BEFORE YOUBUY
ErinHandlin
GET TO KNOW YOUR REAL ESTATE AGENT
Since 2013, I’ve been navigating the ever-evolving real estate market with a client-first mindset bringing experience, integrity, and a personalized approach to every transaction
Originally from Montana, I moved to Colorado in 2015 and have been licensed in Montana, Colorado, and Hawaii. While I spent two years selling real estate in Montana and held a license in Hawaii, the heart of my business has always been here in Colorado. This is where I’ve built lasting relationships, developed deep local market knowledge, and helped clients confidently reach their real estate goals
Many of the connections I’ve made over the years have come through military and personal referrals something I’m incredibly proud of. My strong community ties and trusted network of service providers allow me to support clients well beyond closing day.
Clients often say I’m not just another agent chasing the next deal and they’re right I genuinely invest in your success, offering honest guidance, clear communication, and strong negotiation skills. I take my education seriously, holding designations like GRI (Graduate Realtor® Institute), RENE (Real Estate Negotiation Expert), and MRP (Military Relocation Professional), along with completing Ninja Selling training. Outside of real estate, you’ll usually find me with a coffee in hand, dreaming up my next adventure, or working on a home project I’m also a proud mom, and when time allows, I love climbing, practicing yoga, and scuba diving.
Life is full of transitions and my goal is to be your steady, trusted guide through each one. Whether you're buying your first home, selling a beloved space, or starting fresh, I'm here to help you make confident, informed decisions
GETTING YOU IN THE DOOR
Buying a home is one of the most significant purchases in a lifetime. It is essential to have an experienced agent in your corner always looking out for your best interests. A buyer agent’s fiduciary responsibility is to represent the Buyer and to ensure that they are protected.
After all, a Seller has someone in their corner. A listing agent has an allegiance to the Seller Their goal is to get the Seller top dollar for their home. There is incredible value in having someone working for YOUR best interests when buying a home.
We will narrow down the homes that fit your unique wants and needs and get you in the door. I look at dozens of homes every week, and I can help you identify potential problems within a home.
STAYING ON TOP OF THE PAPERWORK
Buying a home involves many types of documentation. I have the experience and knowledge to navigate real estate contracts, ensuring that nothing is overlooked, and that you truly understand what a paper means before ever signing on the dotted line.
ON YOUR SIDE
A buyer’s agent will represent your best interests With a pulse on the local market and a sound understanding of how various amenities affect the value of a home, we will make sure we submit a competitive offer on the right house for you.
NEIGHBORHOOD
EXPERT
I work daily in neighborhoods throughout Colorado Springs and beyond. I have the market knowledge you need to get you the home of your dreams at the best price. Understanding the local real estate market is essential when it comes time to make an offer on a house.
PROBLEM SOLVER
I will work hard to protect all of your interests and take on any issues that may arise throughout the entire process. I work tirelessly to make sure buying a home is a fun and stress-free process.
AFFORDABILITY
The Seller typically pays the compensation for both the seller’s agent and the buyer’s agent A compensation request is a part of the contract to buy
Whatclientsaresaying...
TESTIMONIALS
Julian and Brittany G 2020
"The honesty and integrity of Erin was exactly what we needed in selling and buying our home. After our experience buying a home with Erin we understood that it wouldn't be wise to go with anyone else when selling There was no pressure to buy or sell right away just to get paid. I recommend Erin Handlin for anyone who wants someone to negotiate with boldness and to explain the process in simple terms to new or seasoned buyers/sellers."
Johan and Tina M. 2018
"Erin's dedication, professionalism, and attention to our needs provided us with an opportunity to relocate after we retired We found our new home and community allowing us to be close to family and friends while enjoying everything Colorado has to offer Thank you Erin Handlin for being our realtor "
Ryan and Nicole Y. 2024
“We found Erin through my sister who had raved about her My husband and I were first time home buyers and we relied heavily on Erin's expertise to guide us. She was incredible throughout the entire process - she was so patient with us while taking the time to answer our questions and educate us. We are now happily in our first home and we couldn't have done it without her We would highly recommend her for anyone in search of a realtor. Erin - Thanks for being you!!”
Cody and Brianna D 2024
“Erin was very friendly and helpful throughout the entire process. Due to schedules we had to have showings at later hours and she was more than happy to accommodate us. Her communication was awesome and she was quick to respond to any questions we had. I would definitely recommend Erin to anyone looking for an agent.”
FOUNDED IN 2008
The word Fathom means, “to come to understand”. Fathom Realty’s goal is to ignite a paradigm shift within the real estate industry and is poised to be the catalyst which ignites the long overdue shift from a brokerage-centric industry to one that is client and agent-centric.
Fathom Realty represents the future of the real estate brokerage. How? Fathom is a cloudbased,technology-driven, full-service real estate brokerage providing our agents with the industry's best commission splits ... all without compromising on providing the effective training and the highest level of support our agents deserve.
Fathom Realty exists to serve our agents and clients through unparalleled support, superior innovation, and next generation technology. With servant’s hearts, we believe in giving 100% to our agents and achieving 100% satisfaction from our clients.
Are you ready to buy? DOYOUHAVE
A STEADY INCOME?
LOW TO MEDIUM DEBT?
CASH FOR DOWN PAYMENT/CLOSING?
TWO MONTHS OF PAY STUBS AND BANK STATEMENTS?
TWO YEARS WITH SAME COMPANY OR SAME INDUSTRY?
If you fit those requirements, it may be your time to buy. Let’s get pre-approved. Here’s what we need to do:
•Choose a Lender-Interviewing 3 is highly recommended.
•Fill out a loan application with selected Lender for preapproval.
•Choose a loan type that best suits your needs.
•Explore down payment assistance programs if needed.
Your Home Search
UNDERSTANDING WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR IS A TOP PRIORITY. LET’S TALK ABOUT THE FEATURES OF YOUR FUTURE HOME.
LOCATION, COMMUTE, SCHOOLS:
PRICE: TYPE
FEATURES:
THEINITIALPROCESS
MAKING AN OFFER
•Falling in love with a home
•Seller wants
•Down payment/financed amount
•Important dates
•Inclusions in home
•Earnest money
•Pre-approval letter from Lender
•Comparing Solds/Price Opinion
•Are there other offers?
•Offer will be accepted, counter-offered, or rejected.
WHEN YOUR OFFER IS ACCEPTED
•Give earnest money to the title company or other earnest money holder by check or wire. Earnest money is a good faith deposit made by a Buyer to show commitment to purchasing a home. It is typically 1% of the purchase price (ie: $5,000 on a $500,000 property).
•Title Company orders Title Insurance
•Schedule Inspection - Buyer pays at time of Inspection
•Appraisal is ordered by lender
•Call for Homeowner’s Insurance coverage to begin at Closing
•Finalize mortgage documents with lender
THINGSTOCONSIDER
•Home Warranty: is an insurance plan to cover items in the home you are purchasing. It can cover the kitchen appliances, humidifier, furnace, AC, ceiling fans, etc. This covers things that could go out after your move in and to replace one item could be costly. If interested, please let me know.
•Earnest Money: When wiring funds to the title company or real estate company for earnest money or closing, you must call them directly and make those arrangements! Even if you get an email, DO NOT wire funds unless speaking to them first!
CLOSING COST BREAKDOWN
•PROPERTY APPRAISAL
•CREDIT REPORT
•LENDER FEES SUCH AS LOAN ORIGINATION AND UNDERWRITING FEES
•LOAN DISCOUNT FEE
•RECORDING FEES
•TITLE INSURANCE
•TAX CERTIFICATE
•ESCROW TAXES AND INSURANCE
•PREPAID INTEREST
•CLOSING FEE TO TITLE COMPANY
GETTINGAHOMEINSPECTION
A home inspection gives you, the buyer, more detailed information about the overall condition of the home prior to purchase. In a home inspection, a qualified inspector takes an in-depth, unbiased look at your potential new home to:
•Evaluate the physical condition: structure, construction, and mechanical systems
•Identify items that need to be repaired or replaced
•Estimate the remaining useful life of the major systems, equipment, structure, and finishes.
An appraisal is different from a home inspection and does not replace a home inspection. Appraisals estimate the value of the property for lenders. An appraisal is required to ensure the property is marketable. Home inspections evaluate the condition of the home for buyers.
AFTERAHOMEINSPECTION
Terminate the contract
Ask Seller to repair property prior to Closing
Ask Seller to pay a concession or contribution
Negotiate a modification to the purchase price
At Closing, the Seller can escrow funds to pay a contractor e
HOME INSPECTORS
•Pillar to Post Home Inspectors
The Abram Team 719-579-6627
•PremierOne Home Inspections
Eric Fedastion 719-217-9594
•Brick and Mortar Home Inspections
Mark and Lori Baxley 719-648-2835
SEWER SCOPES
•A Team Excavation Alfred Arguelles 719-217-8312
•Leo’s Sewer & Drain Inc. 719-217-8312
•Docs Drain 719-471-3232
TITLECOMPANYPROCESS
A COPY OF THE PURCHASE CONTRACT IS DELIVERED TO THE TITLE COMPANY/CLOSING AGENT. THE TITLE COMPANY PERFORMS THE FOLLOWING:
Orders commitment for title insurance. 1.
2. Oversees and coordinates solution of any problems revealed in the preliminary title report.
3. Files documents to clear title of all liens, encumbrances, judgments, clouds on title, or easement questions.
4. Verifies that all work orders are completed and re-inspected if necessary.
5. Prorates any rents, taxes, or utilities to the date of closing.
6 Prepares all closing documents for Buyer and Seller to sign
7 Arranges for both parties to sign closing documents
8. Files all documents with the local government to close the sale.
9. Upon closing, disburses funds per the closing instructions.
LENDERPROCESS
UPON ACCEPTANCE OF THE PURCHASE
CONTRACT, A COPY OF THE CONTRACT IS DELIVERED TO THE MORTGAGE LENDER WHO PERFORMS THE FOLLOWING:
1. Orders appraisal of property from certified appraisal company.
2. Processes credit report for the purchaser.
3 Verifies purchaser’s employment
4. Verifies purchaser’s bank accounts or other monies necessary to close.
5 Oversees that all conditions of the purchase and sale agreement are met before closing.
6 Consolidates all of the above into a loan package that is presented to the loan committee for final approval.
7. When final lender approval is completed, the lender must then give you, the purchaser, the final Closing Disclosure at least 3 business days before Closing
FinanceQ&A
AS YOUR REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL, I’D LIKE TO SHARE SOME FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS TO HELP YOU GET THE HOME YOU WANT AS EASILY AS POSSIBLE.
Q. How long will it take to process my mortgage application once we are under contract:
A. You can expect on average about 30 days, although this does vary. The exact time depends on how quickly your lender can obtain documents such as property appraisal, credit report, title work on the property, employment verification, and bank account statements.
Q. When can I expect my mortgage payments to start?
A. The exact date of your first payment will be included in your closing documents. This is usually about 30-60 days after closing.
Q. What could delay approval of my loan?
A. Avoid internet lenders. Use reputable, local mortgage lenders. The reputable companies can make you aware of any concerns/obstacles early in the process. To avoid unnecessary delays, notify your lender if major changes occur with your personal and financial status from the time you submit your application to the time it’s funded. Changes to consider would be changing jobs, getting an increase/decrease in salary, incurring an additional debt, buying a vehicle, or change in marital status. Try to avoid these changes until after closing!!
Q. Exactly what is included in my house payment?
A. Your payment will include the principal and interest on your loan along with your property taxes, hazard insurance payment, and mortgage insurance if applicable. (PITI)
Closing Day
THIS IS THE BIG DAY! I’LL ACCOMPANY YOU TO CLOSING, ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS, AND VERIFY THE CLOSING PAPERWORK MATCHES OUR PURCHASE CONTRACT.
·A final walk-through will be done a couple of hours before closing to confirm condition.
·In Colorado, the Closing is conducted by a title company and usually takes about an hour.
·You will be expected to have a cashier’s check or certified funds for your final down payment and closing costs.
·When you come to Closing be sure to bring a photo ID for notarization of documents.
·Everyone who is purchasing the property must be present. If this is not possible, let me know in advance as you will need an approved Power of Attorney or plan ahead for a mail-out closing.
Colorado Springs downtown map: www.DowntownCS.com
Colorado Springs Vacation planner: www.VisitCOS.com
Pikes Peak Library District: www.ppld.com
City of Colorado Springs: https://coloradosprings.gov/ Chamber of Commerce: https://coloradospringschamberedc.com/
Sex Offender/Crime by Neighborhood: https://cspd.coloradosprings.gov/content/your-neighborhood and https://www.familywatchdog.us
Crime Database: http://communitycrimemap.com/ and http://www.myneighborhoodupdate.net
School District Information and Data: https://www.cde.state.co.us/schoolview
GettingtoknowColoradoSprings
WHY OLYMPIC CITY IS A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE
Colorado Springs, at an elevation of 6,035 feet, was established in 1886 at the foot of glacier-carved Pikes Peak, a landmark in Pike
National Forest with hiking trails and a cog railway leading to its 14,114 ft. summit. The city's Garden of the Gods park features iconic red-sandstone formations. Estimated population was 488,664 in 2023 with a metro population of approximately 755,105. It spans 195 square miles making it the most extensive municipality in Colorado.
Home to the United States Air Force Academy, Fort Carson, Peterson AFB, Schriever AFB, US Olympic Committee & 23
Olympic NGB’s, US Olympic Training Center, Norther Command, NORAD, US Space Force, Garden of the Gods Park, US Olympic and Paralympic Museum, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame, and Space Foundation
Outstanding higher education institutions; US Air Force Academy, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, Colorado College, and Pikes Peak State College
Diverse industries including Aerospace, Healthcare, Cybersecurity, Defense Technology, Military, Manufacturing, Sports, and Tourism
Remarkable event venues including The Broadmoor Resort Hotel & Convention Center, Fine Arts Center, The Broadmoor World Arena & Pikes Peak Center, Weidner Field, and Robson Arena
Excellent business climate - highly educated workforce, hightech infrastructure, and local airport
World-class trails for hiking and biking
Centrally located to allow residents the opportunity to enjoy all Colorado has to offer: skiing, river rafting, off-roading, ghost towns, hiking, and biking
