Buying or selling a home in Tulsa?

Purchasing a home is intimidating for most people, but with a bit of up-front planning, it's not too complicated. I like to furnish buyers with an overview of the whole deal so they'll understand exactly what they can expect. Below are my nine steps to purchasing a home. If you have any questions about any of this information or if you're prepared to get started, you can contact me here or e-mail me at .

Step 1 – Prepare to purchase a home
There are plenty of things you'll want to consider before you start searching for a home. When you start your search, you'll want to put together a checklist of items you need, get a plan of what school districts you'd like to live in, and begin working on your budget. Ensuring your mortgage payment is less than or close to a third of your net monthly income is a good principle to adhere to.

Step 2 – Speak with a real estate agent
This is where Dennis Hall Realty, LLC comes in. I'd be more than happy to set up a time to get together with you and communicate with you about why you want to buy a home and get an idea of your future plans. We'll discuss the mortgage industry, other economic factors that may affect your purchase today or in the future, as well as neighborhoods and schools in the Tulsa area.

I can also help you get started on your loan. I partner with some of Tulsa's best mortgage professionals, so you can rest assured that you're in great hands. They will assist you with figuring out which type of loan is best for you and help you get qualified.

Step 3 – Begin looking for a home
Following our initial meeting, I'll start looking for available houses on the market that are a good fit for you. I'll preview many of the homes and ignore the duds, and then we'll schedule appointments to view the houses when it's convenient for you.

When we tour the houses, I'll show you the positive features, as well as bad ones. And I'll ask you to tell us about things you like and dislike. It's widely common for buyers to update their wish list as we view houses and some things become more crucial than others. If that's the case, I'll go back through the listings another time and narrow it down to the house of your dreams.

Step 4 – Comprehend the market
An agent's understanding of the Tulsa home market is an imperative component in your home search. And I assure you I'm acquainted with all the school districts and neighborhoods, and I can alert you to what areas are "hot" and call for prompt action and others that are "cool" and allow for more examination.

As we tour homes, I'll be sure to tell you if the asking price has room for bargaining or if I believe the home is "priced to sell." When working with an agent, trust your instincts and be sure to ask lots of questions. Any REALTOR will convince you they comprehend the market. If things don't add up, just call me at 9184478000 or e-mail me at , and I'd be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. My knowledge of the market will keep you a step ahead through the entire deal.

Step 5 – Find your dream home
I'm certain we'll find the house of your dreams in the Tulsa area. When we do, I'll meticulously create your purchase offer. The offer will be tailored exactly to your needs and the home, including many contingencies, such as getting financing, completing the home inspection, and a clear title.

Upon sending in your offer, you'll want to present "earnest money." This is a cash deposit submitted to the seller to secure an offer to buy the property and is most often put towards the closing costs. If your offer is accepted by the seller, we should close about 30 to 60 days afterward. This allows plenty of time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate the deal
A lot of deals don't close on the initial offer, and it's extremely common to receive a counter offer. But don't let this discourage you. We'll figure out whether or not to consent to the counter offer, present our own counter offer, or decline the seller's offer and move on.

Market conditions determine how aggressively we negotiate the contract. In addition, we'll work within your financing budget. And at the end of the day, we'll create a contract that works well for you.

Step 7 – Secure financing
Upon finishing the contract, you'll start working with your mortgage lender to close the loan. If you're already pre-qualified, this won't be a long process at all, but you'll need to keep in close contact with your mortgage lender. And I'll handle all the property information your mortgage lender needs to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) outlining closing costs from your lender within three days of receiving your loan application. The estimate is formed from the loan amount. RESPA requirements dictate that it has to contain all closing costs and fall within a close range of accuracy, and I'll analyze the estimate and let you know if everything looks all right.

Then we'll close on your home. This should take place at a title company or escrow office and will most likely be a smooth and hassle-free event.

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! It's time to move into your new home. Enjoy it. And if you need anything or have any questions, just call me at 9184478000 or e-mail me at .