Step 1: Get Pre-Qualified

 

This is the most important part of the process - yet it gets skipped a lot. Buyer's often decide they want to find the right house before getting qualified. There are several disadvantages to not getting pre-qualified before seeing homes including:

  • You may not be able to afford the houses you’re looking at

  • You may be able to afford more than the houses you’re looking at

  • You may be wasting your time, and the time of others, if there’s something you’re missing in your financials

On the flip side, There are several advantages to getting pre-qualified.

  • You will be shopping with confidence, knowing exactly what you qualify for

  • You will be equipped with knowledge and clarity around your home-buying goal

  • Speaking with a lender that has the heart of a teacher will give you a greater level of confidence in the process

  • The professionals you’re working with will be more committed to you as a serious buyer

  • You will be less susceptible to losing out on your dream house once you’ve found it

  • Any seller will require a pre-qualification letter with your offer to even consider responding to the offer

Check out our Buyer Resources page to check out our preferred lender.

Step 2: Find an Agent

 

Finding a Local Agent that fits your needs and has your values. Speak to 2-3 agents. Do some research. Don’t pick the first agent you speak to. Find an agent that has the heart of a teacher, and someone that will ask you questions and listen to what you’re looking for. Top agents will often have market updates and can let you know what’s going on in the market you’re looking in. The best agents are also very knowledgable about the inventory in the market. They also have access to off-market listings that haven’t hit the market yet. The best houses and the best deals are often gone before they hit the market.

Step 3: Search for Homes

 

Once you’re pre-qualified with your lender (if obtaining a loan) and have selected an agent, you can begin your search! Call your agent and tell them what you’re looking for. If you’re not totally sure, check out our Big Bear Areas page to do some research, or ask your agent what they recommend. Your agent will send you around 5-10 properties to take a look at. Giving feedback to your agent about what you like and what you don’t like is key. Search properties for yourself as well, and let your agent know what you’re liking. Remember, a good agent often has 10 properties in mind that aren’t even on the market yet - and one of those could be the one.

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