Five Stages of a Real Estate Transaction

1.    Needs Assessment

Needs, wants, desires. Using our detailed “Homebuyer Questionnaire,” we can help pinpoint all the features that are critical to you, making your home search efficient and on point. We pay full attention and suggest alternatives as needed. Also included in this stage are the needs you, the buyer, have for timing: when to move, when you need to be out of your current residence and more. Plus, during this stage, we discuss what you need financially in terms of price, down payment, etc. to purchase your next home.

2.    Property Selection

Together, we develop a list of properties that meet your parameters, whether they are MLS-listed properties, for sale by owners, etc. We dive deep to discover the facts about each home you are interested in, such as taxes, existing mortgages, selling history, and more.

3.    Viewing Properties

Once you’ve selected properties to view, we set up a convenient tour which fits your schedule; making the best use of your time. We can also view your favorite properties at different times of day to get an idea of sun patterns, traffic, etc. Plus, we’ll provide you with a fact sheet on each home being viewed so we can both take notes for objectively comparing the properties after the tour is complete. Steps two and three continue until you find a home you’d like to make an offer on.  

4.    Negotiating

During this stage, we educate and provide you with price counseling on recently sold houses that are comparable in the area so a solid offer can be developed on the home you want and ultimately successfully presented to the seller. We suggest protective clauses that can strengthen your negotiating position. We share all the information that we can find/have on the subject property and the seller. Often, this stage involves a great deal of back and forth, give and take, to result in a final accepted offer that meets the needs of all parties. 

5.    Follow-Through and Completion

In addition to stages two and three, this stage can be the longest. It involves being your advocate as the contract progresses through the inspection period, appraisal, title, financing and more. We’re by your side the entire way, helping you solve any problems that may arise, providing a list of other professionals you may need, and more. Once, the home closes escrow and move in is scheduled, we’re there to say, “Welcome Home!”