Buying
Matchmaker Realty of alachua county inc.
a little bit about us...
We have been locally owned, operated, and invested in the community since 1984. We are large enough to serve your needs, but small enough to care. Not only are you, the customer, treated like family, but we in the office treat each other like family. This provides better service for you, the customer, and a place where agents want to work and help each other
Through local expertise and knowledge, we provide an exceptional and genuine customer experience. We make the real estate transaction easy to understand and stress-free through our dedication and unwavering ethics
SCAN ME
The Best Choice For You
Experience & Knowledge
Matchmaker Realty provides our REALTORS® with comprehensive training, ongoing support, and resources. We take pride in being on top of market trends and are local area experts.
Customer Service
Your REALTOR® should be someone whom you feel comfortable working with. Make sure your REALTOR® has your best interests in mind and provides a direct line of communication with you throughout the home selling process. Our tagline speaks for itself, "Where You're Treated Like Family".
Reputation
We have been a pillar in the community since 1984, where we have always put our ethics first. We invest in the communities we serve and play an active role in them.
our Promise
Working with you to buy your home...
we’ll guide you through the process, be your resource, and match you with your dream home.
Common Questions
How long does it take to buy a home?
30-45 days after you go under contract. The time to find a home varies.
What does my REALTOR® do?
Almost everything. Walk you through the home buying process and educate you on all your options. They will look out for you during the process.
Will you help me find a lender, inspector, insurance provider, etc.?
We will introduce you to our team of professionals to help you through every step of the process.
What is your best advice?
Trust the professionals Beware of advice from people who do not work in the industry. Real Estate is a popular topic and almost everyone feels like they are experts. In reality, the people who know best are those working in the business. Trust your REALTOR®.
How about my credit score?
Credit scores matter and can affect your interest rate. Check with your lender for your loan type and minimum requirements. There are options for most credit scores.
What are the typical closing costs?
Lender fees, inspections, appraisal, survey, insurance, escrows & prorations.
How much is this all going to cost?
The two pools of money are the down payment and then your closing costs. Your lender will provide you a personalized estimate, but closing costs are typically 2-4% of the purchase price
When do I get the keys?
Under normal circumstances, at closing. If this is not the case, we need to make prior arrangements
financing
Do Not...
Do...
Choose a local, experienced loan originator and get a second opinion
Get pre-approved and know your loan type & limit
Review the loan estimate worksheet to understand your closing costs
Stay within your comfort zone when buying a house, even though you may qualify for over that.
Cooperate with the loan originator, processor, underwriter and closer each step of the way.
Provide all documentation promptly, even when you are asked for documents repeatedly.
Apply for any new credit or close existing credit accounts
Change jobs.
Spend outside your normal spending patterns.
Transfer or deposit large sums of money without a paper trail
Purchase cars, furniture, or any large purchases.
Get behind on any payments
financing options
These are general guidelines. All terms should be verified with your lender.
va fha
Upfront Funding Fee (unless exempt)
No Monthly Fee
Lower Credit Threshold Eligibility Requirements
Upfront Funding Fee (Financeable)
100% Financing
usda
Eligibility Requirements
Specific Rural Area
Requirements
Better Credit Required
.35% Monthly Forever
1% Upfront Guarantee Fee (Financeable)
100% Financing
Lower Credit Threshold
Monthly Mortgage Insurance Premium (Life of Loan)
MIP Lifetime (unless 10% down payment)
.55% Monthly With <10% Down 3.5% Down Payment
Conventional
Monthly
Better Credit Required
Upfront Financeable
Private Mortgage Insurance (If <20% Down)
Variable Rate Based On Down Payment Or Credit Score
The above loans are most common, but of course there are more options. Check with your lender about other options.
How To Find your Home
MLS
We can show you all the homes for sale from other REALTORS® and Brokerages.
Builders
- Don’t Go unrepresented
Let us introduce you to them and help navigate through the building process. Every builder has their own process.
open houses
Tell us if you are going, so we can let this listing agent know you’ll be there.
online & apps
Use whichever tool works best for you, be cautious of inaccurate estimated values or preforeclosures that aren't for sale yet. If you find a For Sale by Owner (FSBO), let us know and we can help you through the process.
Tips For a Stress-Free Purchase
Choose an experienced realtor And let their expertise guide you home.
Get pre-approved For the loan before you start looking for houses.
know What you can afford and how much you are comfortable spending.
be realistic
Both with your expectations and throughout the process. Trust the process and the professionals Your REALTOR® and lender will help you every step of the way.
Crafting
A Good Offer
As-Is vs. Requesting Repairs from the Seller
Limit contingencies and ask for what you really need
Put yourself in the Seller's shoes and write an offer you'd like to receive
Understand the current market: Seller’s vs. Buyer’s
Offer a substantial escrow deposit
Focus on what is most important
Do not ask for the dog - personal items generally do not stay
Consider shortening timelines such as your inspection period
Offers Types Of
AS-IS CONTRACT (MOST COMMON)
Buyer is entitled to have inspections and may cancel at their sole discretion during the inspection period.
Just as it sounds, after inspections you are purchasing the home in its present condition.
The Seller has no obligation to make repairs or concessions
Unexpected or unforeseen, large-dollar repairs MAY be an exception
ALWAYS reference your actual contract for specific terms.
PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT (
Buyer is entitled to have inspections during the inspection period
Prior to signing a contract, Buyer and Seller agree seller shall pay the following amounts/percentages of the Purchase Price for the following costs and expenses: General Repair Items, WDO Treatment and Repairs, and Permits. Prior to the end of inspection period, buyer must notify seller in writing of items requested within those three categories
Unlike the As-Is contract, these predetermined costs are binding
ALWAYS reference your actual contract for specific terms
Inspections
Regardless, of your loan type or the house you choose, it is always best to have your own, thorough inspections done to your satisfaction. Some loans types require certain inspections.
Most Common Inspections - all done during your contract Inspection Period
General home inspection
Wood-destroying organism (WDO) inspectionchecks for termites and wood rot
Septic inspection (when applicable)
Well & water test (when applicable)
Radon test
Mold test
Soil test (generally vacant land)
Inspections are for your benefit to know the condition you are buying. With a resale, you are purchasing a "used" home and there are bound to be defects. Reference your contract and loan type for what obligations, if any, the Seller has to make repairs. Remember to always be realistic and reasonable.
Building Your Team
How A Real Estate Transaction Works
Initial Consult Getting to know you and your goals
Finding the perfect home for you
Property Search Conducting an evaluation Inspection
Pre-Approval
Determining budget and price range
Make an Offer & Finalize Agreement Negotiating Terms
Timeline
Survey
Determining property boundaries
Obtaining lender and title commitment
Preparing a quote
Insurance Appraisal Valuing your future home
Clear to Close Closing Sign on the line for your new home
Buyer broker agreements & Compensation
A Better Understanding
As of August 17, 2024, Realtors nationwide must have a buyer broker agreement signed prior to touring property.
Signedby buyersbefore touringhome -inpersonor livevirtually
Written Buyer Agreement
Not required when attending an open house.
Fully negotiable and not set by law
Realtorscannot receivemore compensation thanwhatis agreedtoina written agreement
Buyerisableto requestselleror seller’sRealtor® compensatethe buyer’sRealtor®.
Buyer Realtor® Compensation
Ifsellerorseller’s Realtor®doesnot compensatethe buyer’sRealtor®,the buyerisresponsible fortheiragent’s compensation
The Difference
property pretouring agreement
This form provides a way to provide the necessary disclosures of the settlement to you as the consumer prior to showing property The form also provides fundamental information regarding broker compensation.
This form is likely most effective when used at the start of the relationship between the parties, however this form is only temporary We refer to this as the “dating form.”
exclusive buyer broker agreement
The Exclusive Buyer Broker Agreement is a document that provides the details of the exclusive relationship between a Buyer and a Broker. It will spell out the terms such as length of relationship, services provided, agreed upon compensation, etc
This form means you are committing to work with your Realtor® exclusively. We call this the "married form".
Realtor® Compensation
Determine Your Realtors Value
(Outlined in the Buyer Broker Agreement)
Determine What Seller/Seller’s Broker Is Offering
Possibly Negotiate With Seller
(At Time of Offer)
Discuss Other Options
The Value Of A Realtor®
Expertise and Guidance:
A Buyer's Realtor® possesses extensive knowledge of the local real estate market, including trends, property values, and neighborhoods. By working with an Realtor®, consumers can leverage this expertise to make informed decisions about purchasing a property.
Time Savings:
Searching for a property can be time-consuming and overwhelming. A Buyer's Realtor® will streamline the process by identifying suitable properties, scheduling viewings, and handling negotiations on behalf of the buyer, saving them time and effort.
Access to Listings:
Realtors have access to a wide range of listings. This can give consumers access to more options and increase their chances of finding the perfect property.
Negotiation Skills:
Negotiating the terms of a real estate transaction can be complex and intimidating. Buyer's Realtors are trained in negotiation techniques and will advocate for their clients' interests, potentially securing a better deal on the purchase price or other terms of the agreement.
The Value Of A Realtor®
Legal and Contractual Expertise:
Real estate transactions involve a significant amount of paperwork and legalities. Buyer's Realtors will help consumers navigate these complexities, ensuring that all contracts and agreements are in their best interests and compliant with relevant laws and regulations.
Personalized Service:
Buyer's Realtors work closely with their clients to understand their needs, preferences, and budgetary constraints. They will tailor their services to match these requirements, providing a personalized experience that meets the consumer's specific needs and goals.
Peace of Mind:
Buying a home is a major financial and emotional investment. By working with a Buyer's Realtor®, consumers will have confidence that they have a knowledgeable and experienced professional guiding them through the process, reducing stress and uncertainty.
Our Responsibility To You
Advocate for you throughout the entire process. Explain the local market and how it impacts you. Schedule showings and provide access to all listed properties as soon as they become available in their local MLS broker marketplaces. Assist you in getting the best property at the best price.
Prepare you to have the most attractive offer in the current marketplace.
Encourage you to fully investigate their options in terms of a home inspector, title company, appraiser, mortgage lender and other services. Schedule and be present for all appointments. Ensure all parties have all forms and information needed to close the sale.
Prepare you for executing a buyer representation agreement.
Explain how compensation is paid, who pays it, and what your options are for paying it.
Bringing You home
Personalized Guidance
Realtors offer tailored advice and support, helping clients navigate the emotional journey of finding the perfect home or saying goodbye to a beloved one.
Emotional Support
They listen to your concerns, fears, and dreams, acting as a sounding board during what can often be a stressful process.
Celebratory Moments
Realtors share in the joy of milestones, whether it’s celebrating when an offer is accepted or gifting a thoughtful housewarming present to welcome you to your new home.
Community Connections
They help you feel at home by introducing you to the neighborhood, offering local recommendations, and connecting you with community resources.
Ongoing Relationship
Even after the transaction is complete, realtors often stay in touch, checking in to see how you’re settling in and offering help with any home-related needs.
Your Realtor® For Life
Check-Ins: They will follow up to see how you're settling into your new home, ensuring everything is going smoothly and offering assistance if any issues arise.
Home Maintenance Tips: Realtors will provide recommendations for reliable contractors, handymen, or other service providers for any repairs or updates you might need in your new home.
Market Updates: Realtors keep their clients informed about the local real estate market, providing updates on property values, neighborhood developments, or trends that could impact your investment.
Referrals for Future Needs: Whether you’re considering renovations or looking for a mortgage refinance, your Realtor® can connect you with trusted professionals.
Home Equity Assessments: Periodically, a Realtor® may offer to assess your home's current value, giving you insight into your property's equity and the overall market.
Client Appreciation Events: Realtors host events or send tokens of appreciation during holidays or anniversaries of your home purchase, keeping the relationship warm and personal.
Support with Future Real Estate Goals: Whether you’re thinking of upsizing, downsizing, or investing, your Realtor® will help you strategize and plan your next move. By staying engaged, Realtors ensure that their clients feel supported and valued long after the transaction is complete.
