Buyer's Guide
Your local Real Estate Expert
Hi, I'm Colleen
and I believe in home.
Home is more than just a physical space. It’s where you’ve created countless memories, shared moments with loved ones, and where you feel most comfortable.
When it comes time to buy a new home and begin a new chapter, the process can oftentimes feel overwhelming. Buying a home can be an emotional journey, and it’s understandable to feel apprehensive.
Rest assured that together, we can help you navigate the process with ease. We’ll outline the process and create a plan together, so you don’t have to do any of the heavy lifting.
From setting a budget, to finding the right neighborhood, negotiating the best terms for you & creating a smooth close, this booklet will be your guide.
WHY HIRE A BUYERS AGENT?
- Market Insight & Strategy
Leverage expert market knowledge to identify value, assess trends, and position yourself for informed decisions. - Exclusive Access to Off-Market Properties
Gain entry to “quietly listed” homes, reducing competition and offering unique opportunities. - Skilled Negotiation
Stand out with offers crafted by a dedicated negotiator advocating for your best interests. - Access to Trusted Resources
Tap into a network of reputable inspectors, lenders, and professionals to streamline your process. - Guidance Through Complexities
Navigate contracts, disclosures, and timelines with confidence, ensuring your investment is protected. - Focused Representation
Enjoy personalized service with a professional committed solely to your goals and vision.
The
Buyer
Timeline
SETTING A SMART HOME-BUYING BUDGET
Budget Wisely:
Aim for a mortgage payment within one-third of your take-home pay, while considering your unique financial situation and goals.
Early Career Flexibility:
If you’re starting out with strong income growth potential, a slightly higher payment may align with your future goals.
Stable or Fixed Income:
For those nearing retirement or on a fixed income, stay comfortably within budget to avoid financial strain.
Lifestyle Alignment:
Factor in plans like travel, family, or other investments to ensure your mortgage supports, not limits, your lifestyle.
Plan for Emergencies:
Leave room for unexpected expenses or future changes by budgeting below your maximum comfort level.
A realistic, future-focused budget ensures you enjoy your home while staying financially secure.
BUYER AGENCY
The Buyer Agency Agreement is a document that formalizes our working relationship and outlines my role as your dedicated representative in the home-buying process.
Key Benefits for You
Exclusive Representation: I work solely for your best interests—advocating, negotiating, and guiding you to secure the best deal.
Access to Expertise: You’ll benefit from my market knowledge, resources, and personalized advice tailored to your goals.
Transparency: This agreement ensures clarity in expectations, services, and how I will assist you throughout the process. By law, a buyer agency agreement must be signed before we can tour properties together.
What It Includes
Scope of Services: Details the professional services I’ll provide, from home searches to closing.
Time Frame: Defines the duration of our agreement.
Compensation: Explains how my fee is typically covered through seller-paid commissions, ensuring no surprises for you.
Why It’s Important
It protects your interests by securing me as your advocate in every step of the transaction.
It formalizes a professional partnership, ensuring we’re aligned in working toward your homeownership goals.
By signing this agreement, you gain a trusted ally dedicated to making your home-buying journey seamless and successful.
IS IT POSSIBLE FOR A BUYER TO
PURCHASE A HOME WITHOUT REPRESENTATIOn?
UNREPRESENTED CONSUMERS ACCOUNT
FOR 70% OF ALL REAL ESTATE LAWSUITS.
Are you required to use a real estate agent to purchase a home? No. But you’re also not required to have a professional cut your hair, so why do you pay someone to do that…?
The answer is that you may not be thrilled with the results… Buying a home is often one of the largest financial investments you’ll make in your lifetime. A lot can go wrong and unfortunately, it can go REALLY wrong, if you don’t know what you’re doing.
In addition, if you choose to work directly with the listing agent instead of having your own representation, you’re working with someone who is legally obligated to secure the highest price and best terms for the seller, not for you. This can create a conflict of interest and may leave you without critical advocacy in a competitive market.
MEET WITH YOUR LENDER
Getting Pre-Approved: The Next Step
Now that you’re starting a home search, the next step is to connect with a lender. Every buyer needs a pre-approval before starting to tour homes. For higher-priced properties, especially in the luxury market, listing agents may also require proof of funds before scheduling showings. This helps ensure sellers are preparing their homes only for buyers who are truly ready to move forward.
Your pre-approval letter will accompany any offer we make, giving sellers confidence that you’re qualified to secure financing for their property. Once you have your pre-approval, take a moment to revisit your ‘must-have’ list to confirm that these features align with your approved price range.
A LIST OF QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK YOUR LENDER:
1.Are both fixed rate and adjustable rate mortgages available?
2. What is the interest rate?
3. What is the total origination charge?
4. How long can you look into financing at the current interest rate?
5. What are the other fees the lender could charge in conjunction to the loan?
6. Are funds for a second mortgage available?
7. On adjustable loans: how often will the interest rate adjust? Is there a maximum change on each rate change? How often will the monthly payment adjust? Is there a ceiling on payment adjustments? Can the term of the loan be extended
8. Is there a pre-payment penalty clause? This involves extra charges for paying off the loan before maturity
9. What is the grace period? How late can a monthly payment be made before a late charge is assessed. What will happen if a payment is missed?
10. If you sell your house, will the new buyer be able to assume your mortgage at the same rate?
11. Do you have to pay points to get your new mortgage?
12. Will the lender require mortgage insurance?
ADVANTAGES OF BUYING A HOME VS RENTING
Buying a home offers unique benefits that renting simply can’t match:
Build Equity
With each mortgage payment, you’re investing in your future, building equity instead of paying off your landlord’s property.
Stability
Owning your home means no surprise rent hikes or lease non-renewals—you’re in control.
Tax Benefits
Homeownership can lower your tax burden through deductions for mortgage interest and property taxes.
Personalization
Make your space truly yours—paint the walls, renovate, or design it to fit your lifestyle without asking permission.
Long-Term Financial Gain
Homes often appreciate in value, providing a solid return on investment when it’s time to sell.
Community Connection
Homeownership often fosters stronger connections with neighbors and a sense of belonging in your community.
You're
Under
Contract
FINAL WALK THROUGH
The final walkthrough is a critical step to ensure the property is in the agreed- upon condition before closing. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Timing & Purpose
When: 24–48 hours before closing.
Why: Confirm the property’s condition, verify repairs, and ensure contingencies are met.
2. What to Check
Property Condition: Look for new damage and confirm repairs are complete.
Included Items: Verify all agreed-upon items (appliances, fixtures, etc.) are present and working.
Systems & Utilities: Test HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and ensure utilities are on.
3. Walkthrough Checklist
Inspect walls, floors, and ceilings for damage.
Test windows, doors, and appliances.
Check for leaks under sinks and around toilets.
Verify light fixtures, outlets, and outdoor areas are in good condition.
4. Document Issues
Take photos and note if discrepancies arise. Share concerns with your realtor promptly.
5. Realtor Support
Ask questions and rely on your realtor for guidance if any issues come up.
CONCLUSION
The final walkthrough ensures your new home is ready for you. Be thorough, take your time, and address concerns—it’s the final step before making this house your home!
CLOSING DAY
Closing Day: The Big Day!
Congratulations—closing day is here! This is the day when all the pieces come together, and you officially become the owner of your new home. On closing day, you’ll sign a series of documents to finalize the sale, including mortgage papers, if you’re financing the purchase. Be sure to bring a government-issued ID and any remaining funds required for closing; your lender or the title company will provide instructions on how to handle these details.
Once the paperwork is complete and everything is verified, you’ll receive the keys to your new home. It’s an exciting moment and a huge accomplishment! I’ll be there to support you throughout the process, ensuring everything goes smoothly, so you can focus on enjoying your new beginning.
Good news! Once it’s funded we can release the key to your new home to you!
MY COMMITMEnT
TO YOU
I understand that buying or selling a home is about more than just numbers—it’s about reaching your goals with confidence. While there may be some bumps along the way, my focus is on helping you navigate any delays or roadblocks that might arise. You can count on my weekly check-ins, where I bring my trademark “tell it like it is” honesty and creative problem-solving skills to keep things on track and moving smoothly toward closing day. My goal is to make this experience as seamless and successful as possible for you!
