Vacation Rentals and Second Homes experts in the Gulf Coast and beyond.
Consistent 2024 Top Producers
Broker Circle of Excellence Award Winner for achieving $22M in total sales volume in a year.
Voted Best Realtor in Galveston by Galveston.com for 3 consecutive years (2019-2021).
You don't just have one agent working for you YOU HAVE A TEAM.
ABOUT CYNTHIA CORDER
Cynthia Corder leads the fastest-growing real estate team in Galveston, Texas The Corder Team, delivering exceptional, personalized experiences tailored to each client’s unique goals. Specializing in vacation rentals and second homes, she offers a luxury-level experience for everyclient.
Cynthia's commitment to excellence has earned her numerous accolades, including nominations for Listing Enterprise Team of the Year and Commercial Team of the Year,andbeingnamedBestRealtorinGalvestonforthree consecutive years She has received the Diamond Circle of Excellence Award for achieving remarkable sales volume and is recognized in the top 1% company-wide for sales performance Furthermore, she ranks among the top 3 agents in Galveston TX for successfully helping clients achieve their real estate goals. As a Certified Luxury Marketing Specialist, Certified Pricing Strategy Advisor, and Accredited Luxury Home Specialist she provides unparalleled expertise across various property types,fromsingle-familyhomestocommercialspaces
Understanding that buying or selling a home is a significant life event, Cynthia offers personalized guidance every step of the way, empowering clients to navigate the market with confidence Cynthia Corderaimsnotjusttosellhomesbuttorepresentyou forlife
3 Consecutive years
Voted Best Realtor
I am passionate about helping my clients reach their personal real estate goals I work tirelessly for my clients and efficiently get the work done from contract to close Circle of Excellence Awardee
ACCREDITED LUXURY HOME SPECIALIST DESIGNATIONS
CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST
AWARDS & ACHIEVEMENTS
BROKER 2024 TOP PRODUCERS
Broker Circle of Excellence Awardee
Note:
TESTIMONIALS
Amy Heeger
Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful!! Cynthia and her team go above and beyond You don’t understand how good an agent can be until you use Cynthia
TaylorRivas
Cynthia was a wonderful realtor to work with! She stays on top of each part of the process and gracefully follows through. In general, we were very pleased with her and found it peaceful working together Thanks so much Cynthia for helping us find our dream home!
BrendaRodgers
Cynthia was such a pleasure to work with. She has done several transactions for me Selling 2 rental properties and my home and purchasing a new home. If there were more stars I would give her 10 she has been amazing through it all
MichaelCrespo
Cynthia was on top of everything and her communications to us during the process were excellent. We always knew what was coming and what was happening. We were extremely pleased with her efforts. Highly recommend.
90 Ways We Serve You
Educate on Sales Contract Options 49. Determine Need for Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
50. Explain Home Warranty Options
51. Update Pre-Approval Letter with Each New Offer 52. Discuss Loan Objection Deadlines 53. Choose a Closing Date
54. Verify Listing Data Is Correct 55. Review Comps to Determine Value
56. Prepare & Submit Offer to Listing Agent 57 Negotiate Offer with Listing Agent
58 Execute A Sales Contract & Disclosures
59 Once Under Contract, Send to Escrow Company
60 Coordinate Earnest Money Wire Transfer
61 Deliver Copies to Mortgage Lender
62 Obtain Copy of Sellers Disclosures
63 Deliver Copies of Contract/Addendum
64 Obtain A Copy of HOA Bylaws
65. Keep Track of Copies for Office File
66. Coordinate Inspections
67. Meet Home Inspector at The Property
68. Review Home Inspection
69. Negotiate Inspection Objections
70. Get All Agreed Upon Repair Items in Writing
71. Verify any Existing Lease Agreements
72. Check in With Lender To Verify Loan Status
73. Check on the Appraisal Date
74. Negotiate Any Unsatisfactory Appraisals
75. Coordinate Closing Times & Location
76. Make Sure All Documents Are Fully Signed
77. Verify Escrow Company Has Everything Needed
78. Reminder to Schedule Utilities Transfer
79 Make Sure All Parties Are Notified of Closing Time
80 Solve Any Title Problems Before Closing
81 Receive and Review Closing Documents
82 Review Closing Figures
83 Confirm Repairs Have Been Made by Sellers
84 Perform Final Walk-Through
85 Resolve Any Last-Minute Issues
86 Get CDA Signed by Brokerage
87. Attend Closing
88. Provide Home Warranty Paperwork
89. Facilitate Transfer of Keys and Accessories
90. Close Out File
STRATEGY SESSION
setting the foundation for your home buying journey
At The Corder Team, we believe knowledge is power, especially in real estate. That's why we've prepared a comprehensive guide and educational presentation to ensure you're well-informed about the home buying process, current market trends, and essential tips for navigating your purchase Our Buyer Strategy Sessions are designed to make you feel comfortable and confident in your home buying process We cover three main areas:
How you can succeed in the current market. How we protect you throughout the transaction. How we secure the best ideal possible under any circumstances.
BUYER’S GUIDE
Unlock the keys to homeownership with our exclusive Home Buyer Guide Book. This comprehensive resource provides you with an overview of the home buying process, a dream home checklist, tips on saving for your new home, insights into choosing the right lender, expert advice on offers and negotiations, essential do's and don'ts, and valuable information about working with realtors. Get started on your journey to your dream home today!
LET'S FIND YOU WHAT YOU WANT
WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS AND NON-NEGOTIABLES?
Before we begin the search for your dream home, it's essential to understand your goals and non-negotiables. This will help us tailor our search and provide you with the best possible options. Here are a few questions to consider:
What type of property are you looking for?
How many bedrooms & bathrooms?
What features or amenities are must-haves for you?
Are there any specific neighborhoods or areas you are interested in?
What is your timeline for purchasing a home?
Do you have any budgetary constraints we should be aware of?
Are there any other preferences or requirements you would like us to consider?
Lifestyle and Preferences
• Financial Considerations • Future Plans and Goals
• Location and Accessibility • Property Specifics • Community and Neighborhood • Timing and Flexibility
• Investment Goals (for investors)
UNDERSTANDING YOUR REPRESENTATION
Explaining Agency Relationships
WE WORK EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU, AS YOUR BUYER'S AGENT!
When you choose The Corder Team as your buyer's agent, you gain a dedicated advocate committed to your best interests throughout the home buying journey. Unlike listing agents who represent sellers, we work exclusively for you. When you call us, you're reaching out to a team that's dedicated to securing your future home on your terms.
Fiduciary Duty
A buyer's agent owes fiduciary duties to their client, which include loyalty, confidentiality, and the obligation to act in the buyer’s best interests. This means the agent must prioritize the buyer's needs and goals, keep their information confidential, and provide them with all relevant information that could affect their decision to buy a property.
Representation Agreement
To formally establish a buyer agency relationship, both the buyer and the agent typically enter into a Buyer’s Representation Agreement This contract outlines the agent’s responsibilities to the buyer, the terms of compensation, the duration of the agreement, and other terms and conditions under which the agent will perform
Duty to Disclose
The agent must disclose all material information that could influence the buyer's decisions. This includes revealing any defects of the property that are known, information about the neighborhood, and any other data that could impact the buyer's decision or the value of the property.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR REPRESENTATION
Explaining Agency Relationships
Negotiation
A buyer's agent negotiates on behalf of the buyer to try to secure the best possible price and terms This includes presenting offers and counteroffers and negotiating contract terms that align with the buyer's best interests
Guidance and Advice
The buyer's agent provides guidance and professional advice throughout the buying process. This includes helping the buyer understand market conditions, advising them on the amount to offer for a property, and explaining the pros and cons of different properties and neighborhoods.
Assistance with Transaction Management
The agent assists the buyer in managing the transaction process from start to finish. This involves coordinating with other professionals involved in the transaction such as lenders, inspectors, appraisers, and attorneys. The agent also helps in ensuring that all necessary paperwork is completed, deadlines are met, and the closing process goes smoothly.
Compensation
Under new National Association of Realtors (NAR) guidelines, buyer's agents' compensation can vary. While traditionally paid by the seller as a percentage of the selling price, recent changes promote transparency and flexibility. Buyers can now negotiate their agent's fee directly, which might be a flat fee, hourly rate, or percentage of the purchase price, and pay it directly. This aims to increase market fairness and buyer control over agent compensation.
The agent must avoid conflicts of interest and must not benefit at the expense of the buyer. This means the agent cannot accept compensation from any other party other than as agreed in the representation agreement without the buyer's informed consent.
HOW WILL I PAY FOR THE HOME?
DIFFERENT FINANCING OPTIONS FOR HOMEBUYERS
When it comes to buying a home, understanding your financing options is crucial. Here are some common methods to consider:
1. Conventional Loans
Fixed-rate mortgages offer stable interest rates, while adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) have rates that change over time based on market conditions.
2. FHA Loans
Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, these loans typically require lower down payments and are easier to qualify for than conventional loans.
3. VA Loans
Available to veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses, VA loans often require no down payment and offer favorable terms
4. USDA Loans
Designed for rural and suburban homebuyers, these loans usually require little to no down payment and offer competitive interest rates
5. Jumbo Loans
For high-value properties exceeding conventional loan limits, jumbo loans come with higher interest rates and stricter qualification requirements.
6. Down Payment Assistance Programs
Local and state programs can help with down payments and closing costs, each with specific eligibility requirements and benefits.
7. Seller Financing
In special cases, sellers may offer to finance the purchase directly, providing flexible terms through negotiation between buyer and seller.
Help Find a Mortgage Lender
As agents, we have built successful connections with trusted lenders and can help you find a lender that suits your situation. We can also connect you with credit repair services to ensure you're in the best position to buy your dream home.
HOW’S THE MARKET?
UNDERSTANDING THE CURRENT MARKET CONDITIONS
help you make an informed decision about buying a home.
FACTORS THAT MAY INFLUENCE YOUR DECISION
Market Trends
Home Prices: Current trends in property values.
Inventory Levels: Number of homes available.
Interest Rates: Current mortgage rates.
Buyer Demand
Competition: Level of interest from other buyers.
Bidding Wars: Potential for competitive offers.
Inventory Levels
Low Inventory: Fewer options, quicker decisions.
High Inventory: More choices, potentially more negotiating power.
Interest Rates:
Impact on Buying Power: How rates affect affordability. Monthly Payments: Influence on your budget.
THE PERFECT TIME TO BUY A HOUSE IS WHEN YOU ARE READY.
We're here to help you navigate the market and find the best opportunities based on your unique situation, including your personal readiness, long-term plans, and non-negotiables for your future home.
FIND YOUR DREAM HOME Faster Than Scrolling Through Zillow
Setting Up Alerts for New Listings
personalized property alerts that are more effective than Zillow When a new listing that matches your criteria hits the market, you'll receive an email notification directly to your inbox
This means you won't have to constantly check websites like Zillow instead, the latest listings come to you.
How It Works
Custom Criteria: We'll set up alerts based on your specific preferences, including location, price range, property type, and more
Prompt Notifications: As soon as a house that meets your criteria is listed, you'll receive an email notification
By setting up these alerts, you gain a competitive edge in the fast-paced real estate market Let us streamline your search process so you can focus on finding your dream home.
MLS Filtering (Multiple Listing Service)
We meticulously sift through the MLS database to find properties that match your specifications. Our thorough filtering ensures you receive a curated list of homes that meet your exact needs, saving you time and effort in your search
This also means you get early access to properties before they are publicly listed (coming soon), giving you a competitive edge to explore opportunities ahead of others in the market.
Off-Market Opportunities
Through our extensive network and relationships with local agents, we actively seek out off-market properties. These hidden gems can offer unique opportunities not available through traditional listings, providing you with diverse options to consider
Crexi and LoopNet (For Investors)
For investor buyers, we extend our search capabilities to specialized platforms like Crexi and LoopNet. These tools help us identify prime investment opportunities, ensuring you find the properties you're looking for in the commercial real estate market.
CUSTOM PROPERTY TOURS
Seeing is believing. We schedule and organize property viewings according to your schedule, providing expert guidance and insights during each visit. Our custom tours are designed to maximize your viewing opportunities while minimizing hassle.
IN-PERSON SHOWING
What We Offer:
Personalized Itinerary: Tailor tours based on your schedule, preferences, and selected properties.
Logistical Support: Arrange appointments, map out routes, and manage tour logistics for a seamless experience.
In-Person Insight: Accompany you during tours to provide firsthand insights and answer questions about each property.
Why It Matters: A well-planned property tour ensures you make informed decisions Our custom approach not only saves time but also enhances your understanding and appreciation of potential homes in Galveston.
VIRTUAL SHOWING
For the convenience of our clients, many of whom are from out of state or city, we offer Virtual Showings via video call. This service allows us to conduct real-time property tours and discussions remotely, ensuring you can explore homes and investment opportunities from anywhere
Whether you're unable to attend in person or prefer the flexibility of viewing properties virtually, our Virtual Showings provide detailed insights into property conditions, potential renovations, and market positioning.
BUYING A VACATION HOME
as a Short Term Rental Investment
As your trusted Buyer's Agents specializing in the Gulf Coast and beyond, we bring unparalleled expertise in vacation rentals and second homes. With a deep understanding of local market dynamics and trends, we guide you through the intricacies of purchasing a property that not only meets your vacation needs but also serves as a lucrative investment opportunity
What to Look for in a Short Term Rental Property
Location: Proximity to attractions, beach access, and amenities that appeal to vacationers
Property Type: Condos, single-family homes, or townhouses suited for short-term stays
Regulations: Understanding local zoning laws and HOA restrictions on short-term rentals.
Amenities: Features like pool access, outdoor spaces, and modern amenities that enhance guest experience.
Market Demand: Analyzing historical rental performance and occupancy rates in the area.
What We Offer
Market Insights: We provide in-depth mar insights into active short-term rentals in Galveston, including occupancy rates, renta income potential, and seasonal demand patterns.
Connections with Local Property
Management: Our extensive network connects you with reputable local property management companies experienced in maximizing rental income and guest satisfaction
Vacation Rental Projections: We offer detailed rental income projections based on market analysis, helping you forecast poten returns on your investment.
Expert Guidance: From property selection closing, we offer expert guidance tailored to your investment goals, ensuring you make informed decisions every step of the way
I FOUND THE HOME,
NOW WHAT?
THE CORDER TEAM WILL HELP YOU CRAFT THE OFFER THAT WINS
We'll put together your offer package, consisting of the documents needed for the sale. These include essential contract documents and any additional forms necessary to complete your offer.
Prepare Sales Contract When Ready
A well-prepared sales contract is key to a successful transaction When you're ready, we'll prepare the contract, ensuring it reflects your terms and conditions accurately Our attention to detail ensures all legal aspects are covered and the process proceeds smoothly
Educate on Sales Contract Options
Understanding sales contract options protects your interests and safeguards your investment. We'll educate you on various contract options and contingencies, helping you choose the best ones for your situation. This knowledge empowers you to make informed and strategic decisions.
Negotiate Offer with Listing Agent
Effective negotiation can save you money and secure better terms. We'll handle negotiations with the listing agent, leveraging our expertise to achieve favorable terms. Our skilled negotiation ensures you get the best possible deal on your home purchase.
What Happens if There's Another Offer Besides Mine?
In real estate transactions, encountering another offer alongside yours is not uncommon. This situation typically reduces negotiation flexibility. However, with The Corder Team's expertise and local market knowledge, we specialize in crafting offers that will win, ensuring your goals remain the priority in navigating multiple offer scenarios effectively.
LIST OF ALL TREC’S PROMULGATED CONTRACTS
Contract Forms:
1.Farm and Ranch Contract
2.New Home Contract (Completed Construction)
3.New Home Contract (Incomplete Construction)
4.One to Four Family Residential Contract (Resale)
5.Residential Condominium Contract (Resale)
6.Unimproved Property Contract
Other Forms
1.Condominium Resale Certificate
2.Disclosure of Relationship with Residential Service Company
3.Landlord's Floodplain and Flood Notice
4.Notice of Buyer's Termination of Contract
5.Notice of Seller's Termination of Contract
6 Notice to Prospective Buyer
7 Notice to Purchaser of Special Taxing or Assessment District
8.Property Inspection Report
9.Seller's Disclosure Notice
10.Subdivision Information, Including Resale Certificate for Property Subject to Mandatory Membership in a Property Owners' Association
Contract Addenda:
1 Third Party Financing Addendum
2 Addendum Concerning Right to Terminate Due to Lender's Appraisal
3.Addendum Containing Notice of Obligation to Pay Improvement District Assessment
4.Addendum for "Back-Up" Contract
5.Addendum for Authorizing Hydrostatic Testing
6.Addendum for Coastal Area Property
7.Addendum for Property in a Propane Gas System Service Area
8.Addendum for Property Located Seaward of the Gulf Intercoastal Waterway
9.Addendum for Property Subject to Mandatory Membership in a Property Owners Association
10 Addendum for Release of Liability on Assumed Loan and/or Restoration of Seller's VA Entitlement
11.Addendum for Reservation of Oil, Gas and Other Minerals
12.Addendum for Sale of Other Property by Buyer
13.Addendum for Seller's Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and LeadBased Paint Hazards as Required by Federal Law
14.Addendum Regarding Fixture Leases
15.Addendum Regarding Residential Leases
16.Buyer's Temporary Residential Lease
17.Environmental Assessment, Threatened or Endangered Species, and Wetlands Addendum
18 Loan Assumption Addendum
19 Non-Realty Items Addendum
20.Seller Financing Addendum
21.Seller's Temporary Residential Lease
22.Short Sale Addendum
27 WAYS WE ASSIST 27 WAYS WE ASSIST YOU IN NEGOTIATING YOU IN NEGOTIATING
1 1. .Offer Strategy: Offer Strategy: Adjust offer strategy as needed to align with Adjust offer strategy as needed to align with new developments. new developments.
2 2. .Property Valuation: Property Valuation: Re-evaluate property value based on Re-evaluate property value based on updated information. updated information.
3 3. .Counteroffer Guidance: Counteroffer Guidance: Provide advice on counteroffers to Provide advice on counteroffers to maintain negotiation leverage. maintain negotiation leverage.
4 4. .Multiple Offers: Multiple Offers: Craft offers that stand out in multiple offer Craft offers that stand out in multiple offer situations. situations.
5 5. .Backup Offers: Backup Offers: Advise on backup offers if the first offer falls Advise on backup offers if the first offer falls through. through.
7 7. .Non Realty Inclusions/Exclusions: Non Realty Inclusions/Exclusions: Negotiate which fixtures, Negotiate which fixtures, appliances, or other items are included in the sale. appliances, or other items are included in the sale.
8 8. .Survey Payment: Survey Payment: Negotiate who pays for the survey as Negotiate who pays for the survey as outlined in the contract. outlined in the contract.
9 9. .Title Policy Payment: Title Policy Payment: Negotiate who will cover the cost of Negotiate who will cover the cost of the title policy. the title policy.
10 10. .HOA Fees: HOA Fees: Negotiate the payment of any HOA fees, including Negotiate the payment of any HOA fees, including transfer fees and assessments. transfer fees and assessments.
11 11. .Leaseback/Extended Occupancy: Leaseback/Extended Occupancy: Negotiate terms for any Negotiate terms for any extended occupancy needed by the buyer or seller. extended occupancy needed by the buyer or seller.
12 12. .Seller Concessions: Seller Concessions: Negotiate for seller concessions on Negotiate for seller concessions on repairs or upgrades. repairs or upgrades.
13 13. .Home Warranty: Home Warranty: Negotiate the inclusion of a home warranty Negotiate the inclusion of a home warranty for added peace of mind. for added peace of mind.
14 14. .Contingencies: Contingencies: Set and negotiate contingencies to protect Set and negotiate contingencies to protect
13 13. .Home Warranty: Home Warranty: Negotiate the inclusion of a home warranty Negotiate the inclusion of a home warranty for added peace of mind. for added peace of mind.
14 14. .Contingencies: Contingencies: Set and negotiate contingencies to protect Set and negotiate contingencies to protect your interests. your interests.
15 15. .Conflict Resolution: Conflict Resolution: Mediate conflicts that arise during the Mediate conflicts that arise during the negotiation process. negotiation process.
16 16. .Contract Review: Contract Review: Thoroughly review contracts to ensure Thoroughly review contracts to ensure your interests are protected. your interests are protected.
17 17. .Inspection Reports: Inspection Reports: Leverage inspection reports to negotiate Leverage inspection reports to negotiate repairs or price adjustments. repairs or price adjustments.
18 18. .Repair Negotiations: Repair Negotiations: Negotiate necessary repairs with the Negotiate necessary repairs with the seller based on inspection findings. seller based on inspection findings.
19 19. .Option Period Extension: Option Period Extension: Negotiate extensions for the Negotiate extensions for the option period if needed. option period if needed.
20 20. .Appraisal Issues: Appraisal Issues: Address and negotiate any appraisal Address and negotiate any appraisal discrepancies. discrepancies.
21 21. .Sales Price Adjustment: Sales Price Adjustment: Negotiate any needed sales price Negotiate any needed sales price adjustment after appraisal. adjustment after appraisal.
22 22. .Final Walkthrough Assessments: Final Walkthrough Assessments: Ensure everything agreed Ensure everything agreed upon is completed before closing. upon is completed before closing. 23 23. .Title Issues: Title Issues: Resolve title issues to ensure a clear and Resolve title issues to ensure a clear and marketable title. marketable title.
24 24. .Amendments on the Contract: Amendments on the Contract: Draft and negotiate contract Draft and negotiate contract amendments to reflect new agreements. amendments to reflect new agreements.
25 25. .Follow-Up: Follow-Up: Continually follow up on all aspects of the Continually follow up on all aspects of the negotiation to ensure a smooth process. negotiation to ensure a smooth process.
26 26. .Flexible Possession Date: Flexible Possession Date: Negotiate possession dates that Negotiate possession dates that work best for your timeline. work best for your timeline.
27 27. .Closing Extension: Closing Extension: Negotiate extensions for the closing date Negotiate extensions for the closing date when necessary. when necessary.
WHAT’S NEXT? OFFER ACCEPTED,
Transaction Coordinating
We will coordinate all necessary signatures using our digital e-signature app, ensuring a seamless and efficient process for you Our team will also prepare, organize, and compile all necessary documents, making sure all parties have a copy and that every step is followed, keeping everything on track until closing.
Connecting with Key Parties
Title Company: We make sure the title company has everything they need from our end, including compliance documents, contracts, and any necessary paperwork from both the buyer and us This ensures a smooth transfer of property ownership
Lender: We keep the lender on track with deadlines, gather necessary information and updates, and ensure they have all required documents and signatures This helps in meeting all loan conditions promptly
Inspector: We coordinate property access for the inspector, liaise between them and the seller's side, and ensure inspection results are properly communicated to all relevant parties.
Insurance Agents: We connect with insurance companies on your behalf, providing them with all necessary information and documents to secure your homeowners insurance efficiently.
ESCROW DEPOSIT
WHAT IS EARNEST MONEY & OPTION FEE?
The escrow deposit is also known as the earnest money. It is typically 1-2% of the purchase price that you put down to show the seller you are serious about the purchase. The higher the escrow deposit the more attractive the offer is to the seller. For a $250.000 house you will need $2500.00 available when you write the offer.
Option Fee is small fee paid to the seller for the option period, which allows you time to inspect the property and decide whether to proceed with the purchase.
WHERE DOES IT GO?
As soon as we have an executed contract you have 3 days to get the deposit to the escrow office (title company). The Escrow Company will deposit and hold your check up until closing. Then it will be continued to your balance due at closing You can submit your escrow deposit by a personal check, cashiers check, a wire transfer, or Zoccam app
OPTION PERIOD WHAT HAPPENS DURING
The option period is a crucial time for buyers. It allows you to inspect the property and decide whether to proceed with the purchase. Here’s what to expect:
Property Inspection
During this period, a thorough inspection of the property is conducted. The inspection report is expected to be completed after 24-72 hours, and it can be extensive, often exceeding 50 pages.
Negotiating Repairs
Once the inspection report is received, it’s time to address any findings with the seller As your agents, we:
Identify Key Issues: We assist in reviewing the report to pinpoint important items that need attention.
Advocate for You: We will negotiate with the seller to ensure that your concerns are addressed and that necessary repairs are agreed upon.
Protect Your Interests: Our goal is to represent your best interests and make sure any repairs or concessions are fair and beneficial to you.
Making a Decision
50+ pages inspection report
Based on the inspection results and negotiations, you can decide whether to proceed with the purchase, request repairs, or even walk away from the deal if major issues are found.
SURVEY UNDERSTANDING THE
A survey is an essential part of the home buying process, providing critical information about the property’s boundaries, easements, and other relevant details.
What is a Survey?
A survey is a detailed map prepared by a licensed surveyor that outlines the legal boundaries and physical features of the property. It includes information on fences, structures, easements, and setbacks.
Survey Sample
Why is it Important?
Boundary Clarity: A survey ensures you know exactly where your property lines are, helping prevent disputes with neighbors.
Easements: It identifies any easements, such as utility access or shared driveways, that may affect how you use the property.
Improvement Verification: It confirms the location of existing structures and ensures compliance with local zoning regulations.
Who Pays for the Survey?
Paying for the survey depends on the agreement outlined in the contract. Here are the three options summarized:
Seller provides the current property survey and a T-47 Affidavit within a specified time If these are not provided or deemed unacceptable, Buyer may request a new survey and it could be at the Buyer’s or Seller's expense.
Buyer arranges and pays for a new survey within a specified time.
Seller is responsible for obtaining and covering the cost of a new survey within a specified time.
APPRAISAL PROCESS UNDERSTANDING THE
The appraisal process is a crucial step in a real estate transaction, determining the fair market value of the property.
What is an Appraisal?
An appraisal is a professional assessment of a property's market value conducted by a licensed appraiser. It serves to provide an unbiased opinion of the property's worth based on various factors including its condition, location, and comparable sales in the area
Why is it Important?
The appraisal verifies if the property's value matches the purchase price. It also assures lenders that the loan amount aligns with the property's market value, reducing risks for both parties.
Who orders the Appraisal?
Lenders typically order the appraisal to ensure it meets their lending criteria It's scheduled soon after contract execution and remains impartial to both Buyer and Seller
Addendum Concerning Right to Terminate Due to Lender's Appraisal
It is a document that provides the buyer with an additional right to terminate the contract under specific conditions related to the property's appraisal value.
Appraisal Report
Paragraph 2A. Buyer’s Approval on Third Party Financing Addendum
It is important to note the significance of the Buyer Approval section in the Third Party Financing Addendum. This section allows the contract to hinge on Buyer obtaining financing approval. If Buyer cannot secure approval within the specified timeframe after the effective date, they have the option to terminate the contract and receive a refund of earnest money.
INSURANCE AND HOME WARRANTY IMPORTANCE OF
Why It Matters
Insurance and home warranties are crucial in Galveston and other areas in Galveston County due to its coastal location and weather risks. Insurance protects against specific hazards like hurricanes and floods, while home warranties cover repair costs for essential home systems and appliances.
As your agent, we facilitate navigating insurance options by connecting you with reputable insurers and obtaining tailored quotes promptly. This helps you understand the costs early on, ensuring you can make informed decisions that align with your needs and budget.
Typically, the Buyer orders insurance and a home warranty few weeks before closing, ensuring protection of their investment.
Home Warranty In The Contract
If agreed upon as outlined in the Residential Service Contract paragraph of the contract, buyers have the option to purchase a residential service contract from a licensed provider. At closing, the seller may reimburse the buyer for the cost of the contract, up to a specified amount. This contract covers repair and maintenance of home systems beyond what standard homeowners insurance typically covers.
Paragraph 7.H. of TREC’s One to Four Family Residential Contract (Resale)
PROCESS FROM CONTRACT TO CLOSE
Contract Accepted
Open Title
Deposit Earnest Money & Option Fee
Option Period Begins
Inspections or Repair Negotiation (if necessary)
Seller Agent Agent Buyer
End of Option Period
Title Search Preliminary Title Report
Additional Negotations–Based on Appraisal Result (if necessary)
Seller Agent Agent Buyer
Escrow verifies compliance of all parties to proceed to closing Buyer’s Approval: Financing Due
Closing Day: Signing of Closing Documents
Funding
Title Records at County Utilities Off/On
Got Keys. Ready to Move In
Obtain Necessary Property Inspections within Option Period
Loan Process
Lender Provides Loan Status Update
Appraisal Inspections
Appraisal Report
Final Loan Approval
Obtain Flood / Wind / Homeowner’s Insurance
Have
CLOSING THE DEAL
Seamless transaction from Contract to Close!
Supporting you until the end is our commitment. We attend the closing with you, providing guidance and ensuring all final details are handled accurately for a smooth transition into your new home.
As your Buyer's Agent, we provide invaluable guidance and support throughout this process, enhancing your experience in several key ways:
1 Final Walk-Through Assurance: We accompany you during the final walk-through, ensuring the property's condition meets your expectations and that any negotiated repairs have been satisfactorily completed
2. Facilitating Smooth Communication: We maintain open communication with the escrow or title company, ensuring all necessary documents are prepared and ready for your review and signature.
3.Smooth Possession Transition: We facilitate the transfer of keys and possession of the property, ensuring you receive all necessary access items and ensuring a smooth transition into your new home or investment property.
Types of Closing:
The closing process may vary depending on the title company we are working with, but here are the usual types:
Signing at the Title's Office: Traditional closing where all parties meet at the title company's office to sign paperwork
Mobile Notary: A notary public travels to a convenient location for all parties to sign documents
Electronic Closing (via email and e-signature): Documents are signed electronically, allowing for a more flexible and convenient closing process, especially useful for remote buyers or sellers.
HERSTORY
As an ordained Pastor, Cynthia have been teaching the Bible for years and most recently expanded her reach through RecoveryChick, a 501c3 nonprofit
RecoveryChick.com is a Christian-based recovery community she founded 7 years ago to welcome women who are struggling in addiction and are now seeking recovery through faith-based discipleship.
It started in 2012 when she arrived in Houston to serve as a chaplain at the Harris County Jail (the fourth largest jail in the nation), and she was tasked with developing a program for 1,000 incarcerated women. In December of 2018, with God's grace, we opened a house we call Judy's House- which we named after Cynthia's late mother, that's when many amazing journeys began for Recovery Chick, we are growing, serving the community, and offering women a safe and healthy place to recover.
REALESTATE
has paved way for many opportunities for us to improve and expand our reach to help more women in recovery.
Today we have 3 houses, Judy's House, a faith-based discipleship program, in Galveston, Precious Rubies sober living in Dickinson, and Victory House our Galveston second sober living home. Our growth in this business has made all this possible.
Wereachuptolearn,butwereachbacktohelp
We are most grateful to all our clients who have used us in their real estate journey, without them we wouldn't be able to extend our hand to those who needs us