HOMEBUYER’S GUIDE
A resource to help guide you through the homebuying experience from start to finish
Unstoppable Starts HereSM
When you decide to work with a REMAX® agent, you can feel confident you’ve made a smart choice (and not just because REMAX is the #1 name in real estate ).1
There’s a reason more buyers and sellers think of REMAX than any other real estate brand , and it lies in more than 50 years of experience, adaptability and evolution This brokerage is not a pop-up, a trend or a fad These roots run deep, and experience runs wide network-wide. You can trust the REMAX foundation was built strong.
Founded in 1973 by Dave and Gail Liniger, REMAX stands for “Real Estate Maximums ” The new name and concept intended to disrupt the industry by creating an innovative, entrepreneurial culture that affords its agents and franchisees the flexibility to operate their businesses with greater independence
And disrupt it did
Now, with more than 145,000 agents in nearly 9,000 offices and a presence in over 110 countries and territories, nobody in the world sells more real estate than REMAX3
It took unstoppable grit, continuous learning, agile navigating and, most of all, passion. That’s why the REMAX network offers more real estate sales experience than other agents, giving you the confidence to navigate any market with a trusted professional
26,000 93,000+ 11,000 83,000+ 126,000+ 13,000 33,900 25,000+
The Road Home
You’ve heard it before: buying a home may be the largest purchase you will ever make. Does that make you nervous? Consider this: it can also be one of the best investments you will ever make.
From the pride you feel by being a homeowner to the potential tax deductions associated with homeownership, the benefits are plenty. If you’re ready to travel the road toward homeownership, take your first step with the REMAX® Homebuyer’s Guide. This guide is a resource to help familiarize you with the homebuying process and present you with relevant information, including a list of terms, things to consider when choosing a home and a checklist to help you make decisions that are right for you.
®
WHY CHOOSE A REMAX AGENT?
For over 50 years, REMAX has been building a global network of highly productive, fulltime real estate professionals REMAX agents average more sales and have more real estate sales experience than other real estate agents
What does this mean for you? It means when you work with a REMAX agent, you are getting a dedicated real estate professional with access to a vast knowledge base, as well as the tools and support they need to help you find and purchase the right home
10 STEPS TO PURCHASING A HOME
Choose a real estate agent that’s right for you
Know your budget
Explore mortgage options, get preapproved.
Create a remax com account and browse homes online
Identify homes you like and schedule home tours
Make an offer
Get a home inspection
Close the deal
Update utilities and transfer services
Move into your new home!
FIRST NAME LAST NAME
REALTOR® | ASSOCIATE
Licensed Realtor since 2014, serving the Denver Metro area
Known for her integrity, professionalism & personalized client care
Passionate about helping buyers & sellers navigate the real estate process with confidence
Builds lasting relationships through clear communication & a client-first approach
Loves hiking, golfing, reading, and spending time with her husband & four kids
What People Say?
Seeforyourself!
Donna S.
Jason N.
Murad N.
Colorado Expertise. Global Reach. 25+ Locations
Locally owned and globally recognized, REMAX Alliance has grown into one of Colorado’s largest and most trusted real estate networks, with 25 offices serving communities along the Front Range and beyond Founded in 1978 by Colorado native Chuck Ochsner, the company was built on integrity, trust, and hard work values that continue to define it today
Over the decades, REMAX Alliance has earned a statewide reputation for community, collaboration, and excellence, providing agents with innovative tools, cutting-edge marketing, and a supportive culture Today, it continues to shape the Colorado real estate landscape, blending the power of a global brand with the heart of local ownership.
*Map is for illustrative purposes only Locations are approximate and subject to change
Home Buying Process Pt 1
MEET WITH YOUR AGENT
Every successful home purchase begins with a conversation We'll discuss your goals, timeline, lifestyle, budget, and what you're looking for in your next home I'll answer your questions, explain the buying process, and create a personalized strategy so you know exactly what to expect
BUYER ADVANTAGE:
You'll have a trusted advisor helping you navigate every step, avoid costly mistakes, and make informed decisions with confidence
GET PRE APPROVED
Before we begin touring homes, you'll connect with a trusted lender to determine your purchasing power A pre approval strengthens your position, helps define your budget, and shows sellers you're a serious buyer.
PRO TIP:
A pre approval often gives buyers a competitive advantage, especially in multiple offer situations
Together we'll build your home search around what matters most. We'll identify your must haves, nice to haves, preferred neighborhoods, commute, schools, lifestyle, and long term goals so we can focus on homes that truly fit your needs
We'll schedule private showings, attend open houses when appropriate, and evaluate each property together. I'll help you look beyond finishes to identify value, resale potential, and any concerns you should consider before making an offer.
Once you've found the one, we'll review comparable sales, current market conditions, and your priorities before preparing a competitive offer designed to give you the strongest chance of success.
Home Buying Process Pt 2
I'll prepare your offer and negotiate on your behalf Together we'll discuss price, contingencies, timelines, and negotiation strategies to help secure the best possible terms while protecting your interests
UNDER CONTRACT
Congratulations! Once your offer is accepted, the transaction moves into the contract phase During this time, your lender finalizes financing, the title company begins its work, and we'll carefully manage every deadline along the way
REMINDER:
I'll coordinate with all parties to keep everything on track from contract to closing.
INSPECTIONS & APPRAISAL
We'll schedule the home inspection and review the results together If repairs or credits are needed, I'll negotiate on your behalf If required by your lender, the appraisal will confirm the home's market value before closing
CLOSING
9 Congratulations! You've reached the finish line.
Before closing, we'll complete a final walk through to confirm the home's condition At closing, you'll sign the necessary documents, finalize your loan, receive the keys, and officially become a homeowner
10 My commitment doesn't end after closing Whether you need contractor recommendations, market updates, refinancing advice, or have questions years from now, I'm always here as your trusted real estate resource.
Start Your Home Search
As a homebuyer, you can expect to see an array of different home styles and designs. You’ve got the choice of single-family, condo, townhome, lakefront, acreage or luxury; you can also choose single-story, multiple-story or split-level. In addition, you can choose a pre-existing home or new construction. In other words, you’ve got options. But what’s most important is that you choose a home that complements your lifestyle and your income. To narrow down your choices:
Know your budget and stick to it
Determine a desired location
Consider how many bedrooms, bathrooms and square feet you need
Decide which amenities are must-haves versus like-to-haves
Consider your needs for outdoor space, like a yard or balcony
Once you’ve identified your must-haves, browse listings on remax com and ask your REMAX agent to send you listings that meet your criteria via email, text message or social media Your agent will coordinate showings for properties you’d like to see in person
FOUR THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN VIEWING HOUSES ONLINE
There are lots of things a potential buyer can do to get a feel for a property by simply utilizing the tools that are available online
Your REMAX agent is a great resource to lean on, as they often have local insights on the property that may not be included in the MLS listing description
Analyze the Photos
Make sure you take a look at all the photos and spend some time noting where windows are and what the natural light is like in the space Another good thing to consider when looking through the photos is how your own furniture will look in the space If the photos of the home are furniture-free, allow yourself to mentally place furniture where you think it may look best If the property is staged, take into consideration where different furniture pieces are placed and how you could change the layout to work for you and your style
Take Note of Potential Fixes/Renovations
If you’re looking at a property online that may need some upgrades, take note of those See which elements of the home work for you and which areas you would consider renovating in the future And remember, paint color is an easy, relatively inexpensive change that makes a huge difference in a home!
3.
Consider the Outdoor Space
One thing that many people forget to consider when viewing a home online is the outdoor space. Whether it is a small balcony or a large backyard, outdoor space is definitely something to try to get a feel for when viewing a home virtually Take account of what furniture you may need to invest in to fit into the space Be sure to consider any maintenance that may be required, as well as how it may be affected by different seasons Will you need to trim and maintain trees or clear snow from a large driveway?
4.
3D & Virtual Tours
Many agents now provide 3D tours or virtual walk-throughs of their listings. 3D tours allow you to view a property from the comfort of your own home, while also giving you the freedom to virtually navigate your way through the property This will help you get a feel for the floor plan and layout of a home without having to actually set foot on the property
COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS (CMA)
This is how we determine a competitive offer price for the home you're buying. It is both an art and a science.
THE SCIENCE
I research recent sales, active listings, pending transactions, and current market trends to evaluate comparable properties Factors such as location, square footage, bedrooms, bathrooms, lot size, condition, and unique features are analyzed to understand how the home compares to others in today's market
THE ART
Every home is unique, and numbers only tell part of the story Local market knowledge, neighborhood trends, property condition, upgrades, views, and buyer demand all play an important role in determining a property's value By combining data with real world experience, I help you make a competitive offer while avoiding overpaying
NOTE
A Comparative Market Analysis requires market expertise, neighborhood knowledge, and careful evaluation. An inaccurate analysis can result in offering too much, missing opportunities, or overlooking important market factors. My goal is to provide you with the information and guidance needed to make a confident, informed decision.
INSPECTION
Buying a home is one of the single largest investments you will make in your lifetime. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected expenses, you need an objective, detailed examination of the physical structure and systems of the house, from the roof to the foundation
A home inspection generally covers:
Exterior features: walls, roof, decks, chimney, drainage conditions, etc.
Interior items: windows, plumbing, electrical panel, appliances, heating/cooling systems and big ticket areas like the crawlspace, foundation and attic
Structural pest inspection
Additional items to consider:
Sewer scope or septic inspection if applicable
Lead-based paint for homes built before 1978
Items that might need further inspection by a specialist, such as roofing, electrical or plumbing
NOTE
Ask your real estate Broker for recommendations on a quality, licensed inspector who will provide a detailed report with digital photos A qualified inspection will allow you to be confident and have the knowledge to move forward to make an informed decision
APPRAISAL
An appraisal is a comprehensive look at a home’s location, condition and eligibility for federal guarantees For example, a home that doesn’t meet safety requirements, such as handrails on steps, will not be eligible for FHA or VA loans until the handrail is installed or repaired. Appraisers are members of the MLS, like real estate Brokers, but they must abide by additional guidelines that minimize risk to the buyer’s lender.
When the appraisal is finished, the lender will determine the home’s value They may also require the seller to fix certain items before proceeding toward closing If the property doesn’t meet the lender’s parameters, the lender can decline the loan Although stricter lending practices have been implemented over the last decade this has resulted in improved appraisal standards. Most buyers’ loan applications result in a successful closing.
NOTE
A good Broker can protect you by recognizing qualities in a home that may become appraisal concerns, prior to writing the offer
SUBMITTING A STRONG OFFER
I will advise you on:
Market climate, timing, pricing and strategy
Potential for multiple offers and strategies to successfully compete against other buyers
When applicable, an action plan to strengthen your offer including pre-inspection, altered contingencies, earnest money, closing timeline, seller rent back and more
Once an offer has been accepted by both parties, I will:
Keep you updated on all time-lines and milestones
Keep track of all contingency due dates and expirations
Order title and escrow and assist with earnest money deposit
Stay in close communication with your lender to ensure a smooth closing
Advise and represent you in all further negotiations
Facilitate all appointments
Ensure that contractual deadlines are met and your overall experience is enjoyable
CLOSING COSTS
These are the customary fees associated with a real estate transaction, and who typically pays them.
BUYER'S CLOSING FEES
Lender’s Title Insurance Policy (Loan Policy)
Buyer’s Closing Fee (often split with seller)
Home Inspection(s)
Radon/Sewer/Additional Inspections (if desired)
Real Estate Brokerage Compensation* (if applicable)
Recording Fees
First-Year Home Insurance Premium
First-Year Flood Insurance Premium (if in flood zone)
HOA Transfer / Setup Fees (if applicable)
Improvement Location Certificate (ILC) if requested (optional replaces “survey fee” in CO)
Lender Fees (appraisal, credit report, origination, pre-paids, PMI if required)
Pro-Rated HOA Dues (if applicable)
SELLER'S CLOSING FEES
Owner’s Title Insurance (Owner’s Policy)
Listing Brokerage Compensation*
Loan Payoff Balances
Pro-Rated Property Taxes
Current Utility Balances
Homeowner’s Association Fees (if applicable)
Pro-Rated HOA Dues (if applicable)
HOA Transfer Fees / Status Letter Fees (varies by HOA)
Cosmetic or agreed-upon repairs (if negotiated)
Septic or Well Testing (only if applicable and required by county or negotiated)
Closing Fee (often split with buyer, depending on title company)
