Buyers Guide - Barb Hecht

BUYER’S

guide

PREPARED ESPECIALLY FOR YOU BY

BARB HECHT One Heck(t) of a REALTOR®

®

BARB HECHT One Heck(t) of a REALTOR® M: 970.201.3994 O: 970.242.3647 barbhecht@brayandco.com www.BarbHechtGJ.com

getting to know

BARB HECHT One Heck(t) of a REALTOR® With over 30 years of experience and a well-earned reputation as one of Grand Junction’s most trusted real estate professionals, Barb Hecht truly lives up to her tagline—One Heck(t) of a REALTOR®. Since beginning her career in 1990, Barb has built a legacy of excellence grounded in expertise, integrity, and genuine care for her clients.

Barb joined Bray Real Estate in 1993, quickly becoming an indispensable part of the team and earning “Rookie of the Year” in 2006. Since then, she’s grown her own business while maintaining close ties to the community and her clients. Her track record includes awards like the Circle of Excellence and a long list of happy buyers and sellers who describe her as responsive, knowledgeable, professional, and kind.

Known for going above and beyond, Barb is a pro at navigating complex transactions and making real estate feel easy—even fun. From first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors, her clients praise her ability to stay calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and offer expert advice at every turn. She often finds buyers before a property even hits the market and handles the details so clients can focus on their next chapter.

Whether you’re buying your dream home or selling your current one, Barb brings the experience, insight, and heart to guide you through it. She’s not just your agent—she’s your advocate, advisor, and biggest cheerleader.

Congratulations on starting down the path to buying a home!

At Bray Real Estate, we know it can feel like a scary, life-changing step. You can trust that I’ll be here to guide you every step of the way.

As your dedicated, full-time real estate advisor, I am here to answer all of your questions and use my knowledge and experience to guide you through this journey.

While the home-buying process can be ever-changing and sometimes stressful, as your REALTOR®, I have mastered this process and promise to be there for you.

SO, LET'S GET STARTED!

the benefits of HOMEOWNERSHIP Studies have shown that homeownership has a significant and positive impact on net-worth, educational achievement, civic participation, health, and overall quality of life.

Owning a home is one of the best ways to build long-term and generational wealth. Historically, a homeowner's net-worth ranges from 31 to 46 times greater than that of a renter.

Owning a home offers many tax advantages, which can help save money.

Homeowners have the freedom to redecorate and renovate their homes as they wish.

A fixed-rate mortgage provides stable housing costs, while rent can typically increase 3% or more per year.

Homeowners are usually happier and healthier, enjoying the pride of owning a home of their own.

With just a click of button, you can find your new home by using

BarbHechtGJ.com

You can customize your search by location, price, size, neighborhood and more. I can set up personalized alerts and send you notifications via text, call or email based on your requirements.

Meet With Barb Hecht One Heck(t) of a REALTOR ® to Discuss Your Needs

Meet with a Mortgage Lender for Pre-Approval

buying PROCESS

Start the Home Search Process

HOME SELECTION! Prepare and Present an Offer

Negotiation & Final Agreement

Finalize Loan Mortgage Application & Processing

Inspection Title Commitment Appraisal

Mortgage Commitment & Closing Review

CLOSE & MOVE IN!

home buying FAQS WHAT IF MY OFFER IS NOT ACCEPTED AND I LOSE THE HOME? This is one of those hard truths; it can happen and you need to prepare yourself for this possibility. Depending on the market, you are competing to buy a home and multiple offers can be presented. Your offer may not be the one that is accepted and this is where the trust and relationship Barb is important. Do not lose hope; there are always more homes to look at.

HOW CAN I BE SURE THAT THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE HOME I AM BUYING? Barb will connect you with a qualified home inspector who will thoroughly examine the physical condition of the home and all of its systems. The inspector will provide you with a detailed report of the home's condition. You will have an understanding of any potential issues with the home before moving forward with the transaction.

HOW CAN I MAKE SURE THAT I DON'T OVERLOOK A PROPERTY FOR SALE THAT MEETS MY NEEDS? One of the most important tasks for Barb is to uncover ® every property that might be of interest to you. They are uniquely qualified to accomplish this through their network of highly experienced and productive sales partners in Western Colorado and beyond, finding properties that are not yet on the market. With their partnership with Leading Real Estate Companies of the World network, they can assist you wherever you may go.

HOW CAN I BE SURE THAT I AM NOT PAYING TOO MUCH FOR A PROPERTY? All markets are local so it’s important to receive an overview of the market and a detailed market analysis on the home you are buying before making an offer.

Barb will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

benefits of working with BARB HECHT - ONE HECK(T) OF A REALTOR® AS YOUR TRUSTED REAL ESTATE ADVISOR AND REALTOR® WITH BRAY REAL ESTATE, WE ARE CONSISTENTLY RECOGNIZED FOR OUR PRODUCTIVITY AND COMMITMENT TO OUR CLIENTS AND THE COMMUNITIES WE SERVE. MY SOLE FOCUS IS TO HELP YOU PURCHASE A HOME AND FEEL GOOD ABOUT IT.

MY COMMITMENT TO YOU: I will give you the confidence to do something scary and life-changing.

Anticipate and find answers for the questions you don’t know to ask.

Tell you what is and what is not a problem with the house you want to buy.

I will use the data and knowledge born from my experience to help you have full confidence with your offer.

I will leverage my relationships with everyone from house cleaners to loan offices to ensure you get everything you need.

I will ensure you don’t feel like you have made a mistake, bad decision, or placed yourself in a financial hardship.

I will create a customized solution for you based on your specific needs and timing.

I will provide you with detailed information about the the local market and current trends.

I will help save you time by sifting through potential property matches and previewing homes for sale.

I will use my knowledge and experience to assist you with negotiations to achieve the best possible price and terms.

I will track all the dates in the contract to ensure that important deadlines are met.

I will attend your closing with you to ensure that all questions are answered and all last-minute details are complete.

I am committed to a strict code of ethics that puts YOU first!

the importance of BUYER REPRESENTATION YOUR HOME BUYING ADVOCATE AND TRUSTED ADVISOR Having representation from a Buyer’s Agent is the only way that you can be confident that you have someone looking out for your best interests and allowing you to make informed real estate decisions.

ALIGNMENT WITH A PROFESSIONAL Our high-quality reputation is backed by our membership in Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®; an invitation-only global community in over 70 countries.

Membership is awarded to firms based on rigorous standards for service and performance.

UNPARALLELED MARKET KNOWLEDGE Our brokerage is rooted in the communities we serve. We possess deep local knowledge, an understanding of local housing regulations, and trends to help you make smarter, informed decisions. We bring an authentic “Main Street” perspective to real estate that many of our competitors cannot claim.

NEGOTIATION WITH MARKET EXPERTISE Understanding your goals, desires and concerns is fundamental to skillful negotiation, coupled with strong market knowledge and financial acumen. Your Buyer’s Agent will work on your behalf and negotiate the best possible price and terms for your home purchase.

SERVICES TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS Our services are distinctive, extensive, and personalized for you, as our long-standing reputation was built on consistently delivering high performance to every client. Our strong local culture is well-aligned with your market-specific needs.

A STREAMLINED PROCESS Your Buyer’s Agent will simplify the process and guide you through the necessary steps, making the most efficient use of your time. From your home search and negotiation to contract and closing. These are just some of the steps where your Buyer’s Agent will facilitate.

✓ Market Analysis ✓ Lender Pre-Approval ✓ Offer ✓ Negotiation ✓ Contract Review and Approval ✓ Purchase Agreement Finalized ✓ Home Loan Approval

✓ Inspection/Due Diligence ✓ Apply for Home Insurance ✓ Title Exam ✓ Loan Approval ✓ Prepare Finances and Documents for Closing

we can assist you

ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD As an affiliate of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World,® we have access to the highest caliber of real estate professionals in over 70 countries, across six continents. When buying or selling property outside of our local market, our world-class connections can help with real estate needs throughout our continent and to points around the globe. Let us introduce you to a carefully selected sales associate that will provide you with extraordinary service — anywhere your real estate needs take you. Our global network is comprised of the very best real estate companies and the most talented professionals in the world.

WORLD-CLASS SERVICE. WORLD-CLASS INTRODUCTIONS.

550

companies

4,800

134,000

offices

sales associates

INTRODUCTIONS MADE IN 84 COUNTRIES IN 2023

400 CLIENT INTRODUCTIONS MADE WEEKLY WORLDWIDE

19,000 CLIENT INTRODUCTIONS MADE EACH YEAR

70+

countries

© 2024 Leading Real Estate Companies of the World.® All Rights Reserved. | C–WorldClassService. 05.23. Equal Housing Opportunity.

house hunting CHECKLIST THE HOME

YES!

MAYBE?

NO!

FEATURES

FLOOR PLAN

LAUNDRY APPLIANCES

HEATING & AC

KITCHEN APPLIANCES

ROOF

BACKYARD

GARAGE

POOL/HOT TUB

EXTRA BEDROOMS

PATIO

PRIMARY BEDROOM

LOT

LAUNDRY ROOM

SECURITY SYSTEM

KITCHEN

NEIGHBORHOOD

DINING ROOM

SURROUNDING HOMES

LIVING AREA

NOISE LEVEL

EXTERIOR CONDITION

TRAFFIC

CURB APPEAL

PROXIMITY

YES!

MAYBE?

NO!

YES!

MAYBE?

NO!

SCHOOLS

NOTES

ZERO IN ON THE THINGS YOU HAVE TO HAVE, WANT TO HAVE, AND CAN DO WITHOUT. UNDERSTANDING YOUR LIFESTYLE AND NEEDS WILL MAKE THE SEARCH PROCESS EASIER AND HELP TO ELIMINATE THE HOMES THAT SIMPLY WILL NOT FIT.

offer strategies FOR THE WIN PREPARING AN OFFER THAT PUTS YOU IN THE BEST POSITION TO BE ACCEPTED

APPRAISAL

PRICE

SELLER EXPERIENCE

TIMING FINANCING INSPECTION

When you find "the one," I will walk you through each of these items.

We'll work together to determine the best strategy to make your offer a strong one!

your ultimate MOVING CHECKLIST 8 WEEKS BEFORE Create a file for all moving related documents Set a budget for moving expenses Get estimates, review documents a choose a moving company and set a date Get rid of items you don’t want - sell or donate

Separate items that movers won’t handle Request time off of work Give notice to local service providers Notify schools of move and find new schools, if necessary Start using up frozen foods

4-7 WEEKS BEFORE Notify family and friends of the move - ask for help Gather items you’ll need during the move - BOXES! Create inventory of items Make travel arrangements Gather all important records - medical, legal, ect

Notify your insurance company Get rid of hazardous materials you cannot move Find new service providers Start packing non-essential items

2-3 WEEKS BEFORE LABEL BOXES Create a folder for bills and receipts Update your drivers license, car registration and voter registration Submit change of address online with USPS

Notify service providers Drain fluids from small engines: lawn mower, ect.

Return borrowed items, collect borrowed items Back up your computers Take care of plants

1 WEEK BEFORE Finish packing - mark all boxes Confirm details with movers Cancel remaining services Pack personal items

Clean old home / Clean new home Cancel or redirect pending deliveries Withdraw cash Check the weather

MOVING DAY Empty fridge/freezer and unplug Disconnect all appliances Walk through house with movers - advise of special details or packing instructions Review final bill of landing from movers Last minute inspection and final cleaning

Stay goodbye to old neighbors and leave contact information Turn off lights, lock windows and doors, surrender keys, shut off furnace, air conditioner and water heater Unpack the essentials at new home Go grocery shopping Put up curtains

AFTER MOVING DAY Install security system Explore new neighborhood, say hello to new neighbors Change the locks and make copies of keys Check smoke alarms Schedule maintenance work

Thank your Bray REALTOR Leave the moving company a review Let your family and friends know you made it UNPACK RELAX & ENJOY YOUR NEW HOME

homebuyer’s GLOSSARY

ADJUSTABLE-RATE MORTGAGE (ARM) A mortgage that permits the lender to adjust the interest rate periodically on the basis of changes in a specified index.

LIEN The legal claim against a property that must be satisfied before the property may be sold.

AMORTIZATION SCHEDULE A timetable schedule showing the amount of each payment applied to interest and principal and the remaining balance after each payment is made.

LOCK-IN A written agreement in which the lender guarantees a specified interest rate if a mortgage goes to closing within a set period of time.

ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE (APR) The cost of a mortgage stated as a yearly rate; includes such items as interest, mortgage, and loan origination fee.

MORTGAGE A legal document that pledges a property to the lender as security for payment of the debt.

APPRAISAL A written analysis of the estimated value of a property prepared by a qualified appraiser.

MORTGAGE INSURANCE A contract that insures the lender against loss caused by a mortgagor's default on a government mortgage or a conventional mortgage.

CERTIFICATE OF TITLE A statement provided by an abstract company or attorney stating that the title to real estate is legally held by the current owner.

CLOSING A meeting at which a sale of a property is finalized by the buyer signing the mortgage documents, paying closing costs, and transfer of the deed to the property.

COLLATERAL An asset (such as a car or a home) that guarantees the repayment of a loan.

COMMISSION The fee charged by a broker or agent for providing services related to the real estate transaction such as marketing the property, bringing the parties together, and negotiating a purchase contract or loan.

DEED The legal conveying title to a property.

EARNEST MONEY DEPOSIT A deposit made by the potential home buyer to show that he or she is serious about buying the house.

EQUITY A homeowner's financial interest in a property.

FAIR CREDIT REPORTING ACT A consumer protection law that regulates the disclosure of consumer reports by consumer/credit reporting agencies and establishes procedures for correcting mistakes on one's credit record.

HOME INSPECTION A thorough inspection that evaluates the structural and mechanical condition of a property.

NET-WORTH The value of all of a person's assets, including cash, minus all liabilities.

PRIME RATE The interest rate that banks charge to their preferred customers.

PRINCIPAL The amount borrowed or remaining unpaid.

REAL ESTATE AGENT A person licensed to negotiate and transact the sale of real estate on behalf of the property owner.

REALTOR® A registered collective membership mark which identifies real estate professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribe to its strict Code of Ethics.

SURVEY A drawing or map showing the precise legal boundaries of a property, the location of improvements, easements, rights of way, encroachment, and other physical features.

TITLE SEARCH A check of the title records to ensure that the seller is the legal owner of the property and that there are no liens or other claims outstanding.

TRUTH-IN-LENDING A federal law that requires lenders to fully disclose, in writing, the terms and conditions of a mortgage, including the annual percentage rate and other charges.

UNDERWRITING The process of evaluating a loan application to determine the risk involved for the lender.

your support TEAM

OUR TEAM AND BUSINESS PARTNERS WORK DIRECTLY WITH OUR AGENTS TO ASSIST YOU FROM START TO FINISH.

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Our Director of First Impressions greets guests when they arrive in the office and directs questions or needs to the appropriate people.

MARKETING TEAM Our Marketing team works directly with our agents, helping to provide sophisticated marketing strategies and solutions that are on trend and at the forefront of the market.

LEADERSHIP Our leadership team oversees the office and our agents while guiding them when needed. They can help troubleshoot any issues should they arise. From our office manager to our President, we are all a team.

Our in-house title company, Guaranteed Title Group, provides title insurance and closing services. They work closely with our agents to ensure that a clear title and documents are correct and delivered on time.

Our in-house mortgage company, Group Mortgage, LLC is a full-service mortgage banker founded on the principle of lending with excellence, integrity and distinction. Group Mortgage, LLC is committed to an on-time closing and a streamlined, satisfying home-financing experience.

Our partnership with Collective Insurance Group provides an all-in-one insurance solution. Whether you require home and auto insurance, coverage for your small business, or even home warranties, Collective Insurance offers a wide range of resources to streamline your insurance experience, with an unwavering commitment to safeguard what matters most to you.

WE ARE NINJA. Ninja is a training system based on a philosophy of building relationships, listening to your customer, and helping them achieve their goals. It is a philosophy that rejects pushy sales tactics.

caring for our HOME COMMUNITY For over 75 years, Bray & Company has been committed to giving back to the local community through volunteering and financial support of many different nonprofit organizations.

The Bray Cares Foundation was created to help serve housing-related needs on the Western Slope with grant opportunities, such as: Provide emergency shelter and/or rent assistance Offer affordable housing and housing for people living with special needs Provide services to help seniors stay in their homes Assist veterans with housing needs "Over the years, our company has contributed to a variety of organizations here in the community.

We think it is time to focus our efforts a little more and increase both our funding and our leadership in the area of housing-related needs in Mesa County," says Robert Bray, CEO. During the COVID-19 crisis, Bray & Company launched the Caring for Our Home Community fund to enable full-service dine-in restaurants to provide healthy meals through local nonprofits. In 2020, the company raised and delivered over $60,000 to local restaurants that were hit hard by the pandemic, and in turn they were able to serve over 8,500 meals to those in need.

Bray & Company also volunteers regularly with Habitat for Humanity and Kids Aid.

What my clients are saying...

I am very happy with the sale of my mother's house. Barb was great...any questions we had she had an answer for us and was helpful in anyway we needed. Everything happened pretty fast but it all went smoothly and we thank Barb so much for all her help.

DARLA

Barb is a friendly person. I enjoyed having her as our realtor. The selling of our mother’s home was very smooth. Nice to have someone help us that had experience and knowledge to help get us through it.

SHARON

Barb was great, we had a roller coaster of a sale but she stayed calm and answered all our questions and chased all our concerns.

Second home bought with Barb.

MACKENZIE

Barb has been such a wonderful person.

Thank her for us. She’s such a great person!!

SHARON

let’s work together!

I enjoyed working with Barb. She was very professional & responded to all my texts and emails promptly. She put the word out to all her contacts and found a buyer for my condo before it hit the market. I would definitely recommend Barb for any of your real estate needs.

GERALD

Barb is the utmost professional. She worked tirelessly to help me find a home! She is very knowledgeable and advised me well. Barb is also caring and friendly.

TRACY

Barb was fantastic and took great care of us. We bought and sold a house through her and I would highly recommend her.

NORMAN Barb is wonderful to work with, she is always right on top of things. Barb goes above and beyond for her clients.

RONALD

What my clients are saying...

Barb is an experienced, professional, and very knowledgeable Realtor. Throughout the process of selling our home with a relocation company Barb effectively negotiated a complicated process and stayed in constant contact with us. We were very pleased with the printed marketing material and the regular emails received about the showings and feedback. We would recommend Barb to anyone we know buying or selling a home in the Grand Junction area.

JENNIFER

Barb is amazing. Always attentive and dependable. Wouldn't trust anyone else.

KEVIN

Barb did a great job for us! We had moved out prior to sell and she help with watching the house and helping with items. Very much appreciated.

CHRISTINA Barb Hecht's communication and suggestions during the offer/counter offer process was constant and appreciated. Her efforts to keep us on track with deadlines and throughout the transaction and post transaction process was great.

JACK

Barb is an amazing Realtor. She took such good care of us to find us the right house.

RITA

Barb Hecht helped us purchase our Grand Junction home in 2017. She also handled the sale of our home 5 years later. Both times, Barb went above & beyond to provide the best advice and help. She is always available and very thorough. My husband & I highly recommend Barb and Bray Real Estate.

DEBORAH

Barb is always wonderful to work with!

Will miss her as we move away.

Barb was wonderful to work with. She made things easy with the purchase of our home and always available to answer our questions.

LIBRADA

ELIZABETH

let’s work together!

Thank you for allowing me to be your advocate and trusted advisor. This buyer's guide has been prepared especially for you as you start on this journey.

Let me put my energy and experience to work for you!

www.BarbHechtGJ.com 970.201.3994 | barbhecht@brayandco.com

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by Bray & Co.

Published by Bray & Co | ©2025 | 970.242.3647