Here’s a step by step guide to buying a home.

The home buying process can be complex. These key steps are the critical steps to follow:
1. Choose & Meet Your Realtor
Building a solid relationship with a Real Estate Agent is important. He or she will be working closely with you in finding the perfect home to meet your unique needs. Professional agents have extensive market knowledge and will provide guidance in your buying process.

2. Finding the Perfect Home
Your Real Estate Agent will show you homes based on the criteria that you have given him. The more precise and direct you are with your agent, the more successful your search will be.

3. Determine the Seller’s Motivation
Once you have found your perfect property, your agent will research the homeowner’s motivation for selling, helping leverage your negotiating power in an offer to purchase.

4. Offer to Purchase
Your agent will draft a purchase agreement, advising you on customary practices, local regulations, and protective contingencies. You will need to provide an “earnest money” deposit at this time, usually ranging from 1%to 3% of the purchase price (deposit amount is not cashed until your offer is accepted by the seller). Your Realtor will present your offer to the seller’s agent. The seller will then either accept your offer, counter your offer or reject your offer.

5. Seller’s Response
You and your agent will review the seller’s response. Your agent’s knowledge of the process and strong negotiating skills will help you reach an agreement you feel good about.

6. Open Escrow
Your agent will open escrow for you once the purchase agreement is accepted and signed by all parties. Your “earnest money” will be deposited at this time. All funds associated with your transaction, either held, received, or distributed, will be handled by your escrow or title company