Tyler Shelton Buyer Guide

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CLEARVIEW REALTY PARTNERS HOME BUYING GUIDE

Tyler Shelton REALTOR®, Associate Broker, Former Builder Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist Master Certified Negotiation Expert Senior Real Estate Specialist (757) 650-5108 Tyler@HomesByTyler.com www.HomesByTyler.com

The Real Estate Leader

RE/MAX sells more real estate than any other brand in the world

The number one

brokerage on the east coast

RE/MAX is the number one brand in real estate

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RE/MAX

Tyler Shelton’s Story

Why not have a former Builder in your corner?

Tyler Shelton views his role in assisting buyers and sellers as more than a career. To him, it is also a responsibility and an opportunity to make a positive impact on others’ lives. Home buyers and sellers have their money on the line, and Tyler does not take that lightly. He makes sure that his clients have all the pertinent facts, that they understand the legalese contained in their contracts and disclosures, and that they know their options. He never sugar coats the truth and points out the positive and negative aspects when decisions need to be made. No one likes surprises during a real estate transaction, and Tyler ensures that his clients know what to expect during each step of the process.

Tyler is known for his easy-going, friendly attitude, his cooperative nature and his jovial spirit. But when his clients’ interests are at stake, his intense loyalty, tenacity, negotiating skills and problem solving abilities come to the forefront.

Tyler has always had a passion for real estate. While he was in college studying architecture, he worked for a company designing and selling new homes. Later, Tyler started his own retail business, which grew to three locations. Tyler went on to get his business degree, with an emphasis in marketing. His real estate interests continued to grow, however. Eventually, he and a longtime friend ventured into the new construction field. Tyler obtained his Class A builder’s license and they began to build.

Total Career Units Sold: 400+

Total Career Volume: $154M+

Year Licensed: 2006

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TYLER SHELTON
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist, Certified Residential Specialist, Seniors Real Estate Specialist, Master Certified Negotiation Expert

Unique Services for Buyers

• I only work with a small number of great clients at once to ensure a personal touch.

• I preview properties daily on your behalf.

• I use the Yikes Marketing Letter to find off market homes.

• I research bank owned and notice of defaults (if available).

• I will actively door knock communities you like to find you a home.

• I will only show you property that matches what you want.

• I will negotiate aggressively on your behalf.

• I will work with your lender and our affiliates to ensure a smooth transaction and closing.

• I have made arrangement with several vendors to offer you Contractor Pricing on Appliances, Paint, Flooring, Cabinets, Granite and more regardless of when you purchased!

• My response to your questions is guaranteed with a Communication Guarantee.

• If you are unhappy with you home purchase anytime in the first 12 months ask me about my Home Buyer Satisfaction Guarantee.

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TYLER SHELTON

My wife and I purchased and sold our first house through Tyler, it couldn’t have been a more smooth process. Tyler was great from start to finish. We ended up with a house in Su olk that Tyler found for us. He really knows the Hampton Roads area and made sure as first time buyers to show us houses we could a ord and enjoy rather than being “house poor”. When the military made us move he was there throughout the selling process as well, getting us way more money than expected. The next house purchase we make will surely be through Tyler.

Tyler helped me through the whole process coaching and encouraging me. His dedication to providing experienced expertise mentored my decisions. Without being pushy or overbearing, he stayed in contact and even sought out potential homes to consider.

Tyler is a true professional, he is hands on from beginning to end. He truly cares about his clients and always takes the extra steps to get you the best deal with being honest with helping in your decisions. He was always available when any questions would arise. He takes you step by step through the whole process.

Tyler is extremely knowledgeable and completely professional. When purchasing my first family home, I leaned heavily on Tyler’s experience and expertise on everything from market fluctuations to renovation ideas. I recommend him without any reservations whatsoever. He was patient, considerate, and in tune with my requirements. He was also available to answer any questions which was extremely important to me as a first time home buyer. You CANNOT go wrong with Tyler Shelton!

10/10 very knowledgeable, listens, and will hold your hand when needed. Tyler is the best realtor I have ever worked with and I look forward to the possibility of working with him again!

Tyler is an ace realtor. Long-time local and widely knowledgeable of the market. He has a background in contracting and construction that’s a great asset. He works with an awesome set of supporting companies for home and pest inspections or any special needs. He works very hard and gives a considered and straight opinion. He kept us informed of new homes and followed up on steps the whole way through. I will recommend him to everyone I know looking for real estate and could not be more pleased with his service.

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TYLER SHELTON
Testimonials

ALLEGIANCE

Why RE/MAX Allegiance

• Number One Selling RE/MAX Brokerage on the East Coast

• The Most RE/MAX O ces on the East Coast

• Top Producing Professionals

• Over 7,000 families served in 2022

• Innovative Technology & Marketing

• Community-Minded Culture

The Real Estate Professionals

RE/MAX Allegiance was formed in 2003 with the merger of three RE/MAX brokerages, some of which date back to 1978. For 40 years since, we and our Associates have helped hundreds of thousands of families buy, sell and invest in real estate. Today, RE/MAX Allegiance is recognized as the largest RE/MAX brokerage on the east coast and one of the most productive real estate companies in the United States.

We are a full service brokerage specializing in residential sales, commercial sales, leasing and new development projects in the most desirable neighborhoods in Hampton Roads, North Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Our team of top producing real estate professionals has access to innovative technology and marketing that allows them to achieve exceptional results on each client’s behalf.

The experience of our real estate professionals and deep knowledge of the market allow us to deliver the best service throughout all stages of the transaction, ensuring the highest level of client satisfaction.

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RE/MAX
Hampton Roads Coverage

Representation and Relationships

Buyer’s Agent:

A buyer’s agent works solely on behalf of the buyer to promote the interests of the buyer with the utmost good faith, loyalty and fidelity. The agent negotiates on behalf of and acts as an advocate for the buyer. The buyer’s agent must disclose to potential sellers all adverse material facts actually known by the buyer’s agent including the buyer’s financial ability to perform the terms of the transaction and, if a residential property, whether the buyer intends to occupy the property. A separate written buyer agency agreement is required which sets forth the duties and obligations of the broker and the buyer.

Seller’s Agent:

A seller’s agent (or listing agent) works solely on behalf of the seller to promote the interests of the seller with the utmost good faith, loyalty and fidelity. The agent negotiates on behalf of and acts as an advocate for the seller. The seller’s agent must disclose to potential buyers all adverse material facts actually known by the seller’s agent about the property. A separate written seller agency agreement is required which sets forth the duties and obligations of the broker and the seller.

Customer:

A customer is a party to a real estate transaction with whom the broker has no brokerage relationship because such party has not engaged or employed the broker, either as the party’s agent or as the party’s transaction-broker.

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Real Estate License Law Requires That Working Relationships Be Defined and Disclosed RE/MAX ALLEGIANCE

CONGRATULATIONS on your decision to purchase a home

The Home Buying Process

1. Get Pre-Approved 2. View Homes 3. Select Your Forever Home 4. Write An O er & Submit Earnest Money 5. Negotiate Countero ers 6. Title Search & Commitment 7. Obtain A Home Inspection 8. Negotiate Repairs With Seller 9. Complete Loan Process And Order Appraisal 10. Loan Package Submitted To Underwriting 11. Loan Approval 12. Settlement Statement Received 13. Final Walk Through 14. Closing 15. Move In 16. Make It H me

Get Pre-Approved

Meet With a Lender to Get Pre-Approved

It’s vital that you work with a local mortgage lender or loan o cer. Each state has their own rules and guidelines for processing and closing loans. To avoid painful delays and the possibility of losing out on a home you love, choose a local lender. I am pleased to o er the services of lenders right here at our o ce.

Your loan o cer will review your goals and finances to determine what you qualify to buy.

The pre-approval process will help you in the following ways:

• You will know in advance what your payments will be.

• You won’t waste time considering homes you cannot a ord.

• There are many loan options and programs to choose from in today’s market. Your lender will explain the alternatives to help you select the one best suited for you.

• Sellers do not accept o ers without a pre-approval letter attached.

• You’ll have an estimate of your closing costs and we will explain them to you in detail.

• You’ll have peace of mind.

Best Piece of Advice:

Take the pre-approval one step further and get a full loan approval. This is the best approach.

Your Mortgage Pre-Approval Checklist

Copies of Your ID

Copies of Your Social Security Card

Pay Stubs

Tax Returns and W-2s or 1099s

Bank Statements

Retirement Account Statements

Investment Account Statements

Proof of Rent Payment and/or a Reference from Your Landlord

Mortgage Statements*

Property Tax Bills*

*If you currently have a mortgage

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THE HOME BUYING PROCESS

How to Stay Approved

DO’s

During the Loan Process:

• DO stay current on your payments. Even if you are selling your current home, make sure you’re still paying your mortgage on time; one late notice may cost you. The same goes for car payments, credit cards, student loans, and any other debt.

• DO continue to use your credit as normal. Changing your pattern may raise a red flag, causing your credit score to go down. When in doubt, ask your mortgage broker for guidance.

• DO keep copies of all important financial documents: check stubs, W-2’s, tax returns, bank and investment account statements, rental agreements, etc. If asked to provide any of this info, you’ll be ready!

• DO respond promptly and provide your lender the documents they need to process your loan.

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THE HOME BUYING
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DON’Ts During the Loan Process:

• DON’T close credit card accounts. Keeping accounts open after you have paid them o lowers your debtcredit ratio. If you close a credit card account, it may appear that your debt ratio has gone up. Your lender can advise you on this.

• DON’T apply for new credit or give your personal information to anyone else who might run your credit report. Multiple credit inquiries may hurt your score.

• DON’T make career moves. Your mortgage lender must verify your employment, so it’s crucial to maintain your employment status.

• DON’T make large deposits into your bank account unless 100% necessary. If you must, save the documentation showing where the funds came from.

• DON’T make any major purchases such as a new car, boat, furniture or appliances until after your loan has closed.

• DON’T file for bankruptcy or divorce.

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THE HOME BUYING PROCESS

Home Warranties

Home Warranty - Added Protection

A home warranty can give you peace of mind when buying a previously owned home. It is possible to negotiate for a warranty when you make an o er on a home (unless you are in a fierce competition) or you can purchase a basic for yourself for approximately $400. Some components require an additional insurance rider.

Here are some examples of what could be covered:

Systems

Covered:

• Appliances

• Electrical

• Roof Leaks

• Gas Fireplace

• Hottub

• Septic Tank

• Well Pump

• Heating System

• Ductwork

• Plumbing System

• Water Heater

• Sump Pump

• Exhaust Fans

• Central A/C

Home Warranty:

• Protect yourself against costly repairs and breakdowns due to normal wear and tear.

• Peace of Mind. You can relax, knowing when a covered item breaks down help is just a phone call away.

• Renewable and Transferable. The protection plan can be renewed and it stays with the property.

• Protect Your Wallet. For a small service fee, you will receive up to 14 months of protection from sudden, unexpected failures of your mechanical systems

• Access. You have access to the best contractors available, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

• Homeowners’ Insurance. You may not know it, but your homeowners’ policy does not cover your mechanical systems and appliances. Home warranties supplement your insurance in this way.

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THE HOME
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Home Search Process

I will:

• Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each home in relation to your specific needs and the value in the market

• Keep you informed as the market changes. Communicate with your lender

• Check with fellow brokers and in the MLS database for new listings that meet your criteria

• Keep you up-to-date on changing financial conditions that may a ect the housing market

• Be available to answer your questions

• Discuss market trends and values relative to properties that may be of interest to you. Show you new construction homes as well as pre-owned homes if you desire

As a licensed Realtor, I can show you any property that is made available for sale with a cooperation agreement. If you should see an ad in the newspaper, a sign in a yard, a listing on Zillow or any other website or hear of a possible property from a co-worker, call me and I will get all the information possible for you. If you want to view the home, I’d be happy to show it to you!

When it’s time to write the o er, I will:

• Contact the listing agent to see if there are any other o ers or circumstances to be aware of

• Research comparable sales

You will:

• Get an updated pre-approval letter

• Have funds available to write a check for earnest money

You may want to:

• Drive the neighborhood

• Check out local amenities

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Viewing Homes

After our initial consultation I will have a good idea of what your wants, needs, price range, and desired locations are. I will create a custom search for you that will update you automatically via email when any home meeting your criteria comes on the market or has a price change.

Next, we will schedule appointments to view the homes that are best for you. Whenever possible, I will make sure that you have a copy of the MLS information, flyer or other marketing material on the home.

Most often, the homeowner will be absent during showings, but should they be present, we will proceed politely and not engage in negotiations with the home owner. It is possible that there will be other buyers waiting to see the same home. We will wait patiently in line and I encourage you to keep your interest and motivation to yourself.

When a home appeals to you we will have a detailed discussion and I will take notes of things that will be relevant to writing a strong o er. I will point out any damage or repair items that may cause an issue.

Don’t be surprised if the first home you see is the perfect one for you, and don’t be discouraged if none of those you visit the first day are what you want. I am committed to finding the house that you will call home, and I will work diligently until you find it. Usually, we will be able to find the home of your dreams rather quickly from a selection of homes that best fit the desires you expressed.

The limits of seeing homes are:

• Lock box hours

• Builder hours

• Coordinating schedules

Pets are not allowed to attend showings.

• Seller availability

• Hours of notice and availability

• And sometimes tenants

For Sale By Owner Home Search

Can you represent me in a For Sale By Owner situation?

A homeowner trying to sell their home on their own is usually doing so in the hope of saving some money by not paying a listing commission.

Like any other transaction I can help you:

• negotiate the terms of an o er

• order a title commitment

• obtain all HOA covenants, meeting minutes and financials

• arrange for inspection(s) and negotiate repairs

• review settlement statement

• coordinate closing

In most cases, a homeowner selling their home without the help of a listing agent will work with a buyers agent if the agent brings them a buyer.

If you should see a home “For Sale By Owner” and want the advantages of my services, please allow me to contact the homeowner and set the showing appointment.

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THE HOME BUYING PROCESS

New Construction Home Search

Why Should I Use an Agent To Purchase a Home from a Builder?

The advantages of having me help you purchase a new home are the same as those for purchasing a resale home. I can provide you with valuable insight into the new construction industry, help you find the right home and the right home builder, and negotiate the details based on the quality and amenities of the property and availability in the market.

The builder has a professional real estate representative who watches out for his or her best interests, and you need and deserve the same expert representation watching out for yours.

Buying a new home is a little more di cult and timeconsuming than buying a resale home. I can guide you through this process. Having spent years working with builders, RE/MAX Allegiance has a rapport with local builders.

It is very important that your interests be professionally represented when you are entering into a contract for a semi-custom or a build-to-suit home.

These transactions are complex and the contract details must be exactly in order to protect you and to ensure that you get exactly the home you want!

Make sure the builder knows you’re working with a real estate professional.

Many builders will require that you give up your right to representation if you visit their model homes without an agent on the first visit. Therefore, please call me if you would like to look at some model homes, so you are given the representation you deserve! The builder will pay the buyer’s agent’s fee just like the seller pays in other real estate transactions.

If you happen to be out driving and see a model home that you want to check out, give them a copy of my business card and fill out their “registration” form with your name and mine. Call me right away and tell me if their homes interest you so we can discuss the benefits of that particular builder and community.

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THE HOME BUYING
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Write an O er

Once you find a home you’re interested in purchasing, it is time to write the o er.

You will…

• Get a current letter of pre-approval from your lender

• Have funds available to write a check for earnest money

• Check out crime and school statistics online

• Drive around the neighborhood and parks to get a feel for the area

• Visit the local grocery store

• Check out and enjoy the local amenities

I will…

• Call the listing agent

• Pull comparable sales

• Write the o er

• Negotiate the price

• Collect your earnest money

• Handle any contingencies

Negotiating

• I will represent you to the sellers’ agent. Do not contact the seller directly

• How aggressive the o er should be depends on the supply and demand in the market. We will discuss the best o er for the property you find

• The details of what price to o er, whether to ask the seller to pay closing costs and how much, whether to ask for a home warranty, any other date considerations, contingencies or inclusions, we will discuss at the time of the o er to get you the best deal possible

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After Your O er is Accepted

The following is an example of a four week closing timeline after acceptance of your o er. Your lender will let us know what is the right amount of time for closing.

First Week

• Earnest-money check is deposited

• Submit loan application

• Arrange for property inspections

Second Week

• Attend property inspections

• Make repair requests to seller

• Confirm that all information requested by the mortgage company has been submitted

• Review title commitment

• Review any home owners association documents

Third Week

• Confirm that repairs have been completed

• Promptly deliver any additional information your lender requests

• Appraisal is complete (could be in week 4)

• Arrange for mover

Fourth Week

• Walk through home to verify completed repairs

• Contact title company for wiring instructions

• Arrange for settlement and signing of papers

• Arrange for transfer of utilities

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Home Inspection

Home Inspections and Why You Should Obtain One

Home inspections are a routine part of nearly every residential purchase, whether a resale or a new-construction home.

It’s important to make sure you know exactly what you’re buying. A thorough home inspection greatly reduces the possibility of unpleasant surprises later. Having the property inspected is the buyer’s right and responsibility. The cost varies depending on the size and features of the property.

RE/MAX Allegiance recommends the following minimum standards when choosing an inspector:

• Membership in ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) and adherence to its Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics

• Errors & Omissions Insurance

• Written report at the time of inspection

Your inspection report should include a walk through of the following:

• Foundations, basements and structures

• Basement floor and walls, proper drainage and ventilation, evidence of water seepage

• Exterior siding, windows, and doors

• Porches, patios, decks and balconies

• Roof type, material and condition, including gutters and downspouts.

• Interior plumbing system

• Hot-and-cold water system, the waste system and sewage disposal, water pressure and flow, and hotwater equipment

• Electrical system including type of service, number of circuits, type of protection, outlet grounding and the load balance

• Central heating system - energy source, type of cooling equipment,

capacity, and distribution

• Interior walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors

• Stairways, cabinets, and countertops.

• Attic, including structure, insulation, and ventilation

• Fireplace - chimney, damper, and masonry, and all functionality and components of a gas insert

• Garage - doors, walls, floor, opener

• Built-in appliances; dishwasher, range, microwave, refrigerator and washer and dryer, if included

• Ground slope away from foundation, condition of walks, steps, and driveway

• Bulkhead Inspection

• Chimney Inspection

• Flood Map Inspection

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THE HOME BUYING PROCESS

Your home inspector may recommend a more detailed examination of the roof, furnace or foundation, by a licensed contractor.

You might question the necessity of an inspection on a newly built home. However, realize that even though city inspectors have passed certain phases of the construction process according to building code and the home has received a certificate of occupancy, there could be numerous small items that you’ll discover later that you wish someone had pointed out to you. There is also the possibility that the city inspector missed something.

Inspections for Di erent Circumstances

Standard Home Inspection $400-$600

Additionally:

• Possibly hire a structural engineer $400

• Well Inspection $300 per hour

• Flood Zone Inspection $400 - $550

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THE HOME BUYING PROCESS

Title Insurance

What Is Title Insurance?

A Title Insurance Policy is a guarantee by a title company that a thorough investigation of the title to the property has been conducted and that you have been notified of any outstanding claims to the property. The title insurance company reports any defects in the title in the form of a Title Commitment so that these matters can be corrected. It is important that you know of all claims on the property and have them resolved and declared removed prior to you taking title to the property.

The Title Commitment will carefully detail what items of encumbrance are not covered by the policy. You can either get these items resolved or bow out of the transaction.

Title insurance covers matters that occurred before the policy’s e ective date but were discovered later. Your policy will detail what is covered, what is not covered, and the e ective date.

Title insurance is issued by the title company when they are certain the property is free from all liens, encumbrances, interests, etc., and the insurance guarantees such. This is so the title can be legally transferred to the buyer to be used as security for the lender’s funds. This is why title insurance is required by the lender. Your lender has an interest in knowing that you and the lender are the only parties with claims to the property.

The title insurance company thoroughly searches the public records to uncover any unpaid taxes, mortgages, judgments against previous owners, easements, and other court actions or recorded documents that can a ect title to the real estate. The insurance also provides protection against any defect in the public record such as forgery, similar names, error in the records, etc., and protest against any undiscovered or unrecorded claims that may arise in the future.

When title insurance is issued, the title-insurance company accepts the responsibility for any and all claims on the property prior to your purchase if they do not find the claim or call it to your attention prior to your purchase of the property. That responsibility includes defending your title in court, if necessary (at their expense), or bearing the cost of settling the claim (if it proves valid) in order to perfect your title and keep you in possession of your property.

Unlike other forms of insurance, the original premium is your only cost as long as you or your heirs own the property. There are no annual payments required to keep your Owner’s Title Policy in force.

Title insurance protects you twice—it notifies you of claims against the property and insures you against any future claims on hidden items.

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THE HOME BUYING PROCESS

Why Title Insurance Is So Important!

To understand why a title search is so important, you must understand the nature of real estate. Real estate has always been considered a person’s most valuable possession. It is such a basic form of wealth that many special laws have been enacted to protect ownership of land and the buildings that stand on the land. The owner who is selling the property has extremely strong rights, as do his/her family and heirs. Also, there may be others who have “rights” in the property you are going to buy. These may be governmental bodies, contractors, or any other individuals who have perfectly proper unpaid claims against the property.

Unscrupulous owners may have taken out a second mortgage on the home prior to closing.

Anyone who has such a claim in the property you are buying is, in a sense, a partowner. The property may be sold to you without the knowledge of other parties who have claims against the property. Without a title check conducted by the title-insurance company, you know nothing about such claims at the time you buy. All such claims remain attached to the real estate you are purchasing and not to the previous owners. The title company will notify you of all liens, encumbrances, and interests in the property so that these can be resolved by the current owners prior to the sale. Proof of a “good” title—a title free of any liens, encumbrances, or interests—is important because otherwise you are liable for the claims.

Title-insurance policies are standard. Owner’s policies usually do not cover one or more of the following matters (often referred to as “Standard Exceptions”), unless an additional premium is paid and/or extra investigative work or a survey is done and the necessary evidence is furnished to the title company. When the evidence is furnished and the insurance coverage is given, this is frequently referred to as “Extended Coverage.” The Standard Exceptions are:

• Claims of people who turn out to be living in the house (such as prior owner’s tenants or someone living without your knowledge on your property) if their presence there isn’t a matter of public record.

• Boundary-line disputes.

• Easements or claims of easements not shown by public records.

• Unrecorded mechanic’s liens (claims against the property by unpaid homeimprovement contractors).

• Taxes or special assessments left o the public record.

Other important exclusions from coverage include zoning, environmental protection laws, matters arising after the e ective date of the policy, and matters created, su ered, or assumed by the insured.

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THE HOME BUYING PROCESS

All the Costs

Do I pay my Realtor?

• Only a flat fee commission will be paid to RE/MAX Allegiance at the time of closing

How Does my Realtor Get Paid:

• Listing Brokerage Firm

• Builder - New construction

• Home Owner - For Sale By Owner

Right Away

• Earnest Money – minimum of $1000 typically

• Earnest money is applied toward purchase at closing.

At Inspection

• There can be several – pay at the time of service

Appraisal

• The appraisal will be a part of closing costs paid at closing

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THE HOME BUYING PROCESS

Who Pays for What at Closing?

The seller usually pays for the following:

• The commissions to both seller’s and buyer’s agents in most transactions

• Half of the Title Closing Fee. (except for VA loans, where the seller pays 100%) This is determined in the purchase agreement

• Recording fees to clear all documents of record against the seller

• Tax pro-ration for the time of seller ownership. This is for any unpaid taxes at the time of transfer of title

• Any unpaid homeowner-association dues and assessments according to the contract

The buyer usually pays for the following:

• Lender’s title-policy premium

• Real Estate Closing Fee (unless you are a veteran and getting a VA loan; then the seller pays 100%)

• Recording charges for all documents in buyers’ names

• All new loan charges (except those required of the seller by the lender)

• Interest on a new loan from date of funding to 30 days prior to first payment date

• Assumption/change-of-records fees for takeover of existing loan. (Assumptions are rare)

• Appraisal

• Improvement Location Certificate (if required or at buyer’s discretion).

• Hazard insurance premium for the first year. Reserve account for taxes and insurance

• Your lender will provide you with a settlement statement that shows exactly what you will owe 3 days prior to closing

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THE HOME
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BUYING

Access to Property & Walk-Through

You will have opportunities to make appointments to revisit the home for inspections.

We will do a walk-through a week or so prior to close to check on the status of any required repairs.

The final walk-though will be shortly before closing to ensure that the condition of the property is as you contracted to purchase with no damage or surprises.

For a Successful Closing

Walk-through prior to closing to make sure the property is in the condition agreed upon in the contract. Review the Settlement Statement with your agent and or lender prior to closing.

Bring all monies to closing in the form of good funds (cashier’s check or wire).

Bring

current ID

All purchasers must be available to sign or someone must have a Power of Attorney to sign for them. Let your agent know in advance if this is the case. A new Power of Attorney may be required.

It is possible to close on a property even if you cannot be in town on the day of closing. Make sure your agent knows if any of the buyers will be out of town on the day of closing so that documents can be prepared in advance.

Your agent or another representative of the brokerage will attend the closing with you.

Once the title documents are executed by both parties and the loan package is signed (if it is not a cash purchase) and the wire arrives from the lender, you’ll receive keys.

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Moving In

One month before your move:

Arrange for moving your furniture and personal belongings either by hiring a moving company or renting a truck. Get estimates from several moving companies or truck-rental companies and be sure to obtain a hand truck (appliance dolly) if you’re moving yourself.

Gather moving supplies: boxes, tape, rope, and anything else you might need.

Plan your travel itinerary and make transportation and lodging reservations in advance if you are driving to your new home. (Leave a copy with a friend or relative.)

Some moving expenses are tax deductible, so you will want to save your moving- expense receipts for tax deductions, including meals, lodging and gasoline or mileage. Record expenses incurred during your house-hunting trips.

Develop a plan for packing, such as packing last the things you use the most.

Use di erent colors of tape for each room.

Notify others of your new address: post o ce, charge accounts, subscriptions, relatives and friends, national and alumni organizations, church, mail order clubs (books, videos, catalogs), firms you have scheduled payments with, and your past employer to make sure that you receive W-2 forms and retirement-account information. Save your old address labels to speed up filling out change-of-address forms for your new address.

Notify federal and state taxing authorities or any governmental agency necessary.

THE HOME BUYING PROCESS

Two weeks before your move:

Notify and get refunds from your present utilities: gas, electric, water, cable, and phone. Arrange for services at your new address. Notify phone company and arrange for service at your new address.

Have your car serviced if you are driving a long distance to your new home.

Recruit people to help you on moving day.

Arrange for someone to take care of your pets and children during the move.

Confirm moving company or rental-truck arrangements.

One day before your move:

Keep moving materials separate so they don’t get packed until you are finished.

Pick up rental truck if you are moving yourself.

Fill up your car with gas and check oil and tires.

THE HOME BUYING PROCESS

Home Buyer Wish List

Use this wish list when considering what features are important for your new home: Important

Maybe Not Important

Home Basics

Asking Price _____________________________________________

Real Estate Taxes _________________________________________

Type of Home: Single Family Townhome Condo Other ___________

Style of Home ____________________________________________

Age of Home _____________________________________________

Neighborhood ____________________________________________

Views ___________________________________________________

Waterfront _______________________________________________

Near Work _______________________________________________

Near Schools _____________________________________________

Freeway Access ___________________________________________

Public Transportation ______________________________________

Near Recreation Areas _____________________________________

Neighborhood Covenants/Restrictions ________________________

Home Specifics

Overall Look/Feel of Home _________________________________

Ready To Move In _________________________________________

Number/Type of Renovation Projects _________________________

Number of Stories _________________________________________

Type of Heat/AC __________________________________________

Energy Conservation Features _______________________________

46
THE HOME BUYING
PROCESS

Green or Environmental Features ____________________________

Garage Size ______________________________________________

Number of Bedrooms ______________________________________

Number of Bathrooms _____________________________________

Closet/Storage Space ______________________________________

Open Floor Plan __________________________________________

Living Room _____________________________________________

Fireplace ________________________________________________

Kitchen __________________________________________________

Master Bedroom Location __________________________________

O

ce/Den/Work Room ____________________________________

Finished Basement ________________________________________

Patio/Deck

Backyard ________________________________________________

Pool ____________________________________________________

Landscaping _____________________________________________

Shed ____________________________________________________

Other ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________

47 Important Maybe
Not Important
THE HOME BUYING PROCESS
4000 Virginia Beach #164 Virginia Beach, VA 23452 MyAllegianceHome.com Tyler Shelton REALTOR®, Associate Broker, Former Builder Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist Master Certified Negotiation Expert Senior Real Estate Specialist (757) 650-5108 Tyler@HomesByTyler.com www.HomesByTyler.com
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