When you're ready to get started, simply contact me here or send e-mail to PeterMcGuinn@att.net. I'm glad to address any questions you have regarding this information.

Step 1 – Prepare to buy
Before you start searching for a home, there are many things you need to take into account. When you begin your search, you'll want to create a list of items you want, get a feeling for what neighborhoods you'd like to live in, and begin planning around your budget. A good rule of thumb to adhere to is that your mortgage payment should be no more than 1/3 of your net monthly income.

Step 2 – Speak with a real estate agent

This is where I come in. We can schedule a time to meet so we can talk about your real estate needs and get an idea of your upcoming plans. We'll talk about neighborhoods, school districts in the Media area, the mortgage and housing industries, and any additional economic factors that could affect your purchase today or in the future.

In addition, I'll assist you in getting started on your loan. There are some very good mortgage professionals, and I work with a lot of them, so you can rest assured that you're in great hands. They can assist you with figuring out which type of loan is best for you and help you get qualified.

Step 3 – Begin looking for a home
After our first meeting, I'll start finding homes on the market that are a good fit for you. I'll preview most of the homes and eliminate the duds, and then we'll schedule appointments to view the homes when it's convenient for you.

As we tour the homes, I'll show you the positive features, as well as bad ones. I'll also ask you to tell us about things you like and dislike. For the most part, buyers change their must-have list as we view homes and some features become more necessary than others. If that happens, I'll look through all the listings again and trim it down to the home you've been dreaming about.

Step 4 – Get a feel for the market
My awareness of the home market is an indispensable resource in your house search. I am mindful of all the neighborhoods and school districts, and I can alert you to certain districts are "hot" and warrant prompt action and others that are "cold" and allow for careful analysis.

When we view homes, I'll let you know if the list price has room for negotiation or if I believe the house is "priced to sell." Every REALTOR^® will convince you they truly understand the housing market, but be mindful, and be sure to ask lots of questions. If things don't add up, call me at 610-804-6977 or e-mail me at PeterMcGuinn@att.net, and I'd be happy to answer any questions you may have. My knowledge of the market will help you stay a step ahead throughout the entire deal.

Step 5 – Find the house you've been waiting for
I'm confident we'll find your dream house. When that happens, I'll thoroughly create your home purchase offer. The offer will be tailored to suit your needs, including several contingencies. A few examples are obtaining financing, finishing the home inspection, and a clear title.

When turning in your offer, most likely you'll need to present "earnest money." This is a cash deposit given to a home seller to secure the offer to buy the property, and it's typically applied to the cost of closing. If the offer is accepted, we should close on the home within 30 to 60 days afterward. This allows necessary time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate
Unfortunately most deals don't close on the beginning offer. It's extremely common to receive a counter offer. But don't let this discourage you. We'll consider whether or not to consent to the counter offer, propose our own counter offer, or decline the seller's offer and go on.

How aggressively we negotiate the contract depends on the state of the market. In addition, we'll work within your financing constraints. And at the end of the day, we'll compose a deal that's best for you.

Step 7 – Secure financing
Upon finishing the deal, you'll start working with your mortgage lender to close the loan. If you're pre-qualified, it won't be a long process at all. However, you'll need to keep in close contact with your lender. And I'll look after all the property information your mortgage lender will need to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
You'll get a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) of closing costs from your lender within three days of accepting your loan application. The estimate depends on the loan amount. RESPA requirements mandate that it has to include all closing costs and be within a close range of accuracy, and I'll review the estimate and let you know if it all looks okay.

Then we'll close on your house. This will most likely happen at a title company or escrow office and will most often be a smooth and peaceful occurrence.

Step 9 – Move in
Success! Now you can move into your new home. Enjoy it. And if you have any questions, be sure to call me at 610-804-6977 or send me an e-mail.