For Buyers
Buying your home
The thrill of the search, the excitement of the deal, and the right people in your corner. Here’s everything you need to know, from pre-approval to keys.
Getting Started
Three steps before you shop
Meet with us
Laura sends a quick form so we know what you’re looking for. Then we sit down, walk through the process, and set expectations together.
Get pre-approved
Knowing exactly what you can comfortably spend keeps the search focused and stress-free. We’ll connect you with trusted loan officers our past clients love.
Search smarter
We set you up on an MLS search, the most accurate source out there, so you’re alerted the moment a home that fits hits the market.
Making an Offer
What goes into your offer
Much of the purchase agreement is standard. These are the pieces we’ll decide on together.
Price
Based on the home’s condition, time on market, buyer activity, and seller motivation. We pull comparables to land on the right number.
Earnest money
Paid once your offer is accepted and applied toward your down payment. Typically at least 1% of the price, and more can help you stand out.
Seller contributions
Money from the seller at closing to help cover your closing costs. Your loan officer will tell us if and how much to ask for.
Inspection days
Usually 10 days. A shorter window can make your offer more attractive, as long as your inspector is available.
Closing date
Flexibility on timing can make the seller more likely to choose your offer.
The seller’s response
The seller can accept, reject, or counter. If they counter, we review every term together and negotiate for you.
Plan Ahead
Costs to budget for
Beyond your down payment, here are the out-of-pocket costs to expect.
Typical ranges. Your actual costs may vary.
Step by Step
The buying timeline
From the first conversation to the closing table, here’s how we get you home.
Meet with us
Laura sends a quick form so we can learn what you’re looking for. Then we sit down together, walk through the process, and set expectations.
Get pre-approved
Know exactly what you can comfortably spend before you start looking. We’ll connect you with trusted loan officers our past clients love.
Search for homes
We set you up on an MLS search so you’re alerted the moment a home that fits hits the market. You pick favorites online, we tour them together, and we adjust as we go.
Make an offer
We pull comparables and help you decide on price, earnest money (typically at least 1% of the price), seller contributions, inspection days, and closing date.
Negotiate
The seller can accept, reject, or counter. If there’s a counteroffer, we review every term together and negotiate the best price and terms for you.
Under contract
Time to celebrate, but not pack just yet. Laura emails your next steps right away, and your earnest money is due. From here, we’ll keep you posted through every milestone.
Inspection
Optional, but we highly recommend it. An inspector checks the home’s condition, typically within 10 days of your accepted offer. Expect around $300 to $600 depending on size, plus $150 to $200 if you add radon testing. If anything comes up, we negotiate repairs or credits on your behalf.
Appraisal
Your lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home is worth what you’re paying. It typically runs $500 to $750. If the value comes in low, we’ll talk through your options and negotiate next steps.
Final details
Once your loan is clear to close, it’s time to pack, set up utilities, schedule the final walk-through, and forward your mail. Laura helps with all of it.
Closing day
Sellers typically pre-sign ahead of time, so you get a private closing at your title company at a time that works for you. Bring your driver’s license and a cashier’s check for the amount your loan officer provides. We’ll be right there with you.
Welcome home!
Congratulations, you’re officially homeowners.
The Big Day
Closing
Closing day in Minnesota
Sellers typically pre-sign with the title company ahead of time, so you get a private closing at your title company at a time that works for you. We’ll be right there with you. Bring your driver’s license and a cashier’s check for the amount your loan officer provides.Good Questions
Buyer FAQs
How will we hear about new homes?
We watch the MLS for new listings that fit your criteria and send them your way right away, by text, call, or email, whatever works best for you.
Do you only show Keller Williams listings?
No. We keep you informed on every home on the market, no matter which brokerage has it listed.
Can you help with new construction?
Yes. We work with most builders and will join you on your first visit so you have someone in your corner.
What about For Sale By Owner homes?
We can reach out to the owner and set up a showing for you. Most owners are happy to work with an agent who brings a buyer.
Can we see the home again after making an offer?
Usually, yes. We’ll coordinate a time with the seller, and you’ll have a final walk-through right before closing.
Ready to Start Looking?