HOME BUYER GUIDE
atraditionoftrust AMANDA HEATH
Whether you're a first time home buyer or a seasoned real estate investor, I want to become your Trusted Advisor
Here's how I help: With over 18 years of sales and marketing leadership in the real estate industry, I have extensive experience in various real estate markets, including residential home resales, relocation, new construction marketing and neighborhood representation, custom home builds, and investor renovation projects. I provide a fullservice approach with one-on-one communication and tailored solutions to the unique goals of each buyer I strive to provide my clients with a smooth and enjoyable experience from beginning to end and my commitment goes beyond the closing Whether you need assistance with settling into your new home, finding reliable local services, or just have real estate-related inquiries, I'm here to provide ongoing support and guidance
Rankedinthetop3%ofournetwork nationallysince2019
Sold$17+millionyearoveryear
Assistedbuyersandsellersinover 350+transactionssince2016
DESIGNATIONS & ACCOLADES
5-YearLegend(achievingChairman’sCirclefor the5thtime)
Chairman’sCircleGoldAwardWinner(20202025)
President’sCircleAwardWinner(2019) LeadingEdgeSociety(2018) RelocationSpecialist
WinstonSalemREALTORS®AssociationBoard Member
TopPerformerMastermindProgramMember BHHSAdvisoryCouncilMember TriadRealProducersRisingStar(2018) TriadRealProducersCoverFeature(2023) RobinhoodYMCABoardMember
682-6822
BUYER benefits
VENDOR RECOMMENDATIONS
Trusted network of vendors, including contractors, inspectors, and service providers. Recommendations to help with inspections, repairs, and any necessary improvements
INSURANCE AND LENDER PARTNERS
Connections with trusted insurance providers to help you secure the right coverage Relationships with reputable lenders who can assist with financing options and mortgage preapproval
CUSTOM HOME SEARCHES
Tailored property searches to match your specific preferences and criteria
Assistance in finding the perfect home that suits your unique needs and desires
ACCESS TO OFFICE EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS
Exclusive access to listings that may not be available to the general public Early information about promising properties before they hit the market
RELATIONSHIPS
Over my 19 years in the real estate industry I have developed great relationships not only within Berkshire Hathaway (the number one firm in Great Winston-Salem) but also with other agencies This helps you because other agents know that when I show a house I work with serious buyers and that I will work with the other agent to ensure a smooth transaction Listing agents want to work with good agents on the other side and this can help put your offer in a position of strength This also puts me in a unique position to stay ahead of the market and often learn about listings and potential neighborhoods before they even hit the market
NEGOTIATIONS
My experience and extensive training has allowed me to become an expert negotiator. I know that price is not the only factor in winning a deal for my clients. Terms and conditions can play a vital role in winning any offer I work to look at all angles to put my buyers in a position of strength based upon each unique transaction This matters and can mean thousands of dollars at the end of the day
HOW I SUPPORT AND REPRESENT YOU IN EVERY STEP OF BUYING YOUR HOME:
Conductanin-depthbuyerconsultationtounderstandyourneedsandpreferences Createpersonalizedpropertysearchestailoredtoyourcriteria.
Preparecomprehensivebuyerguidesanddetailedpropertyinformationforyour showings.
Scheduleandorganizepropertytourstomaximizeourtimetogether
Assistinsecuringahomeatapriceandtermsthatmeetyoursatisfaction
Handleallstate-mandatedpaperwork,includingdraftingoffers,negotiatingterms, andmanagingcounteroffers
Communicateconsistentlywithyourlendertoprovidetimelyupdatesthroughout theprocess
Coordinateandreviewallnecessaryinspections,includinghome,pest,radon, surveys,andindividualsystemsinspections
Negotiaterepairswiththeseller'sagenttoensureyourconcernsareaddressed. Scheduletheclosingwithyourpreferredattorneytoensureasmoothtransaction
Verifythecompletionofrepairswiththeseller'sagenttoensureeverythingisin order
Attendthefinalwalk-throughandclosingtosupportyouthroughthelaststepsof yourhomebuyingjourney
MEET MY TEAM
LINDSAY PARK Marketing Specialist
AMY EARLE Marketing Support
KAYLA HIATT Transaction Processor
LAURA GUIGOU Transaction Coordinator
BRANDON WILKERSON Courier
JOHN COCKERHAM Lead Photographer
BRYAN SIMPSON Chief Legal Counsel
THOMAS MAIER Managing Broker
GRACE BOLIN Director of Sales Support
ALICE SHERMAN Measuring Specialist
GREATER WINSTON-SALEM’S MARKET LEADER
Source: Triad MLS Counties: Davie, Forsyth, Stokes, Davidson 01/01/2025-12/31/2025
City of Winston-Salem (Office)
Forsyth County (Office) Stokes County (Brokerage)
City of Winston-Salem
Forsyth County
What My Clients Are Saying...
We had the pleasure of working with Amanda as part of our relocation process, and she made the entire experience seamless. Moving from Fuquay-Varina to the Winston-Salem area could have been overwhelming, but Amanda’s knowledge, professionalism, and approachable manner made all the difference. She was flexible with our schedule, highly responsive, and consistently went above and beyond to make sure we had the information we needed to make confident decisions. Her experience and calm, personable approach provided reassurance during what could have been a stressful time. I would highly recommend Amanda to anyone relocating or searching for a new home in the area. She is an outstanding realtor who truly prioritizes her clients.
Frances, Relocation Buyer
Amanda Heath is an amazing realtor whom I would recommend to anyone. As a first time seller, I had many questions which she answered with assurance and skill. I was nervous; she was calm. She knew the perfect times to call to check up on me and seemed to be always available even outside of office hours. She came equipped with a husband who could untangle any technological problem, and a friend who could stage a home to look its' best. She knows the market and what makes a successful sale, which is why Amanda has been a top seller at Berkshire Hathaway for many years... and has the awards to prove it. I am lucky to have had this lovely lady as my realtor and now my friend.
Judith Margerum
Amanda is the best; I have purchased seven homes over the years and dealt with seven different realtors. I have sold six of those homes and delt with six different realtors for those sales. Never have I encountered a realtor who could hold a candle to Amanda. Amanda has been on top of everything before I could even think of it. She is wonderful to deal with, always sincere and having a great positive attitude. She went out of her way to help my wife and I with every phase of the purchase. I wish all realtors could take a course and learn from Amanda. If you ever need a realtor, Amanda is the only one I can 100% recommend.
Bill Venator
Through a long and sometimes frustrating process of finding the right buyer for a special property (a family home on 50 acres), Amanda never failed to be optimistic, encouraging, and resourceful. She also has an excellent book of contacts for all manner of projects, and she responds extraordinarily quickly to all inquiries. I never doubted that we were in good hands.
Importantly, I also felt that we were never just another deal –Amanda exudes a kindness and warmth that puts one at ease. Her ability to understand that this transaction was a bittersweet goodbye also made a big difference. We couldn't recommend her more enthusiastically.
William Nifong
HOME BUYING PROCESS
Home Buying Process
The buyer experience begins and ends with you. I will serve as your professional consultant to guide you through this transition, and any future real estate needs. I am dedicated to streamlining your experience so you can focus on the demands of daily life.
INITIAL CONSULTATION
Determine criteria, needs and urgency.
Discuss financing options and the process for finding the right property.
HOME LOAN DOCUMENT CHECKLIST
Use this helpful checklist to gather documents for your home loan.
Income Information
□ 30 days most recent pay stubs with year-to-date information for all jobs and for each borrower.
□ Federal tax returns for the 2 most recent years (1040s).
□ W-2 or 1099 forms for the 2 most recent years.
□ Retirement and/or social security income award letter.
□ Written explanation if employed less than 2 years or gap in employment in the last 2 years.
Credit Information
□ Most recent 2 months asset statement listed on the application — all pages to each statement even if blank. (Example: checking account, savings account, CDs, money market accounts, IRA, 401k, etc.).
□ If applicable: credit explanation letter for any late payments, collections, judgements or other derogatory credit items.
□ Documentation for any large deposits outside payroll or gift fund deposits shown on asset statements.
□ If applicable: previous payments for alternative credit sources.
Special Information, if applicable
□ Last 3 years complete Federal tax returns (both personal & business returns).
□ Year-to-date profit and loss statement.
□ List of all business debts.
Other Information
□ Real Estate Agent Information (if applicable).
Agent name: Contact Number:
□ Homeowners Insurance Information
Agent name: Contact Number:
□ Additional:
□ Additional:
FINDING THE RIGHT HOME
Review various neighborhoods and areas to identify those that match your criteria.
Start touring homes to find your perfect fit.
KEY FEATURES CHECKLIST
YOUR NEEDS AND WANTS IN YOUR NEW HOME
Would you consider this item essential, desirable, or not a priority?
HOME BASICS
Number of Bedrooms
Number of Bathrooms
Square Footage
One-Story or Multi-Story
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
Move-in Ready
Fixer-Upper
Age of Home
HOA Community
Pool Access
Private Yard
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Open Floorplan
Updated Kitchen
Home Office Space
Basement
Bonus Room
Front Porch
Separate Laundry Room
Dining Room
LOCATION
Specific Neighborhood(s)
Proximity to Work
School District
Near Shopping, etc.
Near Transportation
MAKING AN OFFER
Review disclosures and property information to make an informed decision.
Review comparable sales and market conditions to determine offer price.
Be prepared with your pre-approval letter, due diligence fee, and earnest money deposit.
NEGOTIATIONS
1. Offer is delivered to the listing agent for presentation to the seller.
2. Seller responds with acceptance, rejection or a counter-offer.
3. Offer becomes a binding contract once all parties have signed and communicated.
CONTRACT PERIOD
01. Monies referenced in offer are delivered.
02. Property appraisal is conducted as part of the loan approval process.
03. Schedule closing attorney.
04. Select title insurance policy and secure homeowners insurance.
05. Schedule inspections as requested on Professional Services Disclosure and Election form.
06. Arrange for movers and utility transfers.
07. Review Closing Disclosure and arrange for monies to be delivered for settlement.
08. Conduct your final walk-through of property.
09. Attend settlement.
TITLE INSURANCE
At real estate closings, the lender, if any, requires a title insurance policy (Loan Policy) to ensure that the lender’s interest in the property is protected. To protect your investment and ownership in the property, you also need a title insurance policy (Owner’s Policy). There are no annual payments to keep the policy in force. A one-time fee at the real estate closing protects you against a wide variety of risks to the title of your property.
As part of the seamless transaction for our clients, we are pleased to offer title insurance through our wholly-owned title insurance company, Attorneys Title. Attorneys Title has provided title insurance to
North Carolina homebuyers for over 35 years. As an agent of First American Title, Commonwealth Land Title and Chicago Title insurance companies, our experienced staff and legal team are prepared to handle all of your title insurance needs. We have access to over 2 million prior policies and provide a reissue rate when applicable, to help ensure you are getting the best price for your title insurance. To take advantage of our streamlined process, simply indicate to the attorney of your choice that you designate Attorneys Title as your title insurance provider.
ESTIMATED CLOSING COSTS
Closing costs cover the final fees in your home purchase. Your agent can help fill in these estimates so you know what your total cash to close will look like.
Appraisal:
Attorney Fees:
Brokerage Fees:
Cost Associated with Loan: Mortgageconsultantwillprovideestimate
Escrow Deposit: Reserve for HOA dues, taxes, PMI, etc.
Homeowners Insurance:
Home Warranty:
Property Inspections: Home,Radon,Septic,Well,Termite
Recording Fees: Survey:
Title Insurance: Other: TOTAL CLOSING COSTS
This should be used as a checklist for informational purposes only and costs are not to be construed as actual closing figures. A final, detailed breakdown will be made available before closing.
SMOOTH TRANSITION TO A NEW HOME
4 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING
• Contact and contract with a reputable moving company.
• Have school records transferred.
• Arrange to transfer or transport medical, dental, and other important records.
• Transfer homeowners and auto insurance to be sure of continuous coverage.
• Hold a garage sale, donate unneeded items, and place excess items in storage.
• Keep track of moving related expenses (some may be deductible).
3 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING
• Update your address with the post office, your subscriptions, credit card companies, and any other important contacts.
2 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING
• Arrange for final utility readings at the former residence the day after moving out, and have utilities and phone turned on at the new home the day before moving in.
• Update or transfer bank accounts.
• Arrange for transfer of vehicle registration and drivers’ licenses.
• Schedule a final walkthrough of the property; make sure everything is in order.
MOVING WEEK
• Keep valuable financial records and personal papers with you; do not pack them with the rest of the household goods.
• During settlement, which is often termed as your “closing” appointment, the home purchase documents are signed and recorded with the county. The home is officially yours when all purchase documents are recorded with the county.
• Move in!
CLOSING & BEYOND
1. Closing attorney records deed.
2. Receive keys to your new home!
At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Carolinas Companies we are committed to building lasting relationships based on trust and care. I will continue to be a resource for you and look forward to assisting your friends and family.
OUR COMPLETE SUITE OF HOME SERVICES
Berkshire Hathaway wants to be in businesses that are enduring. Real estate brokerages will be around 100 years from now and HomeServices of America will be around 100 years from now. We love that HomeServices is part of Berkshire Hathaway and we would love to see it grow a lot.
— Warren Buffett Chairman and CEO Berkshire Hathaway, Inc.
STRENGTH, TRUST & INTEGRITY
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. is a worldwide holding company based in Omaha, NE. Its Chairman and CEO, Warren Buffett is ranked one of the world’s most influential people according to Time magazine.
“When people are making the decision of the magnitude of buying a house, it’s the biggest decision a great many families will ever make. They want to know who they’re working with and we think that the Berkshire Hathaway name will be reassuring to many of those people,” says Buffett.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Carolinas Companies benefits from a globally respected reputation and a sound financial foundation. Our roots are local, and our reach is global.
As proud members of this remarkable network, we thrive on helping buyers and sellers find their perfect home whether around the corner, across the country, or anywhere in the world.
THE BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES DIFFERENCE
WE ARE PROUD TO LEAD THE WAY IN MARKETING AND TECHNOLOGY; however, these innovations are not what define us. Our unparalleled value is in each one of our sales associates and their industry knowledge, professional experience and commitment to building a relationship with you that outlasts the closing table. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is the FOREVER BrandSM Our team members are local experts, community activists, liaisons, advisors and oftentimes a friendly ear to listen. We earn trust by partnering with you to achieve your goals and look forward to the opportunity to help you thrive in the communities we serve or wherever life takes you.
