For Buyers

Whatever your reasons for buying, finding the right home in the perfect neighborhood, and at a cost that is within your budget, is no small task. That is why many buyers choose to work with a full-service, licensed real estate professional to guide them through the process. We have detailed information about properties for sale by every company, and can make appointments to see any home that you are interested in.

FAQ's

What if I need to sell my home before I buy a new one?

To put yourself in the best negotiation position before you find the new home you want, hire a qualified real estate agent to help you put your home on the market. Once you write an offer on a new home, your offer will be "contingent" upon the sale of your home. Keep in mind that a buyer in this position may not have the same negotiating power as one whose home has already sold (or at least has an accepted offer). The seller may be more hesitant to accept your offer because there are too many things that must happen before the sale can close.

How does my offer get presented to the seller?

Your agent will call the listing agent for the home you have chosen and make arrangements with the seller to present your offer. The agent representing you will then explain the details of your offer to the seller and negotiate on your behalf.

What happens if I offer less than the asking price?

If you offer less money, the seller has three options: they can accept the lower offer, counter your offer, or reject it completely. Remember that there could be another buyer who is also interested in the home you have chosen. If they happen to write an offer at the same time you do, the seller will have two offers to compare. There are usually many aspects of each offer to consider, but ultimately the seller will want to accept the best and most complete offer.

Does it cost me money to make an offer?

When you write the offer on the home you have chosen, you will be expected to include an earnest money deposit. The deposit is a sign of your good faith that you are seriously interested in buying the home.

Where does my earnest money go?

Once the buyer and seller have a mutually accepted offer, the earnest money is deposited into a trust account. That deposit becomes a credit to the buyer and becomes part of the purchase expense.

Can I lose my earnest money?

Rarely does the buyer lose the earnest money. Most often, if the transaction falls apart, there are circumstances beyond the buyer's control that cause it to happen. If the buyer willfully decides, however, that they no longer want to buy the house and has no legal reason to rescinding their offer, then the seller has the right to retain the earnest money.

Is that all the money that is involved?

Some lenders require the cost of the appraisal and credit report at the time of the loan application.