Buying in Austin

Buying a home is both exciting AND overwhelming. As your agent, I will guide you through the process, step-by-step, to ensure a smooth transaction. In the meantime, here’s an overview of what to expect during your home buying process.

Get Approved

Obtain Loan Pre-Approval.

The first step in buying a home is getting pre-approved for a home loan. During this process, you’ll receive all the information you need to determine how much home you can afford and what level of monthly payment fits your budget. Some sellers will refuse offers from buyers who are not pre-approved for a loan, which is why this should be done BEFORE you begin the home search.

Shop for Homes.

First, determine what you are looking for in a new home. I use this form to help determine your wish list and find your best matches. Once you’re clear on what you really want, it’s time to look through the MLS to match your priorities with what you see on the market. Now you’re ready to shop!

Home Buying Checklist

Make an Offer

Once you find your home, it's time to sign a Real Estate Contract with your offer price. This offer goes to the Seller's agent, who then presents to the Seller. Expect several days of negotiation before you reach a final agreement.

Inspection

When the offer is accepted, it's time to arrange for a home inspector to come out and take an impartial look at the property. Don't delay - this inspection has to be completed during the option period so that if you find a problem you're not willing to live with (and the Seller is not willing to fix), you can still cancel the contract and forfeit only your option fee.

Obtain Homeowner's Insurance

Before you can close on your new home, you must arrange for homeowner's hazard insurance. Notify your lender of the selected insurance company, including a contact name and phone number. You may receive a discount by having your car insurance and homeowners insurance with the same company, so check with your current insurance agent as well. It's best to obtain at least two estimates from different agents to help you make an informed choice.

Transfer Utilities and Mail

You will need to transfer your new home's utilities to your name before moving in. To save money on re-connection fees, call ahead and ask the utility companies (electric & gas) to transfer the billing to your name upon cancellation by the Seller. For your mail, you will want to change your address with the post office.

HUD-1 Settlement Statement

One day before closing — or sometimes just hours before— the title company will complete the HUD-1 settlement statement. This document tells you how much money to bring to closing, so it's essential that you read it carefully.

Closing

You will receive keys to your new home from the Seller at the closing. At this point, you may be able to move in immediately, or the Seller may require that funding take place before you take possession. Funding usually takes about 2 to 4 hours from the time you complete the closing process. The closing itself will take about an hour.