First-Time Home Buyer's Guide

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• STEP 4 - Starting the buying process
  You've found the right house, and it's time to make an offer. I will help you through the buying process step-by-step.

Making decisions

• Decide how much you want to pay for the home you've chosen to buy. Consider how long the house has been on the market and how reasonable the asking price is. You should also decide the top amount you'd be willing to pay (but keep that figure to yourself to maintain your ability to negotiate).
  
• Spell out the special conditions of the purchase. Your purchase may be contingent on certain things such as your ability to obtain financing or a favorable inspection report.
  
• After determining who the settlement agent will be, you'll select the dates for closing and for possession. Give yourself plenty of time in the transaction to take care of financing and other paperwork.
  
• Ask for a title search. This is typically the seller's responsibility. The search shows if the title is clear with no claims or liens against the property.

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  Extending the offer
  I will also work closely with you through this important stage of the home buying process. Here's what you'll need to know:
  
  Contract: Your offer is made in the form of a contract to buy and sell property. This contract lists the items to be included in the sale, including such things as appliances, window treatments, etc. It also includes the dates for closing and occupancy. I will help you write the purchase agreement and present it to the sellers.

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  Earnest Money: Your offer is submitted with a financial commitment, often called earnest money. If you buy the house, the earnest money is applied to the down payment or closing costs. If your offer is not accepted, then your earnest money will be returned. However, if after your offer has been accepted, you don't buy the house, the seller has the right to keep the money.
  
  Agreement: The seller will either accept or reject your offer. When a seller rejects the first offer, you may be presented with a counteroffer.
  
  Protecting Yourself
  Two things can add to your peace of mind as you enter the final stages of home buying: home inspections and home warranties. A professional inspection of a home prior to closing can lessen the chance for surprises. Even if you've arranged to have an inspection, you should still plan to take a "walk-through" of the property immediately before the final papers are signed.
  
  A home warranty protects buyers against the failure of major home systems during the warranty period. In most states, offers a Home Protection Plan. This plan will pay to repair or replace items such as heating and cooling units, plumbing and electrical systems and appliances for 13 months after the sale. Ask me for specific information.
  
  HOME BUYING TIP
  Rely on my expertise during the critical final stages of the home buying process. I can answer questions, serve as your representative, and attend to the important details that affect your purchase.
                                

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  STEP 5             

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