Presentation: Traditionally, the selling agent's role in a real estate transaction has been to represent the seller. This meant the selling agent owed a fiduciary duty to the seller, not to the buyer! It is possible, however, for the buyer to have representation whereby the selling agent would owe the fiduciary duty to the buyer. Ask me to assist you in making this decision by providing you with the Skyline Properties Buyer's Guide to Agency Representation.
I am a member of the Northwest Multiple Listing Association. This gives me access to information on all the properties offered for sale in the Puget Sound area. I will ensure that you will see all homes in which you are interested, regardless of who has listed the property.
Viewing Properties: Communicate clearly to me your requirements for a new home; I will preview properties for you, selecting only those that fulfill your specific needs. If you see a home in an advertisement, newspaper, magazine, TV or internet - or drive by a home you like, call me for information. I can obtain all the information quickly and accurately from the listing broker without subjecting you to "strong arm" sales techniques you might be subjected to if you tried to obtain that information yourself. If you decide to attend an open house held by another Real Estate professional, all you have to do is hand them one of my business cards I have provided you and explain you are working with another real estate professional. This will avoid potentially uncomfortable or confusing circumstances.
It's also a good idea to take a Buyer's Check List (included in this package) with you while you are viewing properties. In some cases, you may view so many properties that it becomes difficult to remember the pros and cons of each one. This list, along with additional information provided by myself can help you analyze which properties more specifically meet your criteria!
Financing: Before, or shortly after you begin touring prospective properties, you should be Pre-Approved or Pre-Qualified for a mortgage loan. This will help you and myself when negotiating, and it could possibly make the difference of getting your offer accepted over others! Many mortgage loan companies will offer you Pre-Approval or Pre-Qualifications over the phone, via e-mail and by appointment. I can also recommend a mortgage loan officer or assist you in locating one! This also saves you the time and effort of looking at homes outside of your price range. It is important to note the difference between Pre-Approval and Pre-Qualification. Pre-Approval is an actual mortgage loan approval based upon your credit report, income and assets. A Pre-Qualification is an educated estimate of what you would qualify for based upon non-verified information supplied by you. If at all possible, a Pre-Approval is the better way to go!
Making an Offer: I will prepare your purchase and sales agreement offer with you and will guide you through the essential details of the binding contract. You will be asked to give a check for "Earnest Money Deposit" at the time the offer is prepared, so be sure to have your checkbook with you. I will assist you throughout the entire offer and acceptance process.
Closing: The closing agent (usually an escrow company) will prepare the necessary legal documents, including the deed, and call you for an appointment to sign your closing papers. When they call you for this appointment, they should tell you the exact amount you need to bring with you. As a general rule, personal checks are not accepted at closing, so be sure to bring a cashier's check. Once you have signed your closing papers, deposited your funds and the deed is recorded in your name, I can give you the keys to your new home!
Jo Soss | Bremerton Real Estate Agent