Buying a home can be a long and complex process. We take a methodical appproach when representing buyers, avoiding common pitfalls while protecting you as the purchaser. As you prepare for this important event, please consider the following:

Preparing:

Use a buyer's agent.
Although allowed by Northwest MLS regulations, be aware that dual agency protects the home seller, NOT the home buyer! Protect yourself by using an independent agent that will look out for your best interests.

Engage a seasoned and professional loan officer.
Find a loan lender with extensive experience, a thorough knowledge of the industry, and has familiarity with multiple loan vehicles.

Get pre-approved on a loan that's right for you.
This helps you to avoid spending time searching for homes outside of your price range as well as include homes that you may not have thought you could afford.

Minimize debt levels.
Existing debt will have a direct impact on the loan you may qualify for as well as your lifestyle after you purchase. Keep close tabs on the amount of debt you're carrying and strive to reduce it to the full extent possible.

Clear your schedule.
Be prepared to respond to new listings and/or price changes accordingly. The market and seller circumstances may change quickly, and the more available you are to react the better.

Plan your move.
If you are currently renting or leasing, when does your contract expire? What are your obligations if you move before or after that date? Do you have temporary housing arrangements available? The more flexibility you have in your timing the better.

Prepare a plan for agent communication.
When do you want to begin your search? What does your timeline look like? Have you registered for the Home Buyer's Scouting Report for timely email alerts in your target area and price? How many homes do you expect to look at before purchasing?

Searching:

Stick to your price range and location.
With thousands of homes available at any one time, it's important to avoid distractions that will cost you time and money (and could potentially lead you to issues you hadn't prepared for). Stay within the price range and locations you've already researched, you'll be glad you did.

Educate yourself.
The internet is filled with resources related to home buying, the search process, and home ownership in general. Perform searches at popular search engines using common terminology to find out more.

Leverage technology.
Why manually wade through thousands of listings when you can automate the process, focusing on only those particular areas and price ranges you're interested in?

Buying:

Submit an offer that you would accept if you were the home owner.
In today's market, sales prices typically end up being 2% of the asking price. Set your expectations accordingly.

Define and set aside earnest money.
This is one of the strongest indicators as to the home buyer's level of sincerity. The higher the amount, usually the more commited the buyer is to the offer.

Hire a home inspector.
There may be no better way to avoid purchasing a home with hidden problems than to hire an inspector. We're so committed to this that we actually REQUIRE it of all of our buyers. For more information, contact a licensed and reputable home inspector.

Review ROA covenants and restrictions.
This will ensure you understand community expectations and limitations before you make the move.

Get everything in writing.
Be specific when submitting an offer as to what you'd like included in the sale. Items such as a refridgerator, washer and dryer, and hot tub may be negotiated into the contract. If you're interested in it, be sure to capture it in writing.

Use contingencies appropriately.
How much time do you need for inspection? How about financing? What about the sale of your current home? Balance your protection as a buyer with the strength of your offer.

Closing:

Understand your timeline.
Escrow may be as long or short as defined and agreed upon. Be sure you prepare for this part of the process by being available for signings, etc.

Plan for move in.
Keys are transferred only after escrow confirms title has transferred, usually late in the afternoon of your target close date. The home may then be entered for the first time after 9:00pm unless otherwise agreed upon with the previous owners.

Enjoy your new home!
After months of hard work, you can finally sit back, relax and celebrate. Congratulations!