JMV Realtors | Woodlands & Montgomery Real Estate

Buyer Guide

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO NAVIGATE THE HOME BUYING PROCESS AND CLOSE ON YOUR DREAM HOME.

main

Step 01

GETTING Pre-approved

One of the biggest mistakes first time home buyers make is starting their home search without connecting with a lender first. Here’s why, you might find the perfect home and then face major disappointment when you find out you do not qualify to buy it. This can be a huge let down and a major waste of your time. Connecting with an experienced lender will not only help you discover what you qualify for but they will also make sure you do not have any red flags that would stop you from getting a home before you invest your nights and weekends house hunting.

WHAT THINGS WILL YOUR LENDER LIKELY ASK FOR?

There are many things your lender will review to help you get pre-approved for your next home. Here’s a couple things they may ask for.

  • Bank Statements
  • Tax Returns
  • Pay Stubs
  • Credit Report
  • Monthly Debts
main

Step 02

House Hunting

  • I will get you set up on our online search portal. You will get daily notifications with properties that fit your search criteria.
  • I will schedule showings for all homes you have interest in viewing. We will attend all private showings with you and if you see a property you have interest in on another website send it to us and we will schedule a showing with the sellers agent right away.
  • Once you choose the home you love it is time to make an offer. I will review recent sales comps in the area and help you write your offer to the seller.
  • Once accepted it is time to submit your earnest money and option money check as a Cashier/Money order to the indicated Title company listed on the Contract. Then, it is time to celebrate a little. You are now under contract!
main

Step 03

Making an offer

To make an offer we need to know a couple things first. Here are some of the important things we need to know.

  • Offer Amount
  • Escrow Deposit Amount
  • Target Closing Date
  • Target Mortgage Commitment Date
  • Pre-approved letter from your lender
  • Inspection Period

Multiple Offer Situation

It is not uncommon to see sellers have several competing purchase offers to consider. When going into a multiple offer situation as a buyer you must know only one offer will result in a sale and every other buyer will be left disappointed their offer was not accepted. Here are a couple tips to increase the chances of having the seller choose your offer over the rest.

main

Step 04

Home Inspections

Home inspections are important. Spend now to save later.

inspection The Period

The average home inspection period is 5-7 business days which excludes weekends and holidays.

Some Types Of Inspection

  • Home Inspection
  • Pest and Bug Inspection
  • Radon Testing
  • Mold Inspection
  • HVAC Inspection
  • Septic System Inspection
  • Lead Paint Inspection
main

Step 05

GET READY FOR THE BIG

Appraisal Day

Most mortgage companies will request an Appraisal on the property that you are trying to purchase to make sure the property meets Loan value.

main

Step 06

Closing Day

Home Insurance

Most mortgage companies will require proof you have obtained homeowners insurance before you can close on your new home. This is also known as an insurance binder. Shop for your insurance early in the buying stage. This step alone can help put you in a better position to close on time.

Review The Closing Disclosure

You have three business days to review your Closing DisclosureUse your three days wisely. Now is the time to review your documents, ask questions, and ensure you understand what you are signing up for. If something does not look correct contact your closing attorney.

Transfer Utilities

Call your local utility providers ahead of time and let them know you will be purchasing the home. This will help you avoid any temporary shut offs.

main

Step 07

Final Walk Through

This is not a home inspection or a time to start new negotiations with the seller

The purpose of a final walkthrough is to make sure that the property is in the condition in which you agreed to buy it. Here is a list of things you should check during your final walkthrough.

  • Turn on and off every light fixture.
  • Run water and check for leaks under sinks.
  • Test all appliances.
  • Check garage door openers.
  • Open and close all doors.
  • Flush toilets.
  • Inspect ceilings, walls, and floors
  • Run the garbage disposal and exhaust fans.
  • Test the heating and air conditioning.
  • Open and close windows.
  • Make sure all trash is removed from the home.

Looking to Sell?

Learn More

Follow Us on Instagram

The Callander Group | Woodlands & Montgomery Real Estate