Even for an experienced buyer the process of buying a home can be very daunting! At Equinox we specialize in finding you exactly what you want. We pay attention to your needs and help you organize the process into manageable steps and stages. We provide you with the technology and tools that place information and decision making in your hands. From our free Property Organizer account, to our insight and understanding of the market, our network of associates and our hands-on approach, we position you to be in charge of the buying process.
The Process
We do not only provide you with information, we are also available to answer all your questions. Here are our suggestions for a superior buying experience:
✓ Clarity! Clarity! Clarity!
If you are clear about what you want and can afford, the search becomes that much easier. So the best place to begin is with what you can afford and then decide on size, features, location, etc., based on your budget.
Some additional considerations will be your lifestyle, your short and long term goals. Do you have school aged children? If so, is public school an option? Is ease of access to cultural places important or is your priority tranquility away from congested areas? Do you prefer open floor plans or you must have a finished basement? Which is more important? As you sift through these and other essential questions, a clear picture of what you want and can afford emerges. We help you tweak and refine your search and then dive into the process of finding you exactly what you want.
✓ Money! Money! Money!
First, most people can’t write a check for the house they want. So, unless you have a rich uncle, you need a loan. If you do not have a loan officer, we will refer you to several so that you can choose the one you are most comfortable with. Once you share your financial profile with them, you should receive the following: how much house you can afford, loan options, closing costs and also get a pre-approval letter from the loan officer. Once we have these, we are better positioned to begin the search.
✓ Finding that house!
Identifying and pinpointing exactly what you want is much easier because of the technology at your fingertips. It is best to have all the decision makers involved in this process. It saves time and reduces frustration. Once we have decided on possibilities, it is highly advisable that all the decision makers be available for visiting the homes. Once a visit is done, frank and immediate feedback is required. It refines our search and moves us to the next stage, until you have identified your dream home!
✓ Making an offer
We will submit an offer based on information gleaned from prior sales, state of the home, and of course your budget. The written offer contains several critical elements that we will explain to you. We work with you to ensure that your voice is heard and reflected in your final acquisition choice. If necessary, we will negotiate on your behalf. Once the Seller agrees to your offer and both have signed it becomes a legal binding contract. With your contract in hand, your next steps are securing a loan, arranging for a formal inspection (if necessary), appraisal, survey, etc. which are all part of getting ready for a closing.
✓ Pre-closing
Your Lender and Title Company and or closing attorney will each be involved in different ways to ensure you have a successful closing. They will make arrangements for property appraisal, survey, and insurance while working to remove any obstacle to a closing. Once they have done their part, we will arrange a closing date convenient to all parties and proceed into the final phase. You will receive a closing statement prior to closing. This has a lot of important detail about all costs and fees which we will review with you also. It is advisable to schedule a final walk-thru, especially if you had requested repairs/ upgrades as a condition of the sale.
✓ Closing
Once all the professional parties have done their part, there isn’t much for you to do. Remember you would have had the benefit of specialized advice from your lender, attorney, title-company and you would have received a copy of the closing statement ahead of the closing. At the formal closing there should be no surprises. The documents you will sign will simply reflect what has been shared with you already and of course will transfer legal title to you. Once all documents are signed, the seller is paid and you are the proud owner of your new home!
✓ Post-closing:
After closing do stay in touch just in case something has been missed. Maybe you did not get keys to the basement, or the garage opener. Regardless, we are still available and at your service. Since you have enjoyed working with us, you may have a relative or friend who is looking. We love referrals! Or perhaps you are ready for that investment/retirement property. Regardless, we would love to hear from you!