Buying with Heather
There are many steps to buying a home for your new lifestyle. I’ve been through them many times and can expertly guide you through the process.
Step #1: Lifestyle Analysis and Consultation
Here we will sit down together and talk in depth about the transformation that you are envisioning. We will discuss pros & cons of the particular lifestyle and any concerns you may have about it being a good fit for you. You will give me a good understanding of your needs & expectations for a property and I will develop a strategy to best help you achieve your goals.
Step # 2: Talking to a Lender
If you are not paying cash for your property, one of the first steps is to meet with a lender to get pre-approved for a loan. As we begin to search for properties it is important to understand what you can afford. This also prepares you to make an offer when you find the right property because your pre-approval letter is all you need.
I highly recommend working with a local lender who truly understands real estate lending in Sonoma County. Sellers agents often favor local lenders when considering purchase offers because they know they can get the loan funded in a timely manner and understand the nuances of local lending.
Recommended Lenders:
Myra McBain Stearns Lending
Terri Mitchell Redwood Credit Union
Matt Lewis Wells Fargo
Step # 3: Selecting a Property
This is the fun, though sometimes frustrating, part where your dreams begin to take shape. Once we have discussed your vision and you are pre-approved for your loan, we will begin to choose homes for you to view. As we go, through observation and insight, I will continue to develop my understanding of your needs and what properties will work for you. It’s common for your vision to shift and adjust in this phase as you visit actual properties and can see some of the realities of living on them. Then the magic moment happens—you find the property you want to call home!
Step #4 Making a Purchase Offer
Once you have selected a home for your lifestyle, we will create a strategy to make an offer to purchase the home. With many factors to consider, we will develop the offer that fits your needs and will be most attractive to the seller. Sonoma County can be a competitive market to purchase a home in and I have years of experience in crafting offers that get the home.
Step #5 Managing the transaction & negotiations
I oversee and coordinate the many steps to this part of the process. Including:
Inspections so you are aware of the condition and any problems that need to be addressed with the property
Coordinate any needed service providers for repairs and updates
Document review & explanation (preliminary title report, seller disclosures, etc.)
Assist with negotiations from any information that arises
Work with lender to ensure funding of your loan
Monitor timelines so closing occurs on time and with minimal stress
Provide advice and support to you every step of the way