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This checklist is provided to give all buyer's an idea of the "full service" process we use with our clients.  We believe the time taken early in the home buying process will help clients achieve their desired results while avoiding problems and pitfalls later.

Very early in the home buying process,  potential clients should check their credit report and begin to clear up any errors that may hurt their credit score.  The safest site to use is   www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/index.jsp the major credit agencies' official site that provides the free reports you're entitled by law to receive once each year.

If you would like to estimate or check your FICO score and simulate how to change it,  this link will take you directly to the BankRateCom web page where you can  access a free estimator or review various products you can purchase - click: 

 www.bankrate.com/realfc/fico/calc.asp

If you have any questions, contact me billfreeman@frgnc.com or call me at 919-338-0788.

Buyer’s  Checklist

1.       Present and review “Working with Real Estate Agents” brochure – signed receipt for file

2.       Review and give client copies of NC Standard Forms used in the home buying process – discuss “when is a contract a contract”

3.       Give and review our document – “some local nuances and disclosures for your due diligence”.

4.       Review Buyer’s Objectives, note confidentiality, any allergies?

Discuss “rent vs. buy” & analytical tools available on website.

 5.    New Homes vs. Resale Homes - how the buying process can differ

 6.       Buyer’s Agency Agreement – agree on FSBO approach

 7.       Conduct initial MLS search on line and review results / revise objectives with buyer

-include recent sales (informal market analysis)

 8.       Estimate of total price and various closing costs / monthly payments – based on low and high side of objectives and various property tax rates

 9.       Shopping for a mortgage – typical mortgage types and costs associated with obtaining a mortgage

10.     Mortgage “pre-qualification” and “pre-approval” – why a "pre-approval" is most important in today's market

11.      Homeowner’s Associations – documents, dues and capital contributions

12.    Let’s go out and find your next home!

13.     Prepare, Negotiate and Enter into Contract

  Comparable analysis – develop offering price, prepare negotiating strategy

  Develop a “strong” offer even if price is low!

  Back and forth of negotiation until agreement is reached or move on to next property!

  Timeline of critcal performance dates in contract - discuss "time is of the essence"

14.    Homeowner’s Inspection scheduled by buyer and completed, repair request submitted and agreed to.

           List of recommended Home Inspectors or your own

15.    Closing scheduled by buyer (and broker)  with attorney

16.    Documents from BF and/or Buyer to attorney (for Real Estate Closing Information form)

17.    List of Important Contacts - gas, electric, water& sewer, phone, cable, trash, etc

18.     Homeowner’s Association Documents (from seller or website)

19.     Homeowner’s Insurance Issued

20.    All Homeowner’s inspection deficiencies corrected

21.    Pre-closing walkthrough

22.    Mortgage commitment received / funds available  at closing attorney/ bring certified check or wire transfer for cash balance for closing

23.  Closing!