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Information For Buyers

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Buyers

Buying a property is more than touring houses! Buyer education, advocacy, and coaching are hallmarks of my service.

  • First-time, move-up, downsize, and "right-size" buyers.
  • Single-family homes and condominiums.
  • Vacant land and new construction.
  • Investment properties, vacation homes, and lake houses.

The Ultimate First-Time Homebuyer's Guide

Buying your first home is one of the most exciting milestones of your life, but it can feel overwhelming without the right support. This step-by-step guide, created with your needs in mind, will simplify the process, reduce stress, and ensure you enjoy the journey to homeownership.

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Step 1: Conduct Research & Understand Market Conditions

Begin by identifying what type of home fits your needs—condo, townhome, or single-family home—and pinpoint your ideal neighborhoods. Explore features you love, take note of those you dislike, and keep an eye on market trends, including price fluctuations and inventory availability.

Understanding market conditions is crucial as the real estate market can fluctuate between buyer-friendly and seller-friendly environments. With regular updates and insights from your agent, you’ll be prepared to make informed decisions.

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Step 2: Establish Your Budget

Before speaking with a lender, take control of your finances. Create a detailed household budget, factoring in potential new expenses like property taxes, HOA fees, and utility bills. This approach helps you determine a monthly payment you’re comfortable with—one that aligns with your long-term financial goals.

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Step 3: Get Prequalified for a Mortgage

A prequalification letter not only provides clarity on your buying power but also strengthens your offer in the eyes of sellers. Meet with a mortgage lender early in the process to address potential issues like insufficient credit, recent job changes, or past financial setbacks. This step puts you in a better bargaining position, especially in competitive markets.

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Step 4: Choose an Experienced Real Estate Agent

Having an experienced real estate agent as you coach and leader is invaluable. Working together, I will provide access to the MLS, off-market listings, and Compass Exclusive properties. I will help you evaluate homes that fit your criteria as well as guide you through contracts, contingencies, and negotiations. Lastly, managing deadlines to ensure a smooth closing is my job. My goal is to be your advocate, delivering expert guidance and personalized service so you can navigate the home-buying process with confidence.

  • Buying a property is more than touring houses! Buyer education, advocacy, and coaching are hallmarks of our service.
  • First-time, move-up, downsize, and "right-size" buyers
  • Single-family homes and condominiums
  • Vacant land and new construction
  • Investment properties, vacation homes, and lake houses

Passion & Expertise

My goal is to provide you with the most personalized service possible, meticulously designed to help you navigate the process of buying your dream home. I am dedicated to understanding your unique needs and preferences, ensuring that every step of the journey is tailored to achieve your ultimate home-buying aspirations.

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Step 5: View & Evaluate Properties

Once you’ve narrowed down your search, I’ll schedule showings of homes that align with your needs and budget. During each visit, take detailed notes and thoroughly inspect the property by testing fixtures, checking doors and windows, and running faucets.

Don’t forget to evaluate the neighborhood. Consider proximity to schools, grocery stores, and other essentials, as well as parking, traffic, and overall convenience.

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Step 6: Make a Strong Offer

When you’ve found the perfect home, I’ll help you craft a competitive offer based on comparable market data. Whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market, my negotiation expertise ensures you’ll get the best deal possible. If a counteroffer arises, I’ll guide you through the process to reach an agreement.

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Step 7: Schedule a Home Inspection

Most offers are contingent on a professional home inspection. This step ensures the property is free of major structural issues or expensive repairs. If the inspection reveals concerns, you’ll have the opportunity to renegotiate terms or withdraw your offer.

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Step 8: Finalize Your Mortgage

Return to your lender to select the mortgage that best fits your financial goals. Options include fixed-rate, adjustable-rate, FHA, and VA loans. I’ll help you weigh the pros and cons of each option, ensuring you feel confident in your decision.

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Step 9: Home Appraisal & Contingencies

Your lender will schedule a home appraisal to verify the property’s value. This step protects you from overpaying and ensures the loan aligns with the home’s worth. During this time, I’ll help you manage all other contingencies, ensuring deadlines are met.

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Step 10: Closing Day

As closing day approaches, I’ll review all necessary documents with you to ensure accuracy. On the big day, I’ll be by your side to help finalize the transaction. After signing the final paperwork, you’ll officially be the proud owner of your dream home.

Comprehensive Support Every Step of the Way

After signing the final paperwork to complete the purchase, you are now the owner of a new house. It may take a few days for your loan to be funded once the paperwork has been returned to the lender, but once that check is delivered to the seller, you’ll be all set to move into the home of your dreams.

  • Total Market Awareness: I’ll explore MLS listings, expired properties, FSBOs (For Sale by Owners), and network with other agents to uncover every possible option.
  • Expert Negotiation: I’ll ensure your interests are protected and your offer stands out in competitive scenarios.
  • Deadline Management: From inspections to financing contingencies, I’ll track every detail so you don’t have to.
  • Closing Guidance: I’ll ensure your closing process is seamless and stress-free.

Congratulations!

With the keys in hand, your homeownership journey begins. Let’s work together to make this process not just successful but also enjoyable. From our first meeting to closing day, I’m here to ensure your first home-buying experience is as smooth and rewarding as possible.

See Why My Clients Love Me

Testimonials

"I've known Mary for several years; first as a colleague and mentor and this past year I hired her as my Realtor. I hired Mary because I know that she gets results. I was very pleased with Mary because she goes the distance for her clients. If you want results from a professional with integrity and knowledge to sell your home or to help you buy a home, then Mary Browning is the Realtor for you."
"I've known Mary for several years; first as a colleague and mentor and this past year I hired her as my Realtor. I hired Mary because I know that she gets results. I was very pleased with Mary because she goes the distance for her clients. If you want results from a professional with integrity and knowledge to sell your home or to help you buy a home, then Mary Browning is the Realtor for you."
Susie J.
"I highly recommend Mary Browning as a top-producing real estate agent with proven results, compassion, and dedication. I have known Mary for over a decade, during which time I have witnessed her remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to her clients and friends. Mary has an exceptional track record in the real estate industry, consistently delivering outstanding results for her clients. Her extensive experience and expertise have made her one of the most sought-after agents in the area. Whether finding the perfect home for a buyer or successfully negotiating a lucrative deal for a seller, Mary always goes above and beyond to exceed expectations. However, what truly sets Mary apart is her compassion and dedication to her clients. She genuinely cares about their needs and takes the time to understand their unique circumstances. This empathy allows her to provide personalized solutions and support throughout the buying or selling process. Mary is not only focused on closing deals; she strives to build long-term relationships based on trust and integrity. In addition to her accomplishments as a real estate agent, I have also had the opportunity to witness Mary's exceptional coaching skills in both athletics and business. Her ability to inspire and motivate others is truly remarkable. Whether coaching a sports team or mentoring colleagues in real estate, Mary has a natural talent for bringing out the best in others. Her guidance and mentorship have helped numerous individuals achieve their goals and reach new heights of success. I cannot recommend Mary enough as a top-producing real estate agent, coach, and, if you are lucky, a trusted friend. Her proven track record, compassionate nature, and dedication to excellence make her an asset to any individual or organization. Mary is the perfect choice if you are looking for someone who will deliver exceptional results and provide unwavering support and guidance."
"I highly recommend Mary Browning as a top-producing real estate agent with proven results, compassion, and dedication. I have known Mary for over a decade, during which time I have witnessed her remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to her clients and friends. Mary has an exceptional track record in the real estate industry, consistently delivering outstanding results for her clients. Her extensive experience and expertise have made her one of the most sought-after agents in the area. Whether finding the perfect home for a buyer or successfully negotiating a lucrative deal for a seller, Mary always goes above and beyond to exceed expectations. However, what truly sets Mary apart is her compassion and dedication to her clients. She genuinely cares about their needs and takes the time to understand their unique circumstances. This empathy allows her to provide personalized solutions and support throughout the buying or selling process. Mary is not only focused on closing deals; she strives to build long-term relationships based on trust and integrity. In addition to her accomplishments as a real estate agent, I have also had the opportunity to witness Mary's exceptional coaching skills in both athletics and business. Her ability to inspire and motivate others is truly remarkable. Whether coaching a sports team or mentoring colleagues in real estate, Mary has a natural talent for bringing out the best in others. Her guidance and mentorship have helped numerous individuals achieve their goals and reach new heights of success. I cannot recommend Mary enough as a top-producing real estate agent, coach, and, if you are lucky, a trusted friend. Her proven track record, compassionate nature, and dedication to excellence make her an asset to any individual or organization. Mary is the perfect choice if you are looking for someone who will deliver exceptional results and provide unwavering support and guidance."
Heather M.
"Mary Browning is warm, incredibly smart, trustworthy, and very fun. She was super positive from start to finish. She and her team are amazing, and I would recommend her services to anyone who needs to sell their home!"
"Mary Browning is warm, incredibly smart, trustworthy, and very fun. She was super positive from start to finish. She and her team are amazing, and I would recommend her services to anyone who needs to sell their home!"
Nancy L.
"Loved working with Mary. She made my first home-buying experience so special! I'd recommend her to all of my family and friends. "
"Loved working with Mary. She made my first home-buying experience so special! I'd recommend her to all of my family and friends. "
Caitlin M.
"Mary was very friendly and always had a positive energy. She was a good communicator and was very attentive to my questions and concerns. The sale of my condo went extremely quickly and for much more money than I anticipated which was great."
"Mary was very friendly and always had a positive energy. She was a good communicator and was very attentive to my questions and concerns. The sale of my condo went extremely quickly and for much more money than I anticipated which was great."
Ryan R.
"A very experienced and professional realtor who guides the client to make the process easier and efficient for better outcomes. "
"A very experienced and professional realtor who guides the client to make the process easier and efficient for better outcomes. "
Bill U.
"Mary worked with me for more than one year. She tirelessly showed me many properties patiently educated me on the realities of buying in a strong seller's market and ultimately helped me buy a great property. I'm very pleased."
"Mary worked with me for more than one year. She tirelessly showed me many properties patiently educated me on the realities of buying in a strong seller's market and ultimately helped me buy a great property. I'm very pleased."
Charles M.
"From the first call to even after taking ownership, I felt taken care of during this very important undertaking. Thank you so much Mary."
"From the first call to even after taking ownership, I felt taken care of during this very important undertaking. Thank you so much Mary."
Kathleen S.
"We turned to Mary in a time of need and she delivered. In such a chaotic and aggressive housing market Mary brought calm and confidence to our strategy and then executed our vision of owning an incredible single-family home. Her knowledge and experience won the day and we couldn't be more thankful!"
"We turned to Mary in a time of need and she delivered. In such a chaotic and aggressive housing market Mary brought calm and confidence to our strategy and then executed our vision of owning an incredible single-family home. Her knowledge and experience won the day and we couldn't be more thankful!"
Alex J.
"Mary is always my go-to agent. She's professional and caring and listens and acts on my needs as a seller. She was extremely helpful on this move as I am suffering from some injuries currently which are leaving me handicapped."
"Mary is always my go-to agent. She's professional and caring and listens and acts on my needs as a seller. She was extremely helpful on this move as I am suffering from some injuries currently which are leaving me handicapped."
Nicole M.

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