Every transaction is different, because of the distinct needs of each buyer and seller, and the unique features of each property. Therefore, the home buying process is not black and white. There are many different aspects to consider when you want to make a winning offer for the home of your dreams. We take the buying process as serious as our clients do and we have a passion for finding the right house for you. Our core values of trust, experience and service takes the guesswork out of the buying process.
How to Buy a Home
Find an Agent
Get Pre-Qualified
Visit Properties
Negotiate
Review Contract & Disclosure Package
Submit Formal Offer
Seller Approves the Purchase
Final Walk-Through with Agent
Closing of Escrow
Why Get Pre-Approved?
The lender will determine your purchasing power, which gives you a guideline as to what you can afford before you begin the process.
Knowing what your down payment and financing options are will guide you in your decision on the home you choose. Your agent can refer you to a good lender if you don’t have one.
What is an underwriter?
An underwriter is a financial expert who takes a look at your finances and assesses how much risk a lender will take on if they decide to give you a loan. More specifically, underwriters evaluate your credit history, assets, the size of the loan you request and how well they anticipate that you can pay back your loan.
What is Escrow?
Escrow is the period of time between your offer being accepted and closing escrow. The escrow officer is an unbiased liaison between the seller, buyer, agents, and lender (if applicable) and holds the buyer’s deposit of funds, oversees signatures of documents, receives the funds from the lender, files with the County Recorder to record the deed, and releases the funds to the seller after the sale is recorded.
What is an EMD?
To prove the buyer's offer to purchase the property is made in good faith, the buyer makes an earnest money deposit (EMD). Earnest money is refundable, it just depends on the circumstances. If you tell the seller that you are backing out of the home buying process before certain deadlines, then there should be no issue refunding the earnest money to you. The same applies if you didn't break any contract rules.