Pre-Search Preparation:

Consult your local lender or a mortgage consultant.

Total all of your existing expenses including an estimated monthly mortgage expense. Budget in advance so you know your monthly comfort level.

Property Search:

Create an educational and efficient search. Try minimizing unnecessary property visits by asking questions in advance and understanding what you need. Sign up for your Buyer Philosophy workbook and Create your Elite 8!

Offer to Purchase:

Speak with a REF Agent to discuss your offer strategy. A pre-approval letter and offer deposit made payable to the seller's listing agency is required.

REF Realty will work with you and handle all negotiations.

Contracts & Contingencies:

Required to have all home inspections complete within 7-10 days from an accepted offer.  Consult a REF agent to discuss further. Provided is a link to understand more of the importance of a home inspection see:  www.mass.gov/dpl/hi.  Type in “home inspectors” in the Search Bar and select "Home Inspectors Facts for Consumers".

The P&S Agreement is reviewed and signed usually within 10-14 days from the accepted offer and after your home inspection.  Typically, an additional deposit of 5% is paid by the Buyer to the Seller’s agent and held in an escrow account until closing.  The Seller issues the 1st draft of the P&S.  We strongly advise you to hire an attorney to represent all Purchase and Sale aspects.

Many lenders need an average of 30 days to provide a commitment to finance. Consult your mortgage advisor.

Negotiated at the offer phase, but typically 30-45 days from the date of an accepted offer.  Again, we advise you to hire an attorney to represent you at your closing.

Prior to Closing:

For your own protection and to insure your property and it’s contents.  This is a requirement by your lender prior to closing, but is not required if purchasing a condominium.

Notify utility companies, phone, mail, etc of your move.

A closing document that provides a list of settlement funds to be disbursed or collected as a result of the transaction.  Request an advance copy from your lender to review prior to closing.  If applicable, make sure your REF Refund is posted!

Organize a contact list of all parties involved in the transaction (seller’s attorney, lender, lender’s attorney, etc).

Don’t forget to schedule a moving company.

Closing Day:

Funds paid at closing are paid in the form of a bank check from your financial institution.  Bring your check book for any smaller miscellaneous charges.

Always request a copy of the signed documents. You will receive a closing package from the closing attorney as well.