Buying a home
How We Help You Buy, Step by Step
From pre-approval to closing day, here's exactly what buying a home with Sheri Francis looks like on the South Coast, step by step, no surprises.
The short version
Most agents start by showing you houses. I start by making sure that when you find the one you want, you're actually in a position to get it. That means pre-approval before we tour anything, an honest look at what your budget really buys, a search built around what you actually want instead of everything on the market, and someone walking you through every step from offer to keys, so you're never guessing what happens next.
Ready: Get pre-approved before we start touring
Before we look at a single home together, I want you pre-approved. It's not a formality, it's so you know exactly what you can actually afford before you fall for something out of range. I work side by side with a handful of local lenders I trust, and I'll give you suggestions for who to talk to.
Once pre-approval is in place, we're not just hoping the numbers work later, we already know. That's what lets everything after this move quickly and with confidence instead of starting over every time something falls through.
How We Help You Buy, Step by Step
Educated: Know your real numbers before you're under contract
Before you're deep into a search, I walk you through what buying a home actually costs beyond the purchase price, so none of it catches you off guard once you're under contract. That includes earnest money when you make an offer, an out-of-pocket cost for the inspection, and an out-of-pocket cost for the bank appraisal.
Your lender will lay out exactly what you'll need at purchase and sale, which depends on your loan type, first-time buyer programs, VA, or conventional financing all work differently. I also let you know up front that you should expect closing costs, and you'll go through the specifics of those with your attorney.
Aligned: A search built around what you actually want
Once you're pre-approved, we sit down and figure out what you're really looking for and how quickly you want to move. That plan is what keeps your search focused on homes that fit, instead of scrolling through everything on the market in a given town.
Locked: From offer to the keys in your hand
Once you find the one, I walk you through exactly what happens next: the offer, any negotiations we need to work through, the inspection, financing, and closing. I also suggest a closing attorney to work alongside us, so everything gets handled correctly and legally from offer to close.
Whether you're relocating to the South Coast or buying your first home here, the goal is the same: you know what's happening at every step, and there are no surprises waiting for you at the closing table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be pre-approved before you'll show me homes?
Yes. I require pre-approval before we start touring, so you know exactly what you can afford before you get attached to a home that's out of range. I can suggest local lenders I work with regularly.
What will I need to pay out of pocket before closing?
Earnest money when you make an offer, an inspection cost, and a bank appraisal cost are the main ones. Your lender will tell you exactly what you'll need at purchase and sale based on your loan type, and your attorney will walk you through any closing costs.
Do I need a real estate attorney to buy a home?
I suggest a closing attorney for every purchase, so everything is handled correctly and legally, from the purchase and sale agreement through closing day.
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Ready to make your move with Sheri Francis?