Buyer's Guide

We are a geographically diverse team representing buyers and sellers in all of Northern Virginia and in all walks of life: from first-time buyers, experienced buyers/ sellers, active adults, families who are downsizing/ rightsizing, to multigenerational families. We are heavily involved with the military on a personal and professional level as well as representing investors, developers, and builders. We tailor our support based on your knowledge and experience; an approach that has led to consistent referrals and repeat business. My years of experience, in real estate, lending, and interior design, have helped build a support network of industry professionals. This network enables us to provide you with options to make your house more marketable when selling or your home more personal after buying. My interior design experience helps you to merge your desires and needs into a vision of the possible. Our long-term, industry relationships can help you implement your vision and achieve your goals quickly and efficiently-helping create the perfect home.

Notice I said to decide on your budget—not determine how much the mortgage company will give you. In many cases, a mortgage company will pre-approve you for more than you’re comfortable spending, which is why you need to determine the monthly payment you feel comfortable with before talking to a lender. This likely includes doing a full household budget and taking into consideration what changes other than a mortgage payment will occur once you move into your new home. If you’ve lived in an apartment or with roommates, you may overlook new expenses like garbage, water, or HOA fees that could easily blow your budget.

Just because you think you can afford a certain payment every month doesn’t mean the mortgage company will agree. Just as they may approve you for too large of an amount, they may also approve you for a lesser amount or deny you a mortgage altogether. Lack of time at a job, insufficient credit, past bankruptcies, or other financial issues can cause major problems when trying to secure a mortgage. Before you get your heart set on a home, talk to a mortgage professional to find out what amount you can qualify for. This will also be an advantage when you make an offer on a home, as some sellers won’t entertain offers from those who aren’t already prequalified for a loan.

Once you have selected the perfect home, work with your agent to craft a fair offer based on the value of comparable homes on the market. Depending on what the home is listed at and whether the current environment is a buyer’s or seller’s market, your offer may be below, at, or even above the asking price. I will be able to help you craft the best offer by gathering intel to help you make an educated decision based on desires, motivations, and risk tolerance. I will be able to negotiate if you receive a counteroffer and reach an agreement. At this point, the house will go into escrow.

Sellers typically prefer offers with no conditions. However, I believe it's essential to consider your protection. In some cases, I may suggest including a condition, such as passing a professional home inspection, and we can discuss the best approach for your specific situation.

Once we've decided on the right approach, I will take care of preparing all the necessary documents and personally present your offer to the seller and their real estate agent. In the event that the offer isn't immediately accepted or a counter-offer is made, I will skillfully negotiate on your behalf, working closely with the seller's agent to secure a deal that meets your needs.

Throughout the entire process, I will maintain open and transparent communication with you. You will always be informed and involved in the decision-making process. Once the seller agrees to the deal, I will guide you through the process of removing any conditions and finalizing the closing. Congratulations, the home will soon be yours!

I understand that making an offer can be nerve-wracking, but it doesn't have to be. When you choose to work with me, a real estate agent who prioritizes clients' interests, you can feel confident and assured. Pursuing a property you truly desire becomes a smoother journey when you have an expert like me on your side, dedicated to getting you the home you want.

Your lender will have your new home appraised so they have their independent value of it. The appraisal is to ensure that all parties involved are paying a fair price for the house. And complete the following: Earnest money deposit, locking in interest rate, Home inspection (if contingent) , radon inspection (if contingent), appraisal, title search, survey, financing contingency, walk-thru, home warranty, etc.