Your Team

Buyers Agent 

A buyers agent is just that.  He or she is the agent of the buyer. You have the freedom to choose any agent you want.  They have an obligation to serve your interests.  However, it is important to choose one that you trust and respect, one that you are confident will represent you and your interests.  In most cases,  a buyers agent is paid by the seller.  Be careful not to use the perceived reputation of larger companies as your basis for selecting an agent.  Your relationship will be with an individual agent not the company.

Mortgage Broker

Mortgage brokers have an array of loan products that apply to your situation.  Make sure and have a mortgage broker help you understand what you qualify for and what payment terms look like.  This should be one of things that you do at the onset.  Getting pre qualified allows you to search for a property with clarity and to be competitive in making an offer.

Inspector

A home inspection is one of the tools to ensure that you buy a safe and well built home. The information an inspector generates may also be a valuable tool for effective negotiating.

The Contract

The contract is your best friend when buying a home.  A well written offer helps you get the house you want with the terms that reflect your interests.  Generally, clean simple contracts are best.  Understanding which contracts to use and when can be tricky business.  This is one of many reasons to use a qualified agent.

Builder

If you are buying a new construction home or pre-sale home, your builder can help provide you with additional amenities.  Builders typically offer home warranties.  Choosing reputable builders helps to provide confidence when choosing a new home.

Escrow Agent

Just as the contract is your best friend, your escrow company is responsible for making sure that all the documents are in order and that funds are distributed appropriately.  Good closing agents often proactively resolve any concerns that may occur at the closing table.  Click here for more information on what happens in escrow.

Family Members & Partners

Making sure that everyone in the family is on board with the new move is an important and occasionally challenging step.  It’s also important to make sure that everyone who is financially related to the transaction is also supportive of the purchase.  It might sound funny but occasionally a parent or relative may offer financial support and later retract their commitment because they have an opinion about the house or neighborhood.  In short, be in communication with everyone who is effected by the new purchase.