SELECTING A GREAT AGENT THE BUYING PROCESS
HOME BUYER’S ROADMAP
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS HOW TO BUY A HOUSE SATISFIED CLIENTS HOW I’LL BE NEGOTIATING FOR YOU WHITECAP MORTGAGE
03 04 06 07 09 10 12 13 14 15
$135,000 - $520,000
INDUSTRY EXPERTISE
Patricia Erickson
Selecting the right real estate agent is paramount as you embark on the home-buying journey. This decision shapes one of life’s most significant milestones, demanding the expertise of a seasoned professional
I will act with your best interests in mind, navigating every facet of the home-buying process with finesse.
I have access to exclusive resources, allowing me to identify the optimal price and timing for the sale of your property.
SHREWD NEGOTIATOR
Drawing on my experience and expertise, I skillfully negotiate to secure the best possible deal for your home.
PROFESSIONAL ACCREDITATIONS
I undergo rigorous annual training and stay up to date on legal and administrative details, ensuring a smooth and compliant transaction.
DEDICATED CUSTOMER CARE
I’m committed to responding to your questions promptly, always providing a level of service that reflects how I would want to be treated.
STEP 2: DEFINE HOME CRITERIA
We’ll work together to determine your ideal location, property type, size, and any other preferences you have
STEP 3: SIGN BUYER AGENCY AGREEMENT
We’ll sign the buyer agency agreement, which officially allows me to represent you
STEP 4: GET APPROVAL FOR MORTGAGE
You’ll need to obtain a pre-approval letter from a lender, which will help clarify your budget and make your offer more attractive to sellers
STEP 5: START HOUSE HUNTING
I’ll search for properties that meet your and arrange viewings for us to tour
STEP 6: RESEARCH NEIGHBORHOODS
I’ll help you gather information on schools, amenities, crime rates, and other factors to assist in making an informed decision
THE BUYING PROCESS
STEP 7: MARKET ANALYSIS
I’ll provide you with market analysis reports to help you understand the value of properties you’re interested in
STEP 8: MAKE AN OFFER
Once we find the right property, I’ll help you craft and submit a competitive purchase offer to the seller
STEP 9: NEGOTIATE TERMS
I’ll negotiate with the seller on your behalf, discussing price, contingencies, and other terms to ensure the best deal for you
STEP 10: ACCEPTANCE OF OFFER
Once your offer is accepted, the property will enter escrow, and we’ll move forward with the next steps
STEP 11: DEPOSIT EARNEST MONEY
I’ll help you gather information on schools, amenities, crime rates, and other factors to assist in making an informed decision.
STEP 12: HOME INSPECTION
I’ll help you arrange a professional home inspection to identify any issues with the property
STEP 13: NEGOTIATE REPAIRS
Based on the inspection report, I’ll negotiate with the seller to address any necessary repairs or issues.
STEP 14: APPRAISAL
Your lender will order an appraisal to confirm that the property’s value supports the loan amount
STEP 15: FINALIZE MORTGAGE APPROVAL
You’ll need to provide any additional documentation to your lender to finalize your mortgage approval
STEP 16: SECURE HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE
I’ll remind you to secure homeowners insurance, which is crucial to protect your investment
STEP 17: TITLE SEARCH AND TITLE INSURANCE
The title company will conduct a title search to ensure clear ownership, and I’ll guide you through obtaining title insurance.
STEP 18: REVIEW CLOSING DISCLOSURE
You’ll review the Closing Disclosure from your lender, which outlines the final loan terms and closing costs
STEP 19: SCHEDULE CLOSING DATE
I’ll coordinate with all parties to schedule a closing date that works for you
STEP 20: PERFORM FINAL WALKTHROUGH
We’ll conduct a final walk-through of the property to ensure it’s in the agreed upon condition before closing
STEP 21: TRANSFER UTILITIES
You’ll arrange for the transfer of utilities into your name.
STEP 22: PREPARE FUNDS FOR CLOSING
You’ll prepare the necessary funds for closing costs, including your down payment and any fees
STEP 23: SIGN CLOSING DOCUMENTS
You’ll sign all required documents to finalize the purchase
STEP 24: RECEIVE KEYS
Receive the keys to your new home and take possession.
STEP 25: REGISTER WITH LOCAL AUTHORITIES
I’ll guide you in registering ownership of the property with local authorities and updating your address.
STEP 26: MOVE IN
You’ll plan and execute your move into your new home.
STEP 27: FOLLOW-UP
I’ll follow up with you after the move to ensure everything went smoothly and answer any questions you may have
FAQ’S
Do you offer assistance with financing and mortgage pre-approval?
Yes, I can assist with financing and mortgage preapproval. I work closely with trusted lenders to help you navigate the mortgage process and secure the best financing options available.
Can
you help with relocation services for clients moving to Delaware from out of state?
Absolutely! I specialize in assisting clients with relocation to Delaware from out of state I understand the unique challenges and considerations involved in relocating, and I offer comprehensive relocation services to make the transition as smooth as possible for my clients.
What are the fees and commissions associated with using your services?
My fees and commissions vary depending on the services required and the specifics of each transaction. I believe in transparency and will provide you with a clear breakdown of all costs associated with using our services before you make any commitments. My goal is to ensure that my clients understand and are comfortable with the costs involved
How quickly can you help me find a home or sell my property in Delaware?
The timeline for finding a home or selling a property can vary depending on various factors such as market conditions, the specific requirements of the client, and the property itself. However, I am dedicated to working efficiently and effectively to meet your needs. I will strive to find your dream home or sell your property in Delaware within a time frame that aligns with your goals and priorities.
What’s a Buyer Agency Agreement?
A buyer agency agreement is a contract between a homebuyer and a real estate agent or brokerage that outlines the agent’s duties and responsibilities in assisting the buyer with their property search and purchase. It typically includes details about the duration of the agreement, the scope of services provided, and the compensation structure for the agent.
Can I cancel my agreement?
Yes, you can usually cancel your agreement, but the terms depend on the specific contract you signed. Some agreements may include cancellation fees or require notice, so it’s important to review your contract and discuss any concern with me.
How does my buyer agent get compensated?
I am typically compensated through a commission paid by the seller, which is usually a percentage of the home’s sale price. This commission is agreed upon before the sale and is outlined
in the listing agreement between the seller and me.
How does the NAR settlement change the home buying experience?
The NAR settlement enhances transparency in the home buying process by ensuring buyers are more informed about the compensation their agent will receive. This allows buyers to make more informed decisions and may lead to increased negotiation opportunities regarding commission rates.
Do I have to sign buyer agency agreement before seeing a home?
Yes, under the new NAR settlement, you are required to sign a buyer agency agreement if you are working with a buyer’s agent before you can see homes This agreement formalizes the relationship between you and the agent, outlining their responsibilities and how they will be compensated. The goal of the settlement is to promote transparency in real estate transactions, including commission disclosure.
Buyer:
HOW TO BUY A HOUSE AFTER THE
NAR SETTLEMENT
OLD WAY
Hi, I‘d love to go see 123 Main Street.
Realtor:
That sounds great! I‘d be happy to show you the property When are you available?
Buyer:
We’re free this weekend. Does that work for you?
Realtor:
The weekend works perfectly! I’ll confirm the time and send you the details. Looking forward to meeting you there!
NEW WAY
Buyer:
Hi I‘d love to go see 123 Main Street
Realtor:
Great! I‘d love to know when you‘re available to see it. But first I‘m going to have to have you sign this new buyer agency agreement.
Witnessing the radiant smiles of my clients as they embrace their new homes is my greatest reward. Behind every happy homeowner is a dedicated team at Loft Team, working tirelessly to ensure a seamless and rewarding experience. From the initial search to the final closing, I guide my clients through every step of the process with expertise and care.
I understand that buying a home is more than just a transaction it’s a milestone in your life’s journey. Join my community of satisfied homeowners and let me be your trusted partner in turning your homeownership dreams into reality.
What I’ll Be Doing For You
Email lender, agent, other agent to welcome them to the transaction and send over ratified documents.
Email to remind them of HOI
Email buyer/seller whichever is out client to introduce myself
Schedule the home inspection if applicable
Notify all parties of home inspection time
Reminder email to client for home inspection
Request utility form (if we are on the buying side)
Input information into CRM program for Attorney if applicable
Draft and send addendums as needed
Make sure deadlines are met for repair negotiations
Thank you email after settlement
Make sure client is aware of settlement details
Loan commitment deadline
Once buyer has made loan commitmentnotify all parties
Request prelim CD to review
Weekly emails to client
Lisa
Lisa is a vital part of your home buying or selling journey, handling everything from coordinating with attorneys to scheduling inspections While she doesn’t handle negotiations, Lisa is always available to provide updates, answer questions, and ensure every detail is managed smoothly.
O’Connor
RESOURCES
REAL ESTATE ATTORNEYS
Aleman & Associates - 978 922 0330
Wolfe & Associates - 302-644-1426
Ward & Taylor - 302 346 7000
HOME INSPECTORS
AmeriSpec Inspection Services - 302-996-0405
Pro-spect Inspection Services DE - 302-591-3505
McMullen Septic Service, Inc - 302-629-6221
Septic Masters - 302-861-0433
PROFESSIONAL MOVERS
Two Men and a Truck - 302-613-0765
ELECTRICIANS
Kent Island Electric, Inc. / The Langway Company, Inc. - 410-643-4229
The Wire Guy, LLC George Lancaster - 302-674-5718
PLUMBERS/HVAC
G’s Heating & Air - 302-682-4404
LANDSCAPERS
Shuba’s Landscape - 302-632-6697
ROOFING
Ferris Home Improvements - 302-998-4500
“
Patricia was so easy to work with and a tremendous help throughout my home buying experience. I threw more than my share of curve balls her way and she rolled with each one. She is so knowledgeable about what she does and truly wants the best for her clients. She was there to answer all my questions and put my mind at ease throughout the entire process I wouldn’t have made it to the closing table without her!
ERIN
BRITTINGHAM
“
Patricia made buying AND selling a home the best experience possible. As a first time homebuyer, I was unsure of what to expect. Patricia is very knowledgeable and willing to help with anything you need 100% recommend Patricia and Loft Team as your realtor!
“ “
Patricia Erickson was the greatest realtor we could’ve asked for! She was always responsive and making sure we understood everything! If she didn’t know something she would find out for us. Taylor and I are so thankful for her helping us get out first home
JOEY P HOPE AIKEN
I worked with Patricia Erickson and she helped me perfectly through the entire process!! I hardly knew a thing about the home buying process but she made me feel comfortable and answered any questions I may have had. It was a a very smooth process and I am so happy with how everything unraveled
ASHLEY NEYOR
“ “
Patricia helped me find a wonderful home, in a good neighborhood, and a great price range. She also helped me figure out who the best people in the business are to talk about mortgages with. Overall Patricia was amazing to work with through the entire home buying process!
TAYLOR
JEFFERSON
Patricia was a huge help with finding a rental property that fit my needs. She even guided me through the application process and answered all of my questions If I ever need to find a new rental or buy a house I'll definitely be calling her again!
ERIC RUDD
“ “
Patricia Erickson was our realtor that my fiancé and I worked with and I cannot recommend her enough. We began our home buying process in April and she’s worked so hard to get us into a house in this tough market. She ALWAYS answered our questions no matter the time, she advocated for us, and most importantly - she cared If you are looking for a realtor, I highly recommend Patricia You will be in good hands.
CHEYENNE SANCHEZ
Patricha was absolutely AMAZING helping us get our first home here in DE. She was willing to work with us from just looking to being able to get us closed on a super tight time limit. We cannot recommend her or the Loft team enough. Honestly 13/10 do recommend.
LINDSAY BURLEY
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