Find Your Dream Home in 7 Steps

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Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
STEPS TO SU C C ESS
For Buying A Home

Buying a home can be one of the most exciting adventures in your life.
It can also be one of the most overwhelming if you try to go at it alone.
You should also have an experienced Realtor® working for you, guiding you and
looking out for your best interests. And the best part is that hiring a Realtor® as a
buyer, it is basically at no cost to you. In most circumstances, the Buyer’s agent is
paid by the Seller from the proceeds of the sale.
Introduction

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
Affiliate Broker
Accredited Realtor and Senior Real Estate Specialist
• Full-time Real Estate Professional since 2014
• Knoxville Board of REALTORS® - Member
• Originally from North Carolina
• Tellico Village Resident for over 3 years
• Loves Boating, Hiking, Reading and History
• Extensive B2B Sales and New Business Development Experience
Peggy Warren
Real Estate Agent
Introduction
A Little About Who I Am
Peggy Warren
Affiliate Broker
Accredited Realtor and Senior Real Estate Specialist
• Full-time Real Estate Professional since 2014
• Knoxville Board of REALTORS® - Member
• Originally from North Carolina
• Tellico Village Resident for over 3 years
• Loves Reading, History, Boating, and Hiking
• Extensive B2B Sales and New Business Development Experience

Buying A Home in 7 Steps
Step 1 - Buying Consultation
Step 2 - Loan Pre-Approval
Step 3 - Searching for a Home
Step 4 - Viewing Homes
Step 5 - Develop a Pricing Strategy
Step 6 - Writing and Negotiating an Offer
Step 7 - Managing the Transaction Through Closing

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
There are 3 types of Agency Relationships between parties in a real estate transaction:
• Seller’s Agent - An agent who represents the Seller
• Buyer’s Agent - An agent who represents the Buyer
• Dual Agency (Limited Agent) - An agent who represents both the Seller and Buyer
When you select Your Realtor to assist you in finding and purchasing a home, they
become your “Buyer’s Agent.” Typically the seller already has an agent representing
them, who is working hard for their best interests, not yours. You too should also be
represented with an agent who will be working on your behalf and looking out for your
best interests. I will help you to find a home, evaluate pricing, negotiate offers, and
guide you throughout the entire transaction to ensure a successful closing.
The greatest part of hiring a Buyer’s Agent is that in most cases there is no cost
to you!
I am compensated for my services only when I successfully close on a home for you.
When a seller lists their home with a Seller’s Agent, a commission amount for the
Seller’s Agent and for the Buyer’s Agent is pre-determined and paid for by the Seller
upon the closing of the sale.
Working for You as Your Buyer’s Agent
Step 1
Buying Consultation

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
Motivation - Why have you decided to buy a home?
Timing - Are you flexible in timing or are we working towards closing before a certain date?
Pricing - What is your price range? Have you begun talking with a mortgage professional?
Decision Making - Will anyone else (family member, financial advisor) be involved in the
transaction?
Location - What areas of town do you prefer, or are you not yet sure?
Home Type - Are you looking for a condominium, townhome, single family residence or land?
Home Size - What size of home are you looking for? How many bedrooms, bathrooms, etc.?
Lot Size - What size of property are you looking for?
Floorplan - What is important to you in the layout of a home?
Architectural Style - Is there any particular style you prefer - rustic, traditional or contemporary?
Amenities - What additional features will you be looking for? (pool, hot tub, clubhouse, golf, etc.)
What Exactly Are You Looking For?
Determine Your Needs
What is Most Important to You?
Step 1
Buying Consultation

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
How Much Can You Afford?
It can be discouraging to find that your salary won't stretch as far as the home you want to own.
However, sacrificing a huge part of your income just to pay the mortgage can very quickly make
home ownership a burden rather than a point of pride. It may be better to buy a modest home
now and look at purchasing your "dream home" in a few years.
A Pre-Approval Adds Strength to Your Offer
Once you have been successfully pre-approved for a mortgage with a local lender, you will
appear to be a stronger buyer to sellers. When I submit an offer, I will include a written letter of
your pre-approval. This demonstrates to the seller that you are indeed a serious and capable
buyer.
Securing a Pre-Approval for Your Home Loan
Step 2
Loan Pre-Approval

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
There are many variables to consider when choosing a mortgage loan. Your income, job
history, and credit rating can determine what programs are available to you. Also other
considerations such as how long you plan to be in the home can also be an important factor.
As a real estate agent, I cannot answer these important mortgage questions, but I will be sure
to help you get to the right mortgage provider to help you with this very important part of the
process. Below is a list of mortgage programs and definitions to be familiar with.
Interest Rate - What are current interest rates? What rates are you being quoted?
Fixed Rate Mortgage - A mortgage where the rate remains the same through the life of the
loan.
Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) - A mortgage where the rate changes based on a financial
index.
Down Payment - What amount do you have for a down payment? How much will you really
need?
Origination Fee - A charge levied by a lender for underwriting a loan. Typically 1% of the loan
amount.
Points - A point equals 1% of a mortgage. Should you pay "discount points" to reduce the
loan's interest rate?
Mortgage Term - 15, 20, 30 year loan terms. What is best for you?
Conventional Mortgage - A fixed-rate, 30-year mortgage that is within the limits set by FNMA
& FDMC.
Jumbo Mortgage - Exceeds the limits set by FNMA & FDMC. Usually has a slightly higher
interest rate.
FHA Mortgage - Usually requires less money down, but has tighter guidelines. Can you
qualify?
Balloon Mortgage - Can be a great option for short term situations, but will you be ready to
pay it off at the end?
Interest-Only Mortgage - This will give you a lower monthly payment, but is it the best route
to go?
Pre-Payment Penalty - If you pay the loan off early, or refinance, will there be a penalty or
fee?
Mortgage Industry Conditions - Any issues with the current mortgage industry that could
affect your financing?
What Type of Loan is Best?
Step 2
Loan Pre-Approval

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
Just like any major purchase, it is usually worthwhile to shop around
for the best deal. It is also important to choose a local lender with
long term experience.
Obtaining A Mortgage Lender
Step 2
Loan Pre-Approval
What is your debt-to-income ratio?
This is something that lenders take very seriously. Your overall debt
should not be more than 40% of your income, and your housing debt
should not be more than 32%. What 32% of your income will buy
depends on where you want to live. In rural or downtrodden areas for
example, it can buy a very comfortable residence and ample
acreage. In highly sought-after urban areas however, it may not even
buy a 400 square foot bachelor suite.

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
• Do NOT change jobs, become self-employed or quit your current job!
• Do NOT buy a car, truck, boat or RV!
• Do NOT use your credit cards excessively or miss payments!
• Do NOT transfer balances or open new credit cards!
• Do NOT pay off any credit cards or other revolving debts!
• Do NOT spend money set aside for closing costs!
• Do NOT withhold debts or liabilities from your loan application!
• Do NOT open new credit accounts to buy new furniture, appliances, etc.!
• Do NOT make any inquiries into your credit!
• Do NOT make large deposits or withdrawals from your bank accounts!
• Do NOT change banking accounts!
• Do NOT co-sign any loans for anyone!
Inquire with your lender before considering any of the above.
Until You Close on a Mortgage Loan...
Step 2
Loan Pre-Approval

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
As I begin my search I will utilize my company's’ many resources and strong network of
information to seek out the best opportunities and find the home that best suits your
needs.
• REALTOR® Listings / Multiple Listing Service: The most up-to-date home
information resource!
• New Home Construction Developments
• “Pocket” Listings
My Home Searching Resources
Step 3
Searching for a Home
The Value of the Multiple Listing Service
As a member of the Board of REALTORS®, I have access to the Multiple Listing Service
(MLS).
The MLS is an extensive database that contains information on all listed homes in the area.
When sellers decide to list their home with an agent, their agent posts all the information for
that home into the MLS database. All relevant information on a home is available such as
location, size, price, layout, features and photos. As your buyer’s agent I can enter desired
information based on your search criteria and the MLS will analyze the database and list all
available homes that match your needs.

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
Once I can narrow down your search criteria such as location, city,
neighborhoods, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, overall square
footage, etc., I can then set up an automated search for you on our
MLS. Whenever a new property becomes available you will receive an
email update and will know about it before most other potential buyers.
You’ll also receive an update on price reductions as well. No more
missing out on great buys!
Automated “Hot Sheet” Emails
Step 3

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
Internet 37%
Step 3
Over 90% of home buyers use the internet as a tool when
searching for a new home!
Now more than ever people are accustomed to using the benefits of
technology to better gather information. Many home buyers start with
surfing the web, where you can easily and quickly view pricing, details
and photos of many homes right from your living room. It is a quick
way to educate yourself on the local real estate market. On my
website you can also save your favorites to view later and keep track
of the homes you want to go see.
My website allows you to easily search in many different ways:
• Search by city, community or subdivision
• Search by price range
• Search by school district
• Search by single-family, townhome or condo
• Search bank foreclosures and short sales
Search for Homes on www.tellicovillageappeal.com

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
Short Sales and Bank Foreclosures
Step 3
A short sale is a property where the seller owes more to the bank than what the
property is worth. For example the home may only be worth $300,000 but the seller
owes $350,000. So how do they sell the home? They will need to get special
permission form the bank (third party approval) to sell the home for less than what
is owed. For a buyer It can be discouraging to wait for this lengthy process. Often a
short sale can take months to obtain the approval from the bank, especially if there
are multiple mortgages or additional liens on the property. If you are trying to
coordinate a move based on your current home selling or lease ending, this can be
a very difficult process to go through.
A bank owned or foreclosure property is a property where the owner failed to
make the mortgage payments, and the bank completed a foreclosure process and
is now the owner of the home. Banks are not in the business of owning homes so
they typically will price the home low to get it sold quickly. But buyer beware, bank
owned homes play by different rules. These homes are sold “as-is” with no
warranties on the condition of the home. Additionally bank owned sales are often
sold with limited Title Insurance coverage.

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
Your role and participation in this stage is obviously crucial to my success. You
may even find or preview homes on your own (Open Houses) but it is very
important to keep me notified and included in the process so I can better assist you
to be sure your best interests are are fully met.
Determine Neighborhoods Prior to Viewing - I can do an area tour to examine &
discuss potential neighborhoods. I encourage you to spend some time driving
through desired areas on your own to get the feel of different locations.
Clearly Know Your Criteria - Think about what is the right fit for you. We select
homes together based on the criteria you give me. We may drive by many other
homes on our property tour that may look interesting from the exterior. If it is not
on my list, it is most likely because it was priced too high, home size is too small,
did not have enough bedrooms, etc. It is best to stay focused on the homes that do
meet your needs.
Immediately call me if you find a home - In a newspaper or magazine ad, driving
by a “For Sale By Owner" sign, or visiting an open house.
When approached by other REALTORS® - They will appreciate you letting them
know you are working with another REALTOR®.
Narrowing Your Search
Step 4
Viewing Homes

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
Now the fun part begins, time to go view some homes. Now that we know what your
price range is, and what your wants and needs are, I can schedule to see the homes
you are most interested in.
Be Mindful of the Appointments Made - It takes a great deal of time to set up a
smooth, productive property viewing tour. Please do not be late, and we must stay
on track with the timing of all the homes. Many of the homes we will be viewing are
primary residences and families must make plans to accommodate our visit.
Comfortable Shoes - Most homes will ask us to remove our shoes, so wear easy
slip-on/off shoes.
Eat Prior to Tour - You will feel much more alert & productive if you simply eat
before our tour.
Take Notes - Be sure to take descriptive notes on each home - good, bad, etc. After
viewing many homes, they all seem to blend together when trying to think back.
Share these notes with me, it will help me to better know what you like and do not
like. If you have questions on a property, write them down so I can work on getting
answers from the seller's agent quickly.
Scheduling Viewing Tours
Step 4
Viewing Homes

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
As a member of the Board of REALTORS® I have access to the Multiple Listing
Service (MLS). With the MLS I can prepare a report that analyzes values of properties
comparable to the one you want.
I can also gather background information on the desired property such as how long it
has been on the market, pricing changes, or if it has gone through a previous listing
period. Using this valuable information, I can assist you in determining a realistic, yet
attractive offer price for the desired home.
How Does the Seller’s Asking Price Compare to Recent Market Activity?
Comparing the Seller’s Pricing to Recent Sold Homes
Step 5
Develop a Pricing Strategy
4 Bedrooms, 5
Bathrooms
3450 Square Feet
Asking Price: $455,000
3 Bedrooms, 4
Bathrooms
3230 Square Feet
Sold for: $432,000
6 Bedrooms, 4
Bathrooms
4050 Square Feet
Sold for: $445,000
4 Bedrooms, 5
Bathrooms
3200 Square Feet
Sold for: $437,000

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
Using a Comparative Market Analysis as a Guide
A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is the strongest tool I use when estimating the
potential market value for a home. As a member of the Board of REALTORS® with
access to the Multiple Listing Service, I can prepare a report that analyzes comparable
homes in your area. Using this valuable information, I can assist you in determining an
attractive, yet realistic offer price for the home.
A Comparative Market Analysis highlights similar homes in your area that are:
Active Listings - Homes that are currently available for sale. I can see what
comparable asking prices are, but remember these homes have not yet received an
acceptable offer.
Under Contract - Homes that have received and accepted an offer
and give a good indication of realistic pricing.
Sold - Looking at the prices paid for recently sold
homes provides the best foundation in
determining a home's most accurate market
value. Once adjustments are made for square
footage and features, I can make a qualified
recommendation for the offer price on the home.
Expired - Homes that have gone through the
duration of a listing period, but failed to sell.
Many factors could be responsible such as lack
of marketing or the home’s condition, but most
often it is simply because the home was priced
too high.
Step 5
Develop a Pricing Strategy

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
I will write an offer for your desired home in the form of a Purchase and Sale Agreement (RF401) - a
Tennessee State approved form that is used to present an offer. The RF401-Purchase Sells Agreement is a 9
page contract with many details to carefully fill in. Each section should be thoroughly read and reviewed
before any decisions are made. All accepted terms of the RF401-Purhase Sells Agreement must be carried
through the life of the contract. The signed, accepted Purchase Sells Agreement (with all addenda &
counteroffers) is a LEGALLY BINDING CONTRACT.
Below are some of the items that we will need to pay close attention to:
Purchase Price - You want a good buy, but your offer must also be attractive to the Seller.
Included Items - What is included - Refrigerator, Washer & Dryer, Hot Tub, Furniture, Artwork, etc.?
Excluded Items - What is excluded - Refrigerator, Washer & Dryer, Hot Tub, Furniture, Artwork, etc.?
Water Rights - Do they apply? We may need to employ the services of a Water Lawyer.
Earnest Money - This is the initial deposit. The importance of this item is often overlooked.
Method of Payment - Will this be a cash sale, traditional mortgage or seller financing? How much down
payment?
Special Assessments - Are there any outstanding or upcoming assessments? Who pays, Buyer or Seller?
Possession - When does the property legally change ownership? (You receive keys and move in)
Seller Disclosures - What information about the home should you be asking for?
Due Diligence Condition - What "outs" will you have?
Appraisal Condition - Will the sale be contingent on the home's appraisal amount?
Financing Condition - Will the sale be contingent on you securing financing?
Additional Earnest Money - Will you be offering an additional deposit to your earnest money?
Additional Addenda - Are there any additional terms or addenda to consider?
Home Warranty - Will you be asking for a home warranty? Will you ask for the Seller to pay for it?
Mediation - If a dispute arises, how are you and the Seller directed to handle it?
Seller Disclosure Deadline - What should the deadline date be for the Seller to provide all seller disclosures?
Due Diligence Deadline - What should the deadline date be for you to complete due diligence?
Financing & Appraisal Deadline - What should the deadline date be for you to cancel based on loan denial?
Settlement Deadline - What should the deadline date be for you and the Seller to complete closing?
Response Deadline - How long should you allow for the Seller to respond to your offer?
After considering all terms... The Seller may Accept, Counteroffer, or Reject the Offer.
Writing an Offer - Important factors should you consider?
Step 6
Writing and Negotiating an Offer

Buying A Home
In 7 Steps
Receive the Seller's Disclosures
This is the process where the Seller is required to provide information relating to the property.
• Seller Property Condition Disclosure - filled out, signed and dated from Seller.
• Commitment for the policy of Title Insurance, showing easements, encroachments and liens.
• HOA information, budget, minutes, assessments, CC&R's, and survey, water rights if applicable.
• Copy of any leases, rental, and property management affecting the property not expiring prior to closing.
• Notice of any claims and/or conditions relating to environmental problems & building or zoning code
violations.
Your Due Diligence (Evaluations and Inspections) – IMPORTANT DATE!
This is the time period provided to you as the Buyer to learn, review, inspect and decide if acceptable.
• Carefully review all items provided in the Seller's Disclosures.
• Schedule any physical condition inspections, tests and evaluations deemed necessary.
• Review the costs, terms and availability of homeowner's insurance for the property.
Your Right to Cancel or Resolve Objections
If you determine the Evaluations and Inspections to be unacceptable, you may:
• No later than the Due Diligence Deadline, cancel the contract by written notice to Seller.
• Or no later than the Due Diligence Deadline, resolve in writing any objections.
Remaining Contingencies and Financing
In the final steps of the transaction I will coordinate and complete any remaining details.
• Is the sale and/or mortgage contingent upon an appraisal? At what amount did the property appraise?
• How is your financing going? Are there any last minute issues for securing your mortgage?
• Is the sale contingent upon you selling your previous home? How is that sale going?
• Schedule a final pre-settlement walk-through inspection.
Settlement (Closing) – DO NOT SHOW UP IN YOUR MOVING VAN!
Settlement, and then Closing shall take place only when all of the following occur:
• Buyer and Seller have signed all documents required by REPC, Title, Lender, etc.
• Any monies required to be paid have been delivered by Buyer and/or Seller.
• The proceeds of the new loan have been "funded", then all closing docs are "recorded" at the County
Recorder.
• Hand off keys, garage door openers, manuals, warranties.
• Help you to find a new home in this area or offer relocation assistance.
Step 7
Managing the Transaction
Through Closing

Lets Get Started!
There is so much thought, knowledge and preparation that
goes into a successful home-buyer process. I will be your
resourceful guide through every step. Lets get started right
away and we’ll find your dream home soon.

Thank You for Your Business
Much of my business is based on referrals from satisfied clients.
If you know anyone who could benefit from my services,
please let me know how I can be of help!

Find Your Dream Home in 7 Steps

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