Buying a Home
Made Simple
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, but it does not have to feel overwhelming. I walk my buyers through every step of the process so you always know what to expect.
New to town? Here's your insider's guide to Columbus and Phenix City — the best spots, the local secrets, and everything you need to feel at home.
And if you want more local scoop, give me a call — I love talking all things Columbus and Phenix City!
Step 1:
Initial Consultation
We’ll discuss:
• Your goals
• Your budget
• Preferred areas
• Timeline
• Must haves versus nice to haves
• Financing options
This helps me better understand exactly what you’re looking for so we can build a plan that works for you.
Step 2:
Get Pre-Approved
Before shopping for homes, getting
pre-approved helps you:
• Understand your budget
• Strengthen your offer
• Shop confidently
• Move quickly when the right home becomes available
I can connect you with trusted local lenders who will help explain your financing options and answer any questions you may have.
Step 3:
Home Search
You’ll receive:
• Personalized home searches
• New listing alerts
• Market updates
• Virtual showing options for relocation clients
I’ll help narrow down homes that fit both your lifestyle and your goals.
Step 4:
Touring Homes
During showings, I help buyers evaluate:
• Layout and functionality
• Property condition
• Resale value
• Inspection concerns
• Neighborhood trends
• Commute times
I want you to feel confident in your decision, not rushed.
Step 5:
Making An Offer
Once you find the right home, I’ll guide you through submitting a competitive offer and negotiating terms that work in your favor.
This may include:
• Purchase price negotiations
• Closing costs
• Repair requests
• Timelines and contingencies
Step 6:
Inspections & Appraisal
Once under contract:
• Home inspections are scheduled
• Repairs are negotiated if needed
• Appraisal is completed
• Financing is finalized
I stay involved throughout the process to help everything move smoothly and keep you updated along the way.
Step 7:
Closing Day
Closing day is when you officially receive the keys to your new home
I’ll be there to help guide you through the final steps and celebrate this exciting milestone with you.
First Time Buyer Friendly
Buying your first home can feel intimidating at first, but I’m here to make the process feel approachable and understandable.
I help first time buyers understand:
• Down payment options
• FHA loans
• VA loans
• Conventional financing
• Closing costs
• Credit preparation
• What to avoid before closing
No question is too small. My goal is to make sure you feel comfortable and informed throughout the entire process.
Common Buyer Questions
How much money do I need to buy a home?
The amount needed depends on the type of loan, purchase price, and closing costs. Many buyers are surprised to learn they do not need a 20% down payment. Some loan programs allow for much lower down payments, and VA loans may offer zero down payment options for qualified military buyers.
Typical upfront costs may include:
• Earnest money deposit
• Inspection costs
• Appraisal fees
• Down payment
• Closing costs
I can also connect you with trusted lenders to explore financing options and determine what works best for your budget.
What credit score do I need?
Credit score requirements vary depending on the loan type and lender.
In general:
• FHA loans may allow lower credit scores
• Conventional loans typically require higher scores
• VA loans often offer flexible options for military buyers
Even if your credit is not perfect, it is still worth having a conversation. I can connect you with lenders who can provide guidance on improving credit and preparing for homeownership.
What is earnest money?
Earnest money is a deposit submitted with an offer to show the seller you are serious about purchasing the home.
Once under contract, the earnest money is typically held by the closing attorney or brokerage and later applied toward your closing costs or down payment at closing.
How long does closing take?
Most real estate transactions close within approximately 30 to 45 days after going under contract, though timelines can vary depending on financing, inspections, appraisals, and negotiations.
Cash transactions may close faster, while some loan programs can take longer.
I help guide buyers through every step to keep the process moving smoothly and on schedule.
What is included in closing costs?
Closing costs may include:
• Lender fees
• Attorney fees
• Appraisal fees
• Title work
• Homeowners insurance
• Property taxes
• Recording fees
Closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price depending on the loan and transaction details.
Should I get pre-approved before looking at homes?
Yes.
Getting pre-approved early helps you:
• Understand your budget
• Strengthen your offer
• Avoid surprises later
• Move quickly when the right home becomes available
It also helps narrow your search to homes that fit comfortably within your financial goals.
What’s the difference between pre qualified and pre approved?
Pre qualification is usually a quick estimate based on information you provide.
Pre approval is a more detailed review of your income, credit, and financial documentation by a lender and carries more weight when submitting offers.
What should I avoid doing before closing?
Before closing, buyers should avoid:
• Opening new credit cards
• Financing furniture or vehicles
• Changing jobs if possible
• Missing payments
• Making large unexplained deposits or withdrawals
Even small financial changes can impact loan approval during underwriting
New to town? Here's your insider's guide to Columbus and Phenix City — the best spots, the local secrets, and everything you need to feel at home.
And if you want more local scoop, give me a call — I love talking all things Columbus and Phenix City!
Let’s Work Together
Serving the Chattahoochee Valley &
Fort Benning area
