Buying a house is not as simple as “I want it, let’s make an offer!” It takes time and, sometimes, disappointment, but these steps can help make the process a bit easier and help you make the best decisions possible.

Start Your Research

You have likely already started the search via websites, this is the easiest place to begin. Make a note of homes and features you like.  This will help you once we start the “viewing” process.

Determine How Much House You Can Afford

Once you have selected a lender, you will know how much buying power you have. It is important to know how much you can spend before we go out to shop. 

Obtaining pre-approved letter, which involves providing your financial documents (W-2 statements, paycheck stubs, bank account statements, etc.) is necessary to submit an offer. I can provide you the names and contact information for a few experienced, responsive mortgage bankers who can assist you.

Find the Right Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent is an important partner when buying or selling a home. Ellen Coleman and The Coleman Realty Team can provide you with helpful information on homes and neighborhoods. Our expertise of the home buying process, negotiating skills, and familiarity with the area you want to live in can be extremely valuable, and does not cost you anything. Our brokerage is compensated from the commission paid by the seller of the house.

Shop for Your Home and Make an Offer

You will see a lot of houses!  It can be hard to remember everything about each one, so you will want to take notes, pictures and even video to help you remember each one.

Get a Home Inspection

My team will help you arrange a home inspection within a few days after your offer is accepted.  I will suggest a professional Home Inspector that I trust. This contingency, written in the contract, protects you by giving you an opportunity to request repairs or withdraw if there are significant issues. 

Before the sale closes, you will have a walk-through of the house, which gives you the opportunity to confirm that any agreed-upon repairs have been made.

Home Appraisal 

Lenders will arrange for the home to be appraised and provide an independent estimate of the value of the house you are buying. The appraiser is not directly associated with the lender. 

Coordinate the Paperwork

As you can imagine, there is a lot of paperwork involved in buying a house. The title company will handle the paperwork, prepare a transfer of deed, and ensure that you obtain a clear title to the property. 

Close the Sale

At closing you will sign the paperwork required to complete the purchase, including your loan documents.  After closing, you are ready to move into your new home!