Set Your Budget

Once you’re pre-approved, you’ll know the maximum amount you qualify for. However, that amount may not align with a comfortable monthly payment.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Additional costs like property taxes, insurance, and HOA fees.
• Monthly expenses for utilities such as electricity, water, cable, and Wi-Fi.

Pro Tip: Set a firm top amount you’re willing to spend—even if it’s your dream home—to ensure you stay within a budget that works for you.

Define Your Needs and Wants for your criteria

Needs:

• These are the must-haves that you can’t compromise on, like:
• The number of bedrooms to fit your family.
• Being close to your workplace or your child’s school.
• A budget that stays within your financial comfort zone.

Wants:

• These are the nice-to-haves that would make the home more enjoyable but aren’t deal-breakers, like:
• A large backyard for entertaining.
• An updated kitchen with high-end appliances.
• Extra space for a home office or gym.

Download your wants and needs form here

By knowing exactly what you need and want, you can narrow your options and find the right home faster, saving time and energy.

Set Up an Auto-Search

Create a search to automatically receive homes that match your criteria as soon as they hit the market, go into escrow, or sell.

Want Help?
If you’d like me to set up an auto-search for you, just let me know! (click here)

Keep in Mind:
You can still use your favorite search sites, but an auto search ensures you’re the first to know about new listings that meet your needs. This gives you an edge in a competitive market.

Tips for Showings

1. Look Past the Stuff:
   If the home is tenant- or owner-occupied, imagine it cleared out. Focus on the space itself and ignore clutter or personal items—remember, you’re buying the home, not the stuff.
2. Be Mindful of What You Say:
   We believe negotiations start at the initial showing. If the seller’s agent is present, avoid appearing overly eager to buy or hard to work with, as this could weaken your negotiating position.
3. Identify Key Likes and Dislikes:

• • Focus on what’s most important to you—good and bad—about each property. While features like paint, flooring, or even layout can be updated, the land and location cannot be changed.
  • Rate Each Property (1-10): Properties rated 8, 9, or 10 are homes you would want to make an offer on.