The home buying process

The real estate buying process can be daunting and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Much of the stress experienced is due to a lack of preparation, specifically, a general lack of clarity of the steps and sequence of steps to be taken. Don’t forget: this is an exercise that most people rarely do throughout their lives. The following is an overview of how to best prepare for what is to come.

Search Professionals

The first thing you should do is assemble your team. For the basics, you’ll need a loan officer, escrow agent, home inspector, and real estate agent. A reliable real estate agent will have contacts with each of the first.

Determine your purchasing power

Once you’ve assembled your team, schedule a meeting with your loan officer and get pre-qualified. This important step will help you find out exactly what dollar amount you qualify for and give you an idea of ​​what you can afford.

Identify your ideal location

Now that you know what you can spend and have determined what want To spend, you can start looking for a place where houses are being sold within your target price range. One good thing you can do is drive physically and get intimately acquainted with your areas of interest.

Also, if you haven’t already, you need to fine tune and get familiar with the details. Ask yourself: How many square feet? How many bedrooms and bathrooms? Do I want a garage, pool and spa? What about the backyard? Where do I want my children to go to school? Once you have your wish list, organize it in order of priority. Now you’re ready to hit the road and locate a prospect.

Purchasing process

Suppose we have identified your dream home and your offer has been accepted. Keep in mind that every real estate transaction is unique and presents its own challenges – there will always be variables and unforeseen issues to work out. However, there are several important steps here that you will need to follow. The order may vary:

Negotiate and execute purchase contract.
Deliver the earnest money deposit and contract to the title company and open the escrow
Schedule a home and termite inspection (make sure all utilities are turned on)
Check with your insurance broker for hazard insurance
Read the seller’s disclosure form (SPDS) if provided
Obtain and read a copy of the CC&R from the title company, if applicable
Submit home and termite inspection to seller and negotiate repair request, if applicable
Obtain a copy of the lender’s appraisal and confirm the status of the loan
Schedule the final tour
Verify and sign the pre-audit (HUD 1) of the title company
Get a cashier’s check (or wire transfer) to bring to closing
Sign loan documents with the title company
Call and activate public services in your name
Get J keys

congratulations

You now own your individual part of the world. Buying a home is always an emotional experience, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. The more prepared and better you understand the process, the easier and more exciting it will be.