Wondering what happens with you choose to work with The Goodhart Group when buying a home? Our buyer agent Sara Smith breaks down the process for you.
Initial Buyer Consultation
Whether you’re meeting with us in person or over the phone, this meeting is where we will discuss your wants and needs, neighborhoods, buying timeframe, buying process, and buyer representation.
Selecting a Lender
If you haven’t spoken with a lender before we’ve met, you’ll want to do this right after (don’t worry – if you don’t have a lender in mind, we have several local lenders that we work with frequently and highly recommend). Your lender will discuss your price range, the different types of loans available to you, monthly payment, downpayments, etc. with you.
Your lender will issue you a pre-approval letter once you have submitted all of the necessary paperwork. You will need this pre-approval letter in order to submit an offer.
Becoming a Goodhart Group Client
Once you have signed the buyer broker paperwork, you are officially part of The Goodhart Group client family! We will work to set up your home search and schedule a market orientation tour with you when you are ready.
The Home Search
Now the fun part! At this stage, we start to look at homes.
We work seven days a week and are happy to accommodate your schedule.
You can also visit open houses at your convenience, just make sure you let the agent know you are working with us. Along the way, we will aim to fine-tune your search criteria until we find the perfect home for you! Our team also meets weekly during this time to strategize on how to find you the right match.
Writing an Offer
So, you found a home you’d like to buy…that’s great! We can write the offer together in person, jump on a call, or do it all over email – it’s up to you. First, we will look at comparables and help you determine an offer price and bidding strategy (if it’s a competitive situation). Don’t worry – we’ll explain all of the terms of the offer and contingencies and as well as do all of the negotiating on your behalf.
Under Contract
Congratulations, we are ratified! You will need to drop off a check or wire funds for the Earnest Money Deposit. You’ll also need to send us your availability for a home inspection.
At this time, you will also make the formal loan application.
We will work to coordinate all of the terms of the contract (the home inspection, appraisal, wood destroying insect inspection, etc). Every week, we send you a detailed update on the status of the contract and transaction.
Preparing for the Move
It’s time to start packing for your move and work on transferring your utilities.
The Final Walk Through
A few days before settlement, we will do a final walk through of the home. The home should be in the same condition as it was during the home inspection and “broom clean.” If the sellers repaired any home inspection items, we will check on those as well as test all appliances to make sure they are still in working order.
Settlement
It’s a big day – settlement, or closing, is the final step in the real estate transaction. The property ownership is transferred from the seller to you today. A member of our team will attend the big day with you!
Post Settlement
You remain a member of The Goodhart Group Client Family! As such, you will have access for all of our resources, recommendations, and referrals.
You can call on us at any time with any and all questions related to your home or real estate in general.
You will also receive invitations to our client events and the monthly Goodhart Giveaway email.
Questions about the process? Please reach out. We are always happy to chat, even if you’re not quite ready.
