Contemplating buying your new home in Oakland?

Buying a home is a stressful event for a lot of people, but with some up-front planning, it isn't that complicated. So they'll know exactly what they can expect, I like to supply buyers with an overview of the whole deal. Below are my nine steps to buying a home. If you have any questions about any of this information or if you're prepared to get started, you can contact me here or e-mail me at .

Step 1 – Get ready to purchase
There are plenty of things you need to take into account before starting your home search. When you begin your search, you'll want to assemble a check list of must-have features, get a feeling for what neighborhoods you'd like to live in, and begin working on your budget. Keeping your mortgage payment around a third of your monthly income is a good principle to go by.

Step 2 – Speak with a real estate agent
That's where I can help. I'd be happy to book a time to get together with you and communicate with you about why you want to buy a home and get an idea of your future plans. We'll talk about everything from neighborhoods, schools in the Oakland area, the mortgage industry, to any other economic factors that may potentially affect your purchase today or in the future.

In addition, I'll help you get started on your loan. There are some excellent mortgage professionals in Oakland, and I work with a lot of them, so you can rest assured that you're in great hands. They will help you figure out which type of loan is best for you, as well as help you get approved.

Step 3 – Begin looking
After our first meeting, I'll start searching for available homes on the market that are a great fit for you. I'll preview most of the homes and eliminate the duds, and then we'll schedule appointments to view the houses at a time that's convenient for you.

As we tour homes, I'll show you the positive features and negative ones. And I'll ask you to tell us about things you like and don't like. Frequently, buyers change their list of must-haves as we view houses and some features become far more crucial than others. If that happens, I'll go back through all the listings one more time and narrow it down to the home you've been wishing for.

Step 4 – Comprehend the housing market
My awareness of the Oakland market is a crucial factor in your house search. I am conscious of all the schools and neighborhoods, and I can communicate what districts are "hot" and demand immediate action and some that are "cool" and allow for more examination.

As we tour homes, I'll make sure to communicate if the list price has room for bargaining or if I believe the home is "priced to sell." When working with an agent, be careful and be sure to ask lots of questions, as any real estate agent will tell you they know the housing market. If it doesn't seem like they know everything, just call me at 5106010116 or e-mail me at , and I'll be glad to answer any questions you may have. My knowledge of the market will keep you a step ahead through the entire process.

Step 5 – Find the home of your dreams
I'm sure we'll find your dream home in Oakland. When we do, I'll thoroughly develop your home purchase offer. The offer will be made to suit your needs and the home. We'll include many contingencies, such as getting financing, carrying out the inspection, and a clear title.

Upon presenting your offer, you'll need to submit "earnest money." This is a cash deposit submitted to the home seller to secure the offer to purchase the property. The amount is usually applied to the cost of closing. If the seller accepts the offer, we should close on the property within 30 to 60 days after. This allows ample time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate
Most deals don't close on the beginning offer, and it's really common to receive a counter offer. But don't let this intimidate you. We'll talk over whether or not to consent to the counter offer, submit our own counter offer, or decline the seller's offer and go on.

Market conditions determine how aggressively we negotiate the contract. In addition, we'll work within your financing constraints. And at the end of the day, we'll compose a deal that is best for you.

Step 7 – Get a loan
Upon completing the deal, you'll begin working with your mortgage lender to close the loan. If you've been pre-approved, this shouldn't take much time at all, but you should to keep in close contact with your lender. And I'll handle all the property information your lender needs to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) of your closing costs from your mortgage lender within three days of receiving your loan application. The estimate rests on the loan amount, and RESPA requirements dictate that it has to contain all closing costs and fall within a precise range of accuracy. I'll go over the estimate and let you know if everything looks good.

Then it's time to close on your house. This will most likely take place at a title company or escrow office and will most likely be a smooth and relaxing occasion.

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! It's time to move into your new home. Enjoy it. And if you have any questions, be sure to call me at 5106010116 or e-mail me at .