Be an Expert Homebuyer
01. Find an Agent
When searching for a home, it's important to work with a REALTOR® who is an expert in Austin real estate and constantly has their pulse on the local market—especially in today's economy. We have had the great fortune to work with 100+ clients, it would be our absolute pleasure to work with you.
02. Get Pre-Qualified
Before beginning your search, your first step is to get pre-approved for a mortgage loan (unless you will be paying the full price of your home in cash). I can recommend local mortgage brokers. Based on your income and credit history, the mortgage broker will determine how much a bank will lend you, which will help determine the price range for your search.
03. Visit Properties
Now is the time to consider your ideal home’s location and amenities. You will attend viewings and open houses spanning a range of areas and property types. Additionally, I can keep you informed of exclusive Coming Soon and Off-Market properties as they hit the market. Access may vary based on location & price.
04. Submit Offer
Once you identify a home you like, you can put in an offer, which is an agreement to pay a certain price for the home. Sellers typically require proof of funds and/or a Pre Approval Letter from a Lender to consider an offer. Note: if your offer is lower than the list price or with terms not acceptable to the seller, the seller can return with a counter-offer price or acceptable terms, which you can accept, reject, or make another counter offer. I will provide advice throughout.
05. Offer Accepted & Sent to Title
Once the seller accepts your offer, you have 3 days to deliver the earnest money and option fee to the title company/escrow agent. These can be submitted together.
06. Home Inspections
It is the buyer’s duty to select all desired inspections and determine the overall condition of the property within the agreed timeline and contractual contingencies. You will also review the disclosures and preliminary title report. You may approve or negotiate credits/repairs. Prior to closing, remember to schedule a final walk-thru of the property to verify property is still in acceptable condition and any negotiated repairs were done.
09. Closing
Once all the conditions of the contract have been satisfied, the closing is held. The closing documents are signed, payment is exchanged, and you receive the keys to your new home!
07. Loan & Appraisal
Organize an appraisal with your bank. Your completed mortgage application with all supporting documentation should be submitted to your chosen lender upon receipt of the fully signed Purchase Agreement. The bank then issues loan approval. Consequently, you'll wire the closing funds with the homeowner’s insurance in place, and then the loan will be funded with clearance to close.
08. Final Walk Through
A final walkthrough of the property is scheduled and completed just before closing. The walkthrough confirms that no damage has been done to the home since the time of inspection and that the major systems and appliances are in working order.
