
STEP 5: Writing an Offer
STEP 6: Contingencies
STEP 7: Get Insurance
STEP 8: Closing
STEP 9: Moving
STEP 10: What's Next?

STEP 1: Get Pre-Approved
Avoid falling in love with homes you can't afford - get pre-approved before you start your search. Speaking with a lender is as easy as making a 15-minute phone call. Email me to receive a list of lenders who have done a great job for my clients.

STEP 2: Select an Agent
Once you've determined your purchasing power and defined a price range, it's time for you to come in and meet with me. At this initial meeting, we'll discuss your needs and wants (including size, location, style, features), the local real estate market, the types of properties currently matching your criteria and the types of reports I can provide you. We will also review the Buyer's Edge No Nonsense Contract and the Buyer's Edge Fee Schedule. This will help you inderstand how I work and how I can help you through the process of purchasing a new place to call home. Contact me to set up a meeting.

STEP 3: Drive-By Homes
This is the perfect time to drive around the areas and see which neighborhoods feel like they could be 'home'. Using the active listings as a guideline, drive-by the listings and see if the locations and lots work for you.

STEP 4: Tour Homes With Your Agent
Once you've identified properties and neighborhoods that you are interested in seeing, I will set up a tour so we can see them together. At each property, I'll provide you with the full listing report, the property tax record and the comparable market analysis of the neighborhood. As we explore each home, I will give you my extensive analysis pointing out positive features, potential problems and issues related to resale.

STEP 5: Writing an Offer
There is a lot of research that goes into writing an offer and it is different with each and every property. I will advise you on negotiating strategy and I'll bargain hard to get you the best price and terms.

STEP 6: Contingencies
Home inspections, termite inspections, appraisals and surveys. I'll make sure protections like these are written into your contract and then I'll walk you through the process of releasing them.

STEP 7: Get Insurance
Speak with the company that provides your car insurance. They are likely to give you a competitive price in order to keep all of your insurance policies at their company.

STEP 8: Closing
Part of closing or settlement is the final walk-through. This is where we inspect the property to make sure that it conveys to you in the same condition as when you decided to write the offer. Reviewing the HUD-1 before settlement is also an important part of the process.

STEP 9: Moving
It's the big day! Don't forget to change your address and change your locks.

STEP 10: What's Next?
Once you have moved into your new home, I hope you will continue to think of me as a resource for you. The Buyer's Edge maintains a list of contractors who may assist you in home repairs, maintenance and remodeling. And my list of lenders can also assist you with issues related to home equity.

Contact me if you are ready to get started.