Buying A Home

The housing market in Washington, DC area can be complicated. So, what can you do to ensure that you get the house that you want?

Choose Michelle Buckman to be your Washington DC Buyer's Agent. Michelle will help you check off these home buyer's to-do's, and before you know it, you'll have the home of your dreams.

  • Get pre-qualified for a mortgage. Michelle can connect you with a Washington DC lender suited to your needs. You are in a much better position to make an offer if you are pre-approved for a mortgage.
  • Narrow down your DC home search. Michelle will help you focus on exactly what you want, so that the Washington DC homes you see will meet your wants and needs.
  • Make an offer on the home. Michelle will help you to submit an appropriate written offer.
  • Reach an agreement to purchase the Washington DC home. Michelle is your liaison, and will negotiate on your behalf with the seller. She'll help you to agree on the price and terms, including the settlement date.
  • Michelle will extend a contract of sale, and you'll place a deposit in a Trust Account.
  • Finalize your mortgage application with your lending representative.
  • Deposit all Earnest money into the Trust Account.
  • Inspections are completed (pest and other inspections as required or desired.) Michelle will share the inspection results with you, and let you know if this affects your purchase.
  • Final financing information is collected for the mortgage commitment
  • Your mortgage is approved!
  • Obtain homeowners insurance prior to closing, if required. Michelle can recommend an insurance company that is suited to your needs.
  • Confirm closing with Michelle, who will work with you to set the best time and date for settlement.
  • Confirm transfer of utilities with Michelle.
  • Review final closing cost from attorney of lender.
  • On settlement day, bring:
    • Confirmation of your homeowners insurance policy
    • A certified check for closing settlement costs
    • Your checkbook for any incidental costs.
  • What to expect at settlement:
    • Mortgage and other documents are signed
    • Adjustments are made for miscellaneous items (taxes, heating oil, etc.)
    • The seller is paid, and you receive the title (or deed) and the keys to your new home!
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