My agent didn’t do a thing! What your Realtor won’t tell you.

from Home Buyer’s FAQ on www.yourvalleyproperty.com

A lot goes on behind the scenes of a home purchase but your Realtor isn’t going to tell you about most of it because you, as a Home Buyer, have enough to think about.

If you feel that buying a home is going to be complicated or intimidating, someone has steered you wrong. The process for the Home Buyer should be seamless. Certainly it requires a measure of caution and patience with paper, but that’s about as complex as it gets. I do this every day, for me it’s all par-for-the course and by the time we’re done I intend for you to be as comfortable with the process as I am. Below is a list of some of the things that will be my responsibility, things I’m paid to do for you.

Inform you throughout and about, every development in your transaction.
Listen to your needs and understand your real estate objectives, both financial and personal.
Explain each clause in every page of paperwork. A safeguard against negative repercussions.
We can prepare for and head-off many obstacles right from the start, but unforeseen issues before, during and after the transaction will be handled efficiently and correctly.
Negotiate and deal effectively on your behalf with sellers, other agents, escrow/closing and title representatives, and lenders when indicated.
Properly prepare forms, contracts and disclosures, which are required by law, make sure that they are complete, accurate, and that they protect your interests.
Provide factual and relevant, comparable sales data to assure that you are considering an advantageous price for your offer. This involves assessing your financial ability, and determining how quickly you want to move in.
Counsel you regarding the necessity and extent of repairs.
Advise if necessary, in the selection of escrow/closing and title company, offering numerous options and outlining the services they provide.
Consult with you regarding cities and neighborhoods, screen listing options and help you decide on the right home for you.
Help you spot purchase contracts that do not have your best interest in mind.
Point out variations, the use of, and limitations of the earnest money deposit, if and why it might be retained by the seller or when it would be legally yours to keep.
Advise as to when you should seek counsel of an attorney.
Oversee the fulfillment of contractual dates and conditions.
Clarify home inspection procedure and preparation, and point out which additional inspections may be applicable. Council and prepare your repairs request to meet legal contract requirements.
Make sure the appraisal process is handled properly and provide comparables when indicated.
See that any repairs are completed and lender requirements are met prior to closing.
Walk you through the escrow, closing and title routine.
Review the HUD1 figures and closing documentation for accuracy and thoroughness.
Define what the final walk-through process will entail and how it may affect you.
Advise as to what course of action should be taken if the closing is delayed.
See that each phase of the process is handled professionally and in your best interest.