Buying a home

How buying with me works, step by step

1. 1

   We talk first

   What you need in a home, where, your budget and your timing. If you are selling too, we plan both moves together.

2. 2

   Get pre-approved

   A lender's pre-approval tells you what you can borrow and shows sellers you are ready. If you do not have a lender yet, I can suggest a few.

3. 3

   Our agreement, in writing

   Before we tour homes together you will sign a written buyer representation agreement. It is now standard practice and California law sets rules for it. I walk you through ours line by line, including how my compensation works.

4. 4

   Finding the one

   I watch the market for homes that fit, set up showings, take you to open houses, and tell you plainly what I see in each house, the good and the bad.

5. 5

   Writing a strong offer

   Price is only part of it. The deposit, the contingencies, the timing and how complete and well documented your offer is can decide which offer wins. I help you write one that is strong and still protects you.

6. 6

   Inspections and due diligence

   We review the seller's disclosures and reports, order the inspections you want, and make sure you understand what you are buying before your contingencies are removed.

7. 7

   Escrow to keys

   I track the appraisal, the loan approval and every deadline, do a final walk-through with you, and stay with you until the deed is recorded and the keys are yours.