Buying a home may seem to be a daunting prospect at first, but if you take it one step at a time, the pieces all fall into place rather easily. If you have any questions while reading or implementing this information, please contact me. I look forward to working with you!

"Closing" refers to the meeting where ownership of the property is legally transferred to the buyer. It is a formal meeting in which most parties involved in the buying/selling process will attend. Closing procedures are usually held at the title company's office or lawyer's office. Your closing officer coordinates the document signing and the collection and disbursement of funds. I will be present at your closing to read the documents on your behalf, answer any questions, or help to resolve any last minute or unexpected details that may come up.

In order for the closing to go smoothly, each party involved should bring the necessary documentation and be prepared to pay any related fees (closing costs). There may be more than one form of acceptable payment for your closing costs, so ask the closing officer which form of payment will be required and to whom it should be made out. Closing costs will generally total an amount equal to 2 to 3 percent of the total loan value, not including down payment and the buyer's escrow account.

Sellers sometimes pay for a portion or all of the closing costs, depending on local market conditions, terms of the purchase contract, and the seller's cash and timing considerations. Any such concessions should be acknowledged in writing. Most lenders will allow a credit from the seller to the buyer for the non-recurring closing costs. However, they usually won't allow a credit that reduces the amount of the buyer's down payment or any of the buyer's recurring costs, such as expenses for fire insurance premiums, PMI, or property taxes.

Step 1 - Analyze Your Needs
Step 2 - Pricing Strategy
Step 3 - Prepare Your Property
Step 4 - Marketing Strategy
Step 5 - When you Receive an Offer
Step 6 - The Post-Contract Process
Step 7 - Closing on Your Home
Step 8 - Post-Close Activity
Step 9 - The Post-Contract Process
Step 10 - Closing on Your Home
Step 11 - Post-Close Activity

• Why Work with Katie
• About Katie
• Interests

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• Sell
• Buy
• Invest

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• What's My Home Worth

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