Buyer Needs

In this initial meeting we meet with you to discuss your needs and wants in a home.  Topics may include:

• Agency Relationship

• Overall Home Purchase Process

• Desired Home Characteristics & Location

• Financing and Monthly Payments

• Closing Costs

Online Resources:

• Purchase Timeline - Timeline showing representative home purchase process from Buyer Needs Analysis to Close.

• Buyer Needs Analysis Worksheet - Worksheet to define needs and wants in your new home.

• Neighborhood Information - View Chicago neighborhood maps and descriptions.

Mortgage Pre-Approval

Before beginning the home search it is recommended that you obtain a pre-approval from a lender.  Pre-approval is a much more involved process than a pre-qualification. The lender will take all pertinent information regarding your finances and perform an extensive check on your current financial status. This will ultimately give you the exact amount that you will be eligible to borrow.

Online Resources:

• Lenders - Work with a lender to find a program that meets your financial needs.

• Credit Score Guide - A handy guide that explains your credit score and it's importance during the home buying process.

Home Search

We search the MLS and preview properties that meet your needs and wants.  In addition, we will schedule all property showings, accompany you on all showing appointments, and review competitive listings in the area.

Online Resources:

• Search the MLS - Search the latest property listings in the area.  Set yourself up to receive the latest listings that meet your criteria daily via email.

• Buyer Home Evaluation Worksheet - Worksheet to make notes and rate properties of interest throughout the home search process.

Offer & Negotiation

Once we locate a property you are interested in, the next step is to present an offer.  We will handle the details:

• Offer Preparation & Presentation - We will review comps in the area and formulate a plan to create a winning offer with the best possible price and terms.  We will review offer terms with you, collect all documentation, and prepare a written offer.  Once approved by you, we will then present the offer to the listing agent.

• Offer Negotiation to Contract - We will coordinate the process from offer presentation through signed contract.

Online Resources:

• Buyer Negotiation Tips - Short article that explains some useful negotiation tips.

Pre-Close Preparation

Once the offer has been accepted and signed by all parties, there are a number of steps that take place in preparation for a smooth close.  We will coordinate the process, tracking progress along the way. 

• Inspection - Assessment by a professional inspector regarding the condition of the the properties structural and mechanical systems.

• Attorney Review - Period of time allotted to the attorneys (buyer and seller) to review the contract, inspection report, and any other pertinent documentation (ex. condo docs, meeting minutes, etc.).

• Mortgage Commitment - Written commitment by the lender to make a loan for a specified amount on specified terms.

• Final Walkthrough - The period just before close where the buyer is allowed to have one final informal inspection of the home.

Close

We stay involved in the transaction from beginning to end which ensures a smooth close.  Staying involved allows us to uncover issues before the close, however, in the event that any issues do arise, we work with all involved until resolved.

Online Resources:

• What Happens at Closing - Brief guide by Ginnie Mae describing what happens during the closing.

Post-Close Support

Our service does not stop at the closing table.  Use us as a resource even after you move in to your new place.  We have a number of resources to draw upon from real estate attorneys to accountants to contractors.  We are always here to assist.

Online Resources:

• Local Resources - Find information on community services, entertainment, recreation, restaurants, and more.