Buying a home can be a very exciting, yet daunting experience. That's why I have assembled a wealth of information and helpful tools to assist you. Once you're past the information gathering stage, I will simplify the very complicated home buying process for you.

Step 1: Defining What You Want

Start by creating a prioritized list of features you want in your next home and the reasons why. Use it as your search guide, but remember that depending on your funding, you may need to make some compromises. In addition, decide where you want to live. Location is a huge part of any move.

Step 2: Figuring Out What You Can Afford

Now that you know what you want, it's time to see what you can afford. You can start by crunching the numbers yourself using our mortgage calculator.

When you're ready to move to the next step, you can get pre-approved for a mortgage. This process can often be performed in under an hour and it accomplishes two important goals. First, it will tell you how much house you can afford and what your monthly payments would be. Second, it tells the seller that you can afford to buy their home and strengthens any offers you may decide to make.

By definition, a pre-approved buyer has an approved mortgage subject to an appraisal of the property. Many times a buyer can use this pre-approved status as leverage during the negotiation process.

Step 3: Shopping For Homes

Once you know what community you'd like to live in and have an idea of how much house you can afford, its time to start checking out actual properties.

At this point, we will begin visiting homes in person. I will arrange visits and attend open houses that are in your target area and price range. When comparing homes, make sure to look at all aspects of the property.

Remember to keep an open mind when you are looking at homes.

Step 4: Making An Offer

Once you find the home you want, you need to make an offer for the house. Typically this is a very difficult and trying time since both parties have totally different goals. I will help you negotiate the offer. If you have any personal interaction with the homeowner, don't give out any information about your move, your current housing status, financial status or your feelings about their property - positive or negative. This could hurt you in future negotiations.

Step 5: Inspection & Insurance

After your offer is accepted you will need to set up, coordinate and interpret various inspections. You will also need to arrange for homeowners insurance and finalize the mortgage.

This is a major step in the buying process and there are many potential problems that can be discovered during this period. These problems happen all the time. The difference between closing on your dream home and starting the process all over again is what occurs during the negotiations between you and the seller.

I can help make these discussions go more smoothly. You will also have the option of a "walk through" before the closing. This is your last chance to make sure that all of the items that you have agreed upon were completed to your satisfaction.

Step 6: The Final Closing

Before you arrive at the closing, make sure all the necessary paper work and deposits have been completed. If the mortgage, title work, homeowners insurance and other items necessary under local and state laws are not completed and brought to the closing table, the closing may not happen on time. And, depending on what the contract says, this could result in further action including financial penalties and even the loss of your rights to the home.

Once you close, it's official - you own the house! Congratulations! Now the time has come to move in and enjoy your new home.

Ready To Start Shopping For Your Next Home? 
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Susan Cavalli
Century 21 Select Group Fine Homes and Estates
409 Century Park Dr., Yuba City, CA 95991
530-218-1993