Buyer's Guide

TABLE OF

CONTENTS SELECTING A GREAT AGENT

03

THE BUYING PROCESS

04

HOME BUYER’S ROADMAP

06

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

07

HOW TO BUY A HOUSE

09

SATISFIED CLIENTS

10

HOW I’LL BE NEGOTIATING FOR YOU

12

WHITECAP MORTGAGE

13

RESOURCES PAGE

14

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

15

Meet, Zachary Foust 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.

$225,000 - $655,000 Sales Price Range

Sales Volume

Number of Showings

INDUSTRY EXPERTISE 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.

BUYER’S GUIDE

3

THE BUYING PROCESS STEP 1: INITIAL CONSULTATION

STEP 7: MARKET ANALYSIS

Meet with me so we can discuss your home buying

I’ll provide you with market analysis reports to help

goals, budget, and preferences.

you understand the value of properties you’re interested in.

STEP 2: DEFINE HOME CRITERIA

STEP 8: MAKE AN OFFER

We’ll work together to determine your ideal location,

Once we find the right property, I’ll help you craft

property type, size, and any other preferences you

and submit a competitive purchase offer to the

have.

seller.

STEP 3: SIGN BUYER AGENCY AGREEMENT

STEP 9: NEGOTIATE TERMS

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

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.

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.

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.

BUYER’S GUIDE

4

STEP 13: NEGOTIATE REPAIRS

STEP 21: TRANSFER UTILITIES

Based on the inspection report, I’ll negotiate with the

You’ll arrange for the transfer of utilities into your

seller to address any necessary repairs or issues.

name.

STEP 14: APPRAISAL

STEP 22: PREPARE FUNDS FOR CLOSING

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.

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.

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.

BUYER’S GUIDE

5

HOME BUYER’S

Roadmap

Meet agent to discuss goals

Get Pre-Approval

Repair + Secondary adendums

Begin Search

Home Inspection

Appraisal + Financing Commitment

Closing Date + Home is sold

Write Offer

Offer is accepted 1st Deposit Due

CELEBRATE!!!

AGENCY DISCLOSURE

Scan the QR code for our Buyer Agency Agreement. Get instant access to property data, market insights, and client info.

BUYER’S GUIDE

6

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.

BUYER’S GUIDE

7

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’S GUIDE

8

HOW TO BUY A HOUSE AFTER THE NAR SETTLEMENT

OLD WAY Buyer: 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?

ENT AG

Buyer: We’re free this weekend.

Does that work for you?

BUYER

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

AGREEMENT BUYER

REALTOR

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.

BUYER’S GUIDE

9

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.

BUYER’S GUIDE

10

BUYER’S GUIDE

11

What I’ll Be Doing For You Email lender, agent, other agent to welcome them to the transaction and send over ratified documents.

1

Email buyer/seller whichever is out client to introduce myself

Schedule the home inspection if applicable

Notify all parties of home inspection time

2

3

4

Request utility form (if we are on the buying side)

Input information into CRM program for Attorney if applicable

6

5

Loan commitment deadline

Once buyer has made loan commitmentnotify all parties

Reminder email to client for home inspection

Email to remind them of HOI

8

7

Draft and send addendums as needed

9

Thank you email after settlement

16

Make sure deadlines are met for repair negotiations

10

11

Make sure client is aware of settlement details

15

Request prelim CD to review

14

12

Weekly emails to client

13

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.

Lisa O’Connor

BUYER’S GUIDE

12

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

BUYER’S GUIDE

14

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

“

We had a great experience working with Jeff Foust! His honesty, knowledge, and friendly approach clearly made a positive impact on your transaction. It’s always a plus to have someone who knows how to get the job done efficiently. The loft team was incredibly warm and welcoming, providing valuable assistance throughout the closing process. Their support made the experience smooth and enjoyable.

“

MICHAEL BROWN

Patricia 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

“ “

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

I loved working with our relator Karla. She was so patient with us.

It was our first time owning a home and usually it is a stressful process but she was very helpful with answering our questions and/or concerns. I loved the experience and would 100% use or recommend Loft Realty in the future.

ESTRELLA BOYD BUYER’S GUIDE

15

“

In the process of buying a home and Zach and Austin have been awesome every step of the process! Definitely recommend them to everyone! Friendly and positive atmosphere and ready to answer every question I have about anything in the home buying process!

“ “

VICTORIA HANDLIN

Karla at Loft Realty was incredible since day one. She answered all of my questions, did everything she could to help us and gave us the most beautiful gift at closing. If you’re looking to buy or sell, CHOOSE KARLA. she is the best!!! Thank you so much!

EMILY NASRAWI

I recently worked with Jeff Foust with the Loft Team and I can’t recommend him highly enough. From the start, he was attentive to my needs and helped me find the perfect property. His knowledge of the market and attention to detail made the process smooth and stress-free. Not only did he find the ideal home, but he also connected me with a fantastic mortgage company and insurance agent, making the entire buying experience seamless. Thanks to Jeff, my dream purchase became a reality!

“

DANIELLE WILK

Even though it took us several months to finally pick the perfect home, Austin was patient and did a great job through the whole process. We will definitely use Loft Realty again if we decide to sell our home later on in life.

STEPHANIE

SCAN TO READ MORE GOOGLE REVIEWS

BUYER’S GUIDE

16

LOOKING FOR MORE? WE JUST LAUNCHED A NATIONAL YOUTUBE CHANNEL!

@ZacharyLoft

MOVING TO SOUTHERN DELAWARE? YOU’LL LOVE THIS YOUTUBE CHANNEL INSTEAD!

@Living-in-South-Delaware

IF YOU LOVE THIS DOCUMENT, YOU’LL LOVE OUR

HH OO UU SS II NN GG AA FF FF OO RR DD AA BB II LL II TT YY TT RR AA CC KK EE RR !!

The Housing Affordability Tracker gives you a quick, honest read on where the U.S. housing market stands today. It blends key metrics—like inventory levels, home prices, interest rates, and everyday living costs—into simple scores for supply, affordability, and overall market health. Updated monthly, this tool makes it easy to see if we're heading toward balance or drifting further out of reach.

Scan this QR code to explore the live dashboard and see the latest numbers for yourself.