RML -Renée MeuseLovley-
BROKER/REALTOR
THE SIGNATURE GUIDEBOOK
All photos featured in this guidebook are of Lovley Development homes.
T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S
RENÉE MEUSE LOVLEY
#1
AGENT IN CT RANKED BY C21
#17
AGENT IN NATION RANKED BY C21
80 AVERAGE ANNUAL TRANSACTIONS
10+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
As a seasoned real estate agent with over a decade of experience in the industry, I have a proven track record of successfully selling homes in a variety of markets. My expertise in pricing, marketing, and negotiating has helped me consistently achieve top dollar for my sellers.
I understand that the sale of a home can be both exciting and overwhelming, and I pride myself on providing exceptional customer service and clear, proactive communication throughout every stage of the process
My dedication to excellence has earned me recognition as a top-producing agent on a local, state, national and global level These honors are a testament to my consistent performance and unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding results for my clients year after year. I’m proud to be ranked among the best in the industry and to bring that same level of professionalism, market knowledge, and personalized care to every transaction.
Specializing in Lovley Development, Inc. properties - and extending beyond - I look forward to helping you navigate a successful and rewarding real estate journey.
*Century21AgentRankingsBasedonVolumeandUnitsClosed2024
BROKER ASSOCIATE
R E N T E
K M A N
TRUSTED PARTNERS
oven track record in real estate marketing, transaction
With extensive experience working alongside Lovley Development and a deep understanding of their communities and products, he brings unmatched insight to new construction and resale opportunities.
His attention to detail makes him a standout professional in the real estate industry. Brent’s dedication, strategic approach, and creative vision ensure a seamless and successful real estate experience.
Whether you're looking to buy your dream home, sell a cherished property, or make a smart investment, Brent is here to guide you every step of the way.
Century 21 AllPoints Realty
203.695.8486
brent@brenteckman realtor
JEREMY TAYLOR CHIP POEHNERT
Closing Attorney
A trusted local attorney who specializes in both real estate transactions and estate planning
Law Offices of Jeremy Taylor
876 South Main Street, Plantsville, CT 06479
860-628-0900
jt@jeremytaylorlaw com
Loan Officer
Working closely with buyers, builders, and homeowners to ensure a smooth financing process from start to finish
Liberty Bank
Mortgage Loan Officer 860-202-6660
cpoehnert@liberty-bank com
"FROM OUR VERY FIRST MEETING, I KNEW I WAS IN GOOD HANDS."
STIMONIALS
"I recently had the pleasure of working with Renée to sell my home, and I couldn't be happier with the results. From our very first meeting, I knew I was in good hands. Renée was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly responsive to all of my questions and concerns Her marketing strategies and professionalism were topnotch, and I truly believe that her expertise helped me get the best possible price for my home. I would highly recommend Renée to anyone looking to buy or sell a home."
"I cannot recommend Renée enough. From start to finish, Renée went above and beyond to ensure that the sale of my home was smooth and stress-free. Not only did she provide expert guidance on pricing but she also went the extra mile to market my home to the right buyers Thanks to her efforts, my home sold quickly and at a price that far exceeded my expectations I am grateful for her hard work and expertise."
“I had the pleasure of working with Renée as my real estate agent and I couldn't be more satisfied with her exceptional service From the moment we met, she was attentive to my needs and listened carefully to what I was looking for in a home. She was patient and never pressured me to make a quick decision. Her extensive knowledge of the real estate market and negotiating skills were invaluable in helping me find the perfect home "
110 LAURELWOOD DR
Southington, CT
4 BD 3 BA 1 HB 3,757 SF
$1,130,000
WHISPERING OAKS
Cheshire, CT
20 Custom Homes
$750,000 - $1,600,000
WINCHESTER ESTATES
Southington, CT
34 Custom Luxury Homes
$800,000 - $1,500,000
ABERDEEN ESTATES
Middlebury, CT
32 Townhomes 55+
$500,000 - $700,000
725 WHISPERING OAKS CT
Cheshire, CT
4 BD 4 BA 6,298 SF
$1,599,900
WILLOW BROOK ESTATES
Farmington/Plainville, CT
61 Custom Ranch Homes 55+
$400,000 - $550,000
R E C E N T L Y S O L D
CENTURY 21
ALLPOINTS REALTY
Century 21 AllPoints Realty is a full-service real estate company with deep roots in Connecticut and a steadfast commitment to excellence in every transaction.
As one of the largest and most productive Century 21 firms in the state, AllPoints Realty combines the strength of a trusted global brand with the insight of local market expertise delivering outstanding results for every client.
Family-owned and operated since its founding, the company proudly places people above everything, making genuine client relationships the heart of its business With decades of experience and recognition as one of the top Century 21 offices in Connecticut, AllPoints Realty has earned a reputation built on credibility, consistency, and trust.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned seller, or an experienced investor, AllPoints Realty’s team of dedicated agents provides expert guidance through every step of the process from property search and negotiation to inspection, financing, and closing.
Guiding you home with experience, integrity, and care.
L I S T I N G
LISTING SERVICES
ANCE
Maximum GRAPHY
Aerial OR PLANS ential Buyers very ARKETING ail Campaigns, tform
TY FLYERS
Highlighting
01 / AGENT
Select a reputable and experienced real estate agent to represent you and your property
SELLER ROAD MAP
02 / PRICE
Your agent will look at comparable sales in the area, market trends, and the condition of your property to help you set an asking price
03 / PREP
Make necessary repairs, declutter, and stage your home to make it appealing to potential buyers. Your agent will provide advice on how to make your home more marketable.
05 / OFFERS
Your agent will present any offers received on your home, and you'll have the opportunity to negotiate with the buyer to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
04 / MARKET
Your agent will create a marketing plan to promote your property, including listing it on the MLS, capturing high-quality photos and videos, hosting open houses, and advertising to potential buyers
06 / UNDER CONTRACT
You and the buyer have agreed to the terms of the offer and both parties have signed the agreements.
07 / FINAL DETAILS
The buyer works with their mortgage provider to finalize the loan and complete all necessary tasks such as inspections.
08 / CLOSING
Transfer of funds and ownership are complete and seller is all packed up and ready to move.
PRICING YOUR HOME RIGHT
Homes priced at fair market value, or slightly below, generate the most attention in the critical first few weeks, drawing the highest number of qualified buyers
Overpricing, on the other hand, limits interest and showings Buyers are savvy They compare homes and quickly recognize when a property is priced above its value based on location and condition.
If a home sits on the market too long with little activity, it can create a negative perception among buyers and agents, suggesting potential issues or an unrealistic seller
Strategic pricing is key It maximizes visibility, encourages competition, and often leads to multiple offersultimately securing the best possible return.
IF THE ASKING
PRICE IS THE PROPERTY APPEALS TO
10% of Buyers
30% of Buyers
60% of Buyers
75% of Buyers
15% below Market Value
90% of Buyers
CONSIDER THE PROPERTY'S UNIQUE FEATURES
We'll evaluate your property's unique features and amenities to consider how they impact its value relative to comparables in the area
SET A REALISTIC PRICE
Based on the market analysis and your property's features, we'll set a realistic and competitive price Keep in mind that overpricing can lead to a longer time on the market and potentially lower offers, while underpricing can leave money on the table.
CONSIDER PRICING STRATEGIES
In a competitive market, pricing the property slightly below market value could attract more buyers and result in multiple offers. Alternatively, if the property has highly soughtafter amenities or is in a desirable location, pricing it higher could lead to a quicker sale at a higher price.
BE OPEN TO FEEDBACK
It's important to be open to feedback from potential buyers and their agents. If you're not receiving the level of interest you had hoped for, we'll consider adjusting the price or marketing approach to better align with market demand.
P R I C I N G S T R A T E G Y
02 03 04 05 13
PREPARING YOUR HOME TO SELL
DECLUTTER AND DEPERSONALIZE
A cluttered and personal space can make it difficult for potential buyers to envision themselves in the space. Remove personal items and keep the space clean and organized.
CLEAN AND STAGE
Clean the house thoroughly and consider staging it to make it more attractive to potential buyers Staging can highlight the home's best features and help a buyer picture themself living in the home.
MAKE NECESSARY REPAIRS
Address any necessary repairs or improvements before listing the property This can include fixing leaky faucets, patching holes in walls, and updating outdated fixtures
IMPROVE CURB APPEAL
First impressions matter, so take time to improve the exterior of the home. This could include adding fresh landscaping, painting the front door, or power-washing the exterior of the house
PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS & VIDEOS
Hiring a professional photographer to take high-quality photos and videos are essential for marketing your property. The professional photographer will capture your home's best features and help it stand out online
PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY
The first step is to have a professional photographer take high-quality photos and videos of your property. The photos and videos should be bright, clear, and showcase the best features of the home.
ONLINE
02 MARKETING STRATEGY
VIRTUAL TOUR
Creating a virtual tour of your property will allow potential buyers to view the home from the comfort of their own computer or smartphone. This will give buyers a better sense of the layout and help them visualize living in the space.
Your property will be listed on popular online real estate websites such as Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com. Detailed description of the property, its features, and its location to be included.
Your property will be shared on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter to reach a wider audience. Additionally, targeted ads will run to reach specific demographics and increase exposure.
OPEN HOUSES
We'll host open houses for potential buyers to come and view your property in person. This is a great opportunity to highlight the features of the home and answer any questions that buyers may have
PRINT ADVERTISING
06
Custom flyers, brochures and mailers will be designed and distributed to local businesses and prospective buyers. We'll also place ads in local newspapers and real estate magazines to target the ideal buyer
07 PUBLIC RELATIONS 08NETWORKING
We will carefully craft a story around your unique property and pitch it out to local Real Estate websites and newspapers for even more exposure
We'll utilize Century 21's network to spread the word
THE SHOWING PROCESS
ACCESS TO YOUR HOME
An electronic lockbox will be installed on your property Only licensed real estate agents have access to this system through a secure, trackable app. This ensures your home remains safe while allowing verified agents to easily schedule and show the property to interested buyers.
THE SHOWING APP
Buyers and their agents will schedule showings in advance, and you’ll receive notifications with the requested date and time Showings are managed through the ShowingTime app, which allows you to easily confirm or decline appointment requests as they come through by text If your home is vacant, showings are automatically approved, and buyers’ agents are notified that the property is available to show at any time within the designated showing window This ensures maximum convenience and accessibility for potential buyers.
BEFORE THE SHOWING
It’s best to leave the home 10–15 minutes before the scheduled appointment. Agents like to arrive early to familiarize themselves with the layout before the buyers arrive, and anxious buyers tend to arrive early as well. Before leaving, take a moment to make sure:
Lights are turned on in every room
Blinds and curtains are open for natural light
Counters and surfaces are clear of clutter
Personal items and valuables are safely put away
A welcoming, well-lit home creates a lasting first impression
DURING THE SHOWING
Showings typically last between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the size of your home and the level of buyer interest. A longer visit often indicates serious interest - buyers may be taking time to look closely at features important to them, ask questions, or discuss potential offers In some cases, interested buyers will schedule a second showing to return with family members, contractors, or friends for additional opinions on the property
AFTER THE SHOWING
Once the showing concludes, the buyer’s agent will ensure all doors are locked and lights are turned off. Your listing agent will then reach out to the showing agent to request feedback. This feedback is valuable - it helps gauge buyer reactions, address any concerns, and determine whether adjustments to presentation or pricing may be beneficial.
OFFER TYPES
FINANCED OFFER
The buyer is obtaining a mortgage; the sale will depend on the lender’s approval and an appraisal of the property’s value.
CASH OFFER
The buyer is paying in full without financing These offers often close faster and carry fewer contingencies.
FHA / VA / USDA OFFER
Government-backed loans that may include additional property or appraisal requirements
CONTINGENT OFFER
The buyer’s purchase depends on another event, such as selling their current home or finalizing financing.
OFFER STRENGTH
Documentation confirming the buyer’s ability to purchase. In a cash sale, proof of funds would be required PRE-APPROVAL
CONTINGENCIES
Fewer conditions mean fewer opportunities for the deal to fall through
FLEXIBLE CLOSING TIMELINE
The ability to align with the seller’s preferred timing adds appeal.
EARNEST MONEY DEPOSIT
A meaningful deposit demonstrates commitment and seriousness.
INSPECTION
Buyers waiving inspections, or performing inspections for “informational purposes” only tend to create smoother transactions.
CLOSING PROCESS
HOME INSPECTION
Typically, the buyer arranges for a home inspection to ensure that there are no major issues with the property. If any issues are identified, the buyer may request repairs or a reduction in the purchase price.
TITLE SEARCH & INSURANCE
A title search will be conducted to ensure that the seller has clear ownership of the property and that there are no liens or other issues with the title The buyer will typically purchase title insurance to protect against any issues that may arise in the future
CLOSING DOCUMENTS
The closing disclosure outlines the final terms and costs associated with the purchase Both the buyer and seller will need to review and approve this document before moving forward.
CLOSING COSTS
The buyer and seller will need to pay closing costs, which can include fees for the title search, title insurance, appraisal, attorney fees, and other expenses.
TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP
The closing attorneys will transfer ownership of the property from the seller to the buyer. The seller will need to provide the keys to the property, and the buyer can take possession of the home.
FROM OFER TO CLOSING
Step Description
OfferAccepted
Home
Contract executed & escrow deposit submitted
Buyer’s inspection & any repairs discussed.
Lender orders appraisal to verify propertyvalues.
Lender issues final approval (“Clear to Close”)
Closing Day Documents signed & ownership officially transfers.
Timeframe
Day 0
Days 5-10
Weeks 2-3
Weeks 3-5
Weeks 4-6
REAL ESTATE COMMISSION
Commission typically ranges 5%–6% of your home’s final sale price and split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent It covers marketing, showings, negotiations, and guidance throughout the sale 01
ATTORNEY FEES
In Connecticut, sellers hire a real estate attorney to handle closing documents and legal paperwork. Typical costs range from $800 to $1,500
STATE & LOCAL CONVEYANCE TAX
In Connecticut, the state tax is 0 75% of the first $800,000 of the selling price. The amount over $800,000 to $2,500,000 is taxed at the rate of 1.25%. The average municipal conveyance tax rate is 0.25%
PRE SALE PREP
Light repairs and deep cleaning, are common investments sellers make to prepare for market Depending on the home’s condition and goals, budgeting between $500 and $5,000 is often recommended.
RECORDING FEES
These include document prep, recording fees, and other charges, typically adding up to $125–$300, and would be quoted directly by your closing attorney. 02 03 04 05
MORTGAGE PAYOFF
Any remaining balance on the mortgage is paid directly from the sale proceeds. The lender provides an official payoff amount prior to closing to ensure the loan is fully satisfied 06
C L O S I N G C O S T S
UR PROMISE
Assist you in preparing your home for sale, including recommending any necessary repairs or upgrades to maximize your sale price.
Market your property through a variety of channels to ensure maximum exposure to potential buyers.
Provide you with regular updates on the status of your home sale and any feedback received from potential buyers
Work tirelessly to get you the best possible price for your home.
Handle all negotiations with potential buyers on your behalf, and will work to secure the best possible terms for you.
Be available to answer any questions you may have and provide guidance and support every step of the way
B U Y E R
BUYER ROADMAP
BUDGET AGENT
Determine your budget depending on your income, expenses, and other financial obligations.
MORTGAGE
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage can give you a better idea of how much you can afford to spend on a home.
Sign agency documents with your agent to guide you through the buying process.
HOME SEARCH
Start searching for homes via online listings, attending open houses and scheduling showings with your agent.
OFFER/NEGOTIATE
Your agent will prepare your offer based on the price and terms you choose It may go back and forth if the seller counters
ESCROW
You and the seller have agreed to the price and terms The home is held for you until closing
Your agent will assist you with the final details such as the appraisal, home inspection and finalizing your loan
and ownership of the
6
BUYER CHECKLIST
Calculate your monthly income/debt
Check your credit report/FICO score
Use a mortgage calculator
Establish your downpayment
Choose your mortgage type
Research to find the best lender
Shop for the best interest rates
DETERMINE YOUR WANTS & NEEDS IN A HOME WORK WITH A REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
Choose a location
Choose a type of home
Choose a size
Choose a price range
Askaboutbuyer'srepresentationagreements
Gooveryourwantsandneeds Startyourhomesearch
BUYER CHECKLIST
Youragentwillsetupnewlisting notificationsforyou
Browsepropertiesonline
Goonhometoursandattendopenhouses
Determine the purchase price and include any contingencies
Read the Purchase and Sale agreement thoroughly before signing
Place a competitive bid and be prepared to make a counter offer
Your agent will assist you with requesting the home appraisal and home inspection
Choose a home insurance company
Complete the loan process with the lender
Review the settlement document prior to closing to see how funds will be collected/distributed
Obtain a cashier's check for the amount you need to bring to closing, including he down payment and closing costs
MORTGAGE PRE-APPROVAL
GATHER YOUR FINANCIAL INFORMATION
This includes your income, employment history, credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and any assets or liabilities you have
CHOOSE A LENDER
You can research lenders online, ask for referrals from friends and family, or work with a mortgage broker who can connect you with different lenders.
SUBMIT AN APPLICATION
You'll need to fill out an application form and provide your financial information to the lender. Some lenders may charge a fee for the application process.
GET PRE-APPROVED
The lender will review your application and credit report to determine if you meet their lending criteria. If you're approved, you'll receive a pre-approval letter that outlines the amount you're approved to borrow and the terms of the loan.
START HOUSE HUNTING
Armed with your pre-approval letter, you can start looking for a home within your budget. When you find a property you want to buy, you'll submit a formal mortgage application to the lender.
HOME LOAN APPLICATION CHECKLIST
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Full name
Date of birth
Social security number
Contact information (phone, email, address)
EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION
Current employer’s name, address, and phone number
Length of time with current employer
Position/title
Income information (salary, bonuses, commissions, etc.)
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Bank account information (checking, savings, investments, etc.)
Other assets (real estate, vehicles, etc.)
Current debts (credit cards, student loans, car loans, etc.)
Credit score and history
PROPERTY INFORMATION
Property address
Type of property (single-family, condo, townhouse, etc.)
Purchase price
Down payment amount
DOCUMENTATION
Government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, etc.)
Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, etc.)
Bank statements W-2 forms
Employment verification letter
Homeowners insurance policy
H O M E W I S H L I S T
LOCATION
Neighborhood
Proximity to work/school
Proximity to public transportation
Proximity to shopping, entertainment, and other amenities
Safety and security of the area
SIZE & LAYOUT
Number of bedrooms
Number of bathrooms
Square footage
Open-concept or traditional layout
Single-story or multi-story
OUTDOOR SPACE
Size and type of yard
Privacy
Outdoor entertainment area (patio, deck, etc.)
Pool, hot tub, or other outdoor features
FEATURES
Kitchen appliances (stainless steel, etc.)
Flooring (hardwood, tile, etc.)
Fireplace
Energy-efficient features (solar panels, insulation, etc.)
Smart home technology (thermostat, lighting, etc.)
STORAGE & PARKING
Garage size and type
Storage space (basement, attic, etc.)
Closet space
Parking availability (driveway, street, etc.)
MISCELLANEOUS
Age and condition of the home
Potential for renovations or upgrades
Homeowners association (HOA) fees and rules
Property taxes
Homeowner's insurance
HOME SEARCH ONLINE SEARCH
Many websites allow you to search for properties based on your criteria, such as price, location, number of bedrooms, and other features. You can also set up alerts to receive notifications when new properties become available.
OPEN HOUSES
Open houses are a great way to tour properties and get a feel for the layout and features. You can also ask the listing agent questions about the property and the local market.
PRIVATE TOURS
If you're interested in a particular property, you can schedule a private tour with your real estate agent. This will give you a chance to see the property in more detail and ask any questions you may have.
After you've seen several properties, you'll start to get a sense of what you like and what you don't. Consider the location, size, layout, condition, and other factors when evaluating each property.
01 02 03 04 05
Find out what’s important to the seller and craft your offer around that It’s all about being a hassle-free buyer For example, they may want a quick closing because they have to start a new job in a different state, or they may want to stay in the house a month or two after the sale of the house Whatever it is, try to accommodate it in your offer
Keep your offer friendly. Stay away from demands that are likely to irritate or frustrate the seller. Don’t let a few hundred dollars or even a few thousand dollars stand in the way of getting the home you want. Let your generosity shine through and set your offer apart by giving the sellers more time to move out or leasing it back to them for a month or two if they need it.
Use an escalation clause. If a seller and seller's agent allow to accept an escalation clause, it can be used as a creative way to out bid another buyer's offer without committing to a higher price than what’s truly needed to win. An offer, for example, $2,000 over the highest offer up to a certain capped amount, with proof of the highest offer shown would escalate your offer if/when needed
Show you’re serious with more earnest money. Show the seller that you’re willing to put your own money on the line to let them know how much you want to buy their home. It used to be that you could get away with a $5,000 earnest money deposit. No longer 1% is customary, but if you can, consider putting down between 2% and 5%. The seller wants to know you have some skin in the game.
Designate some of your earnest money as non-refundable. If you can chalk it up to the cost of finding the right home, show in your offer that some of your earnest money is nonrefundable once negotiations have reached a certain point. Again, this can go a long way in showing that you’re serious about buying the property.
0 O F F E R S T H A T S T A N D O U T 07 08 09 10
Designate some of your earnest money as non-refundable. If you can chalk it up to the cost of finding the right home, show in your offer that some of your earnest money is nonrefundable once negotiations have reached a certain point Again, this can go a long way in showing that you’re serious about buying the property
Cash is king. Not everyone can purchase a home outright with cash but if you can, it can give you a meaningful edge over other buyers. A cash offer signals to the seller that you’re serious, financially prepared, and ready to move quickly. Unlike financed offers, a cash purchase doesn’t depend on lender approval, appraisals, or last-minute loan conditions.
Shorten inspection time frames. Whether the buyer has a set number of days to complete the inspections or they are proposing their own schedule to the seller, shortening the expected timeline could improve your odds of success 14 days is customary, but 10 days or less allows the seller less time to worry about issues that can arise
Keep contingencies to a minimum. As a buyer, you have the right to add contingencies to your offer. That means you are offering to purchase the property as long as these things happen like you get approved for your loan, the property gets appraised appropriately or the inspection comes back without any major complications To make your offer more engaging, you may consider waiving one or more of these contingencies
Write the seller a personal letter. This strategy gives you the opportunity to talk to the seller about why you are going to love this house as much as they do Appeal to their emotions by listing the reasons why the house will be so perfect for your family Does it have a workshop? Explain how you’ve always wanted a place of your own for projects and crafts Does it have a great backyard? Talk about how your dream is to be “the place” where all the kids and friends hang out.
SUBMIT YOUR OFFER
Once you've found a home you're interested in, you'll submit an offer to the seller The offer will include the purchase price, earnest money down, financing information (if applicable), proposed closing date, and any contingencies, such as a home inspection. It also needs to be accompanied by proof of funds or pre-approval letter from your lender.
NEGOTIATE
The seller may counter your offer with a higher price or different terms You can either accept the counteroffer, make a new offer, or walk away from the deal
OFFERS & NEGOTATIONS
HOME INSPECTION
A home inspection is a thorough examination of a property to identify any potential issues or defects that may affect its value or safety. The inspection is performed by a licensed home inspector hired by the buyer. The inspection typically includes:
Checking the overall condition of the property, including its structural integrity, foundation, roof, walls, and floors.
Inspecting the electrical, plumbing, and heating/cooling systems
Checking for the presence of mold, pests, or other environmental hazards
Examining any additional features of the property, such as a swimming pool or fireplace
The home inspector will then provide a detailed report outlining any issues they discovered during the inspection. The buyer can then use this information to negotiate repairs or a credit at closing.
HOME APPRAISAL
An appraisal is an assessment of the property's value conducted by a licensed appraiser hired by the buyer's lender. The purpose of the appraisal is to determine the fair market value of the property and ensure that the purchase price is appropriate.
The appraiser will evaluate the property's location, size, condition, and any recent improvements or renovations. They will also look at comparable properties in the area to determine how the property's value compares to others
Once the appraisal is complete, the appraiser will provide a report to the lender If the appraised value is lower than the purchase price, the buyer may need to renegotiate the price or make a larger down payment to secure financing.
N YOUR HOME
01
02
FINAL WALK-THROUGH
Prior to closing, the buyer will typically do a final walk-through of the property to ensure that everything is in order and any agreed-upon repairs have been completed
CLOSING DISCLOSURE REVIEW
The buyer will receive a Closing Disclosure from the lender at least three days before closing. This document outlines the final terms of the loan and includes details such as the interest rate, monthly payments, and closing costs.
PAYMENT OF CLOSING COSTS
03 04 05
The buyer will need to bring a cashier's check or wire transfer the funds to cover the closing costs, which can include things like loan origination fees, appraisal fees, and title insurance
SIGNING OF DOCUMENTS
At the closing, the buyer will need to sign a variety of documents, including the mortgage note, the deed of trust or mortgage, and the closing statement.
TITLE TRANSFER
The buyer will receive the keys to the property once the title and funds have been transferred and the closing process is complete.
MOVING CHECKLIST
SET A MOVING DATE
Choose a date that works for you and give yourself enough time to plan and prepare.
HIRE A MOVING COMPANY
Research moving companies and choose one that fits your budget and needs Get quotes from at least three different companies
DECLUTTER AND ORGANIZE
Sort through your belongings and decide what you want to keep, sell, donate, or throw away Start packing non-essential items
NOTIFY SERVICE PROVIDERS
Notify your utility providers, internet, and cable companies of your upcoming move and arrange for services to be discontinued or transferred to your new home.
CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS
Change your address with the post office, banks, credit card companies, insurance companies, and any other important organizations.
PACK
Begin packing items you won’t need until after the move, such as out-of-season clothes, books, and home décor.
LABEL BOXES
Label each box with the contents and the room it should be placed in your new home.
TRANSPORTATION
Make travel arrangements for you and your family Whether renting a car, scheduling a flight or reserving a hotel room, book a time that will give you flexibility. Be sure to arrive at your new home well before your movers' scheduled arrival.
FINAL STEPS
Make sure all your belongings are packed, your old home is clean and ready for the next occupants, and you have all the necessary documents and keys.
Assist you in identifying properties that fit your needs, preferences, and budget.
Guide you through the homebuying process from start to finish, ensuring you understand each step along the way.
Provide detailed market analysis and comparable sales data to help you make informed and competitive offers
Coordinate showings and schedule tours at times that are most convenient for you.
Handle all offer preparation and negotiations on your behalf, working to secure the best price and terms possible..
Connect you with trusted professionals from mortgage lenders and inspectors to attorneys and contractors to ensure a smooth transaction
Keep you informed with regular updates and clear communication from the moment you start searching until you receive your keys.
AMORTIZATION
The process of gradually paying off a loan over time with regular payments
APPRAISAL
An evaluation of a property's value by a licensed appraiser.
BUYER CONCESSIONS
Financial incentives that a seller can offer to a buyer during a real estate transaction.
CLOSING
The final step in the homebuying process where the ownership of a property is transferred from the seller to the buyer
CLOSING COSTS
Fees and expenses incurred during the purchase of a home, including legal fees, title insurance, and inspection fees
COMPARITIVE MARKET ANALYSIS (CMA)
An evaluation of a home’s value based on similar, recently sold homes (called comparables) in the same neighborhood.
CONTINGENT
When the seller of the home has accepted an offer – one that comes with contingencies or a condition that must be met for the sale to go through
A counteroffer serves as a rejection from the seller who feels the buyer's offer was not acceptable COUNTEROFFER
DAYS ON MARKET (DOM)
The number of days from the date on which the property is listed for sale on the local real estate brokers’ multiple listing service (MLS) to the date when the seller has signed a contract for the sale of the property with the buyer.
DOWN PAYMENT
The initial payment made by a buyer toward the purchase price of a home.
EQUITY
The value of a property that exceeds the amount owed on any mortgages or loans secured by the property
ESCALATION CLAUSE
When buyers anticipate multiple offers on a property they are looking to purchase; they can include an escalation clause in the contract that lets them increase their offer by a predetermined amount
ESCROW
The phase of a transaction where both parties have reached an agreement The escrow holder is a third party hired to handle the transaction, including the exchange of money and all associated documents
FIXED-RATE MORTGAGE
A mortgage in which the interest rate stays the same throughout the entire loan term.
FOR SALE BY OWNER (FSBO)
A property that is being sold directly by the owner, without the involvement of a real estate agent or broker.
HOME INSPECTION
A thorough examination of a property's condition by a professional inspector.
A loan used to purchase a property, typically secured by the property itself MORTGAGE
GLOSSARY
PRE-APPROVAL
The process of being approved for a mortgage before actually finding a property to purchase.
PRINCIPAL
The amount of money borrowed through a mortgage, not including interest or other fees
TITLE
Legal ownership of a property.
TITLE SEARCH
An examination of public records to verify the legal ownership of a property
UNDERWRITTING
The process of reviewing a borrower's financial and credit history to determine whether they qualify for a mortgage
VARIABLE-RATE MORTGAGE
A mortgage in which the interest rate can change over time based on market conditions.
ZONING
The laws and regulations that govern how a property can be used, such as for residential or commercial purposes.
A T H O M E
W I T H
RENÉE MEUSE LOVLEY
Renée believes the heart of the home comes alive through delicious food, intentional design, and meaningful moments To her, a beautiful home isn’t just about how it looks - it’s about how it feels, how it welcomes, and how it nurtures. Whether she’s preparing a comforting meal, setting an inviting table, or styling a cozy space, Renée’s goal is to create experiences that bring joy, warmth, and connection. At Home with Renée is a celebration of home in all its forms, from curated décor to homemade recipes, designed to inspire you to cook, create, and cherish the place you call home Discover her recipes and creations online at www.reneelovley.com/athomewithrenee
