Buyer's Guide
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you will ever make. Here is everything you need to know to do it with confidence, from start to close.
The Process
I walk you through every step so nothing catches you off guard. Here is the typical timeline and what happens at each stage.
Before we look at a single home, we get your financial picture clear. I connect you with trusted local lenders who will pre-approve you for a mortgage. This tells you exactly what you can afford and makes your offer stronger when the time comes. You should expect to provide tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, and employment verification.
We sit down and talk about what matters most to you. Location, size, style, schools, commute, budget, must-haves vs. nice-to-haves. I will set you up on a customized search so you see every new listing that fits your criteria in real time, and I will alert you to off-market opportunities as well.
This is the fun part. We tour homes together and I help you evaluate each one, not just emotionally but strategically. What is the home worth compared to others nearby? Are there deferred maintenance issues? How does the neighborhood fit your lifestyle? I give you honest feedback so you can make informed decisions.
When you find the right home, I draft a competitive offer based on current market data, comparable sales, and the seller's situation. We negotiate price, contingencies, timelines, and any concessions. My goal is to get you the best possible terms while keeping the deal on track.
Once your offer is accepted, the clock starts. We schedule a home inspection (typically within 7-10 days), and your lender orders an appraisal. I coordinate everything and walk you through the inspection report, helping you decide what to request repairs on and what to let go.
Your title company handles the paperwork and ensures the property has a clean title. You will secure homeowner's insurance, and your lender will do their final underwriting review. I stay on top of every deadline and keep you updated so nothing falls through the cracks.
You will review and sign your closing documents, wire your funds, and receive the keys to your new home. The entire closing typically takes about an hour. I will be right there with you, answering any last questions and celebrating this milestone.
The Numbers
Most buyers are surprised by how much (or how little) they need upfront. Here is a realistic breakdown for a typical Central Ohio home purchase.
Down Payment
FHA requires as little as 3.5%, conventional can be 3-5%. Putting 20% avoids PMI.
Closing Costs
Includes title fees, lender fees, escrow deposits, prepaid taxes and insurance.
Inspection
Home inspection, plus optional specialized inspections (radon, sewer, etc.).
Earnest Money
Good-faith deposit showing you are serious. Applied to your down payment at closing.
FAQ
It depends on your loan amount, interest rate, taxes, and insurance. I run the numbers with you upfront so you know exactly what to expect before we start looking.
Your lender will pre-approve you based on your income, debts, and credit. But affordability is also about lifestyle. I help you find the sweet spot where your housing payment works for your budget without stretching you too thin.
The "right time" depends on your personal situation, not the headlines. If you need a home and you plan to stay for several years, the market almost always rewards buying sooner rather than timing it perfectly.
Absolutely. A pre-approval letter tells sellers you are a serious buyer and gives you a clear budget. It also speeds up the process once you find the right home.
Ready to Find Your Next Home?
Let me guide you through every step, from pre-approval to closing day.