CELEBRATE YOUR HOME TEAM
Home Buying Guide
DEAR VALUED CLIENT, Thank you for taking the time to learn more about our brand of Real Estate. At the Celebrate Your Home Team, you are the most important part of what we do. From the beginning to the end of each transaction, we strive for a five-star experience for all of our clients. Whether this is your first home purchase or you've been through the buying process before, we know that every situation requires an individualized approach. That is why our team will take the time to listen to your story & find out your WHY. Once we understand your unique needs we provide you with a high level of service you deserve. We value our clients and the relationships we form during each transaction and strive to be your Realtor & trusted advisers for years to come. With a proven track record of success, we give a 100% guarantee that lives up to our promise offering you the level of service you deserve. We judge our success on how well we meet your needs. Thank you for your consideration - we truly look forward to working with you!
Amanda Eckart AMANDA ECKART LICENSED ASSOCIATE BROKER
THE ROLE OF A BUYER'S AGENT THEN VERSE NOW
NEWSPAPER AGE
DIGITAL AGE
NEXT-GEN TECHNOLOGY
Potential buyers contacted agents to see homes currently on the market and to get pricing of those homes.
Client demands forced real estate companies to publish their listings on their websites. The publishing of ALL listings, not just their own listings, quickly followed.
Any home that is listed on the Multiple Listing Service is at your fingertips through mobile and emerging technology. You can search for homes, pricing, photos, & more without ever contacting a Realtor.
WHAT NEXT-GEN TECHNOLOGY CANNOT PROVIDE An individualized approach to suit your personal needs E x c l u s i v e a n d o f f - m a r k e t p r o p e r t i e s - R e a l t o r s h a v e the networking capability to seek out homes that aren't accessible otherwise C u r r e n t l o c a l m a r k e t e x p l a n a t i o n A n a l y s i s o f a l l t h e a v a i l a b l e i n f o r m a t i o n Connecting the dots and letting you know if now is a good time to buy or the right time to sell
The New Way of Doing Real Estate TEAM APPROACH: We believe our clients can receive consistently better service from a team of specialists rather than an individual. We are dedicated to catering to every b u y e r ' s u n i q u e n e e d s.
You Deserve More We do more than help people buy homes. We solve problems. We create solutions. We connect the dots. We are the space between where you are and where you are going. With our team you'll achieve: a personalized experience better communication & accessibility superior support
collective knowledge & experience proven strategies to win a bid a network of trusted professionals
WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS T R A C K R E C O R D O F S U C C E S S 2 0 1 8
2 0 1 7
71+ FAMILIES SERVED $34,794,949 SALES VOLUME
84+ FAMILIES SERVED $37,835,624 SALES VOLUME
2 0 1 6
79+ Â FAMILIES SERVED $32,634,028 SALES VOLUME
Real Trends 2018-19 Ranked Top Real Estate Teams in the USA
71+
25+
100+
Happy families we served in 2018!
Years of combined Real Estate experience working for you!
Five star reviews on Zillow and Facebook! We Strive for 5
GIVING BACK
RANKED TOP 1%
Pledged thousands of $ to charitable organizations each year!
Among the top 1% of real estate professionals and teams in America!
TEAM > 1 A team of Real Estate professionals working for YOU!
We offer white-glove concierge service to our clients and have created many lasting relationships throughout the years!
We've got a list of exclusive upcoming homes for sale!
ADDED VALUE
FREE professional photos, staging, & more!
INSIDE SCOOP
#1 Top Ranking Real Estate Team| KW Points North LISTINGS SOLD + CLOSED UNITS + CLOSED VOLUME + LISTINGS TAKEN
BUYING PROCESS TIMELINE #1: INITIAL CONSULT WITH CELEBRATE YOUR HOMEÂ Strategy session Listen to your WHY and devise a winning plan Assess needs, goals, budget
#2: GET PRE-APPROVED All mortgages are not created equal Avoid common mistakes when choosing a lender. Ask us about all the available options.
#3: MAKE OFFER Prepare by doing your homework Initial offer amount Proposed earnest money Financing, copy of pre-approval letter/proof of funds Closing & possession date (30-day window) Inspection, appraisal, contingencies Buyer's letter to the seller Choose attorney
#4: DUE DILIGENCE/INSPECTION The GOOD, the BAD, the UGLY 48-72 hours after acceptance of an offer Team member attends with you to review results with an inspector Verify taxes, obtain survey/co's on file Review inspection results & explore options
#5: UNDER CONTRACT Status updated to PENDING Attorneys will review and negotiate final contract details Finance, appraisal, & other contingencies begin Deliver earnest money & sign a formal contract Secure lender & start financing process
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#6: APPRAISAL AND TITLE REPORT The appraisal is paid for in advance (approx $400-500) and ordered by your lender Your title report is ordered by your attorney and submitted to your bank for review and clearance
#7: MORTGAGE COMMITMENT Finalize lender requirements Obtain final loan commitment Clear to close from lender
#8: PRE-CLOSING Get closing confirmation date from Attorneys Final walk-through with-in 24 hours of closing Final oil tank reading - buyers pay for remaining oil at closing Schedule utility switch-over approximately one week prior PSEG takes 48 hours Arrange for garbage/carting service
#9: CLOSING DAY CELEBRATE your new HOME Attend closing in person Receive keys, manuals, documents, etc
#10: HOME OWNERSHIP Settle in and spread the word Ask about our Trusted Recommendation list Stay in touch - we hope to be your trusted advisers for years to come! Review us on Zillow!
First Consultation STEP 1 We want to understand your WHY. At an initial meeting, we take the time to listen to your story and set up a plan that best suits your exact needs. MOTIVATION What is the reason for your move? What will make this move a success? What is your timeline? What is your budget? Do you have a home to sell? If yes, do you need to sell it first? Cash or financing? Have you been preapproved? What past real estate experience do you have?
GOALS
New home must-haves... Schools? Location? Yard? Beds/Baths? Features? Pool? Willing to update baths? Kitchen? Garage? Basement? Attic? First-floor master?
PRE-APPROVAL Pay stubs and bank statements to start loan application. Continue to pay debts and loans on time. Don't make any large credit card purchases. Don't open new credit cards. Don't change your job
UNDERSTANDING THE CURRENT MARKET Average list price to sales price ratio Average days on market Seller's market, buyer's market, balanced What to expect in your price/neighborhood range
BUYER BROKERAGE You pay nothing for our service, the seller pays our commission Review & sign the agency disclosure and buyer brokerage agreement once we agree to work together.
FINDING YOUR HOME STEP 2
WHAT WE WILL DO FOR YOU
ESTABLISH YOUR OFFER
PROTECTING YOUR INTERESTS
Set up a search on
Condition
Questions and property
CelebrateYourHome.com
Length of time on the
inquiries
to receive notifications
market
of new listings and price
Buyer activity
changes Research For Sale By Owner properties Contact homeowners that have intentions of selling
If you see a property that catches your eye. call us We will explore ALL
Urgency of seller
available homes
Low balling isn't always
Request copies of property
the smartest choice. Utilize DOTLOOP
survey/CO's, verify taxes, oil tank abandonment certificates, & termite
soon - off-market
electronic software for
properties that may
easy and efficient
Verify HOA dues
match your needs
signatures on contract
Review comparables to
Utilize private agent
paperwork.
groups to stay in the
Communicate thoroughly
know about upcoming
with all parties; lender,
home inspection and
listing agent, and
review results - allow 4
listings Call neighborhoods you've identified
attorney
warranty
determine an offer strategy and devise a winning plan Will accompany you on
hours Be prepared for home inspection fees
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UNDER CONTRACT STEP 3
ATTORNEY'S ROLE Negotiates contract particulars Makes sure all discussions are verified on the contract. The contract will prevail. The contract of sale is the critical legal document that governs the real estate transaction. Further verify co's and zoning Holds the earnest money deposit Obtains covenants and restrictions, etc for HOA's Oversees all contingencies Protects the purchaser in case financing can not be obtained.
Buyer Closing Costs These are the estimated costs associated with purchasing residential property on Long Island. You should consult with your real estate attorney and/or loan officer for specifics costs pertaining to you.
FEES Home Inspection: $500-600 Property Survey - if needed: $600-800 Buyer’s Attorney: Typically $1100-1500 Title Insurance: Approx. $450 per $100K of sales price under $1M, +15% on $1M or more Recording Fees: $250-$750 Municipal Search: $350-$500 Real Estate Tax Adjustment: Pro-rated depending on when the tax is collected
MORTGAGE CLOSING COSTS Bank Fees: $750 Application Fee: $350 Processing Fee: $330 Appraisal Fee: $300-$1500 Bank Attorney: $650-$750 Tax Escrow: 2 to 6 Months Mortgage Title Insurance: Approx. $130 per $100K of the mortgage amount Mortgage Tax – Nassau & Suffolk (paid by borrower): 1-3 Family Home or Condo: 0.80% of the loan amount Short Term Interest: Equal to the interest for the balance of the month in which you close Costs do vary from lender to lender
ADDITIONAL REAL ESTATE EXPENSES Common charge adjustment for condos: prorated for the month of closing Miscellaneous condominium charges: vary by building *Peconic Bay Tax: Only applies to properties in the townships of Southampton, East Hampton, Riverhead, Southold, and Shelter Island.
Disclaimer: We do not represent that these are the entirety of potential costs. This list is to be used as a general guide.
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PROPERTY CLOSING
STEP 4 STAYING INVOLVED WILL ENSURE A SUCCESSFUL OUTCOME FOR YOUR HOME BUYING PROCESS!
HOMEWORK Obtain pre-approval Study the listing that we email to you. Drive by the homes & neighborhoods you like on the weekends when activity is in full swing. Talk to neighbors and ask questions about living in communities that interest you. Check out school rankings: GreatSchools.org
We will provide you with business cards to take to any open houses you attend Call us with any questions about properties you see online We will schedule showings for all properties of interest. Be loyal to our team and our process
CLOSING DATE Attorney will coordinate and notify all parties regarding the closing date Y o u w i l l b e n o t i f i e d o n l y a f e w d a ys i n a d v a n c e
WALK THROUGH S c h e d u l e t h e w a l k - t h r o u g h w i t h i n 2 4 h o u r s o f c l o s i n g We will accompany you at the walk-through Verify negotiables were completed
UTILITIES
Prior to closing, approx 72 hrs turned on in your name We've created a Utility Resource guide for your convenience
CONTINUED RELATIONSHIP The best compliment is a referral Take a few minutes to spread the word about our your experience on Zillow.com
There's No Place Like home
Will you be ready when your dream home pops up? In today’s competitive market, when you find the house of your dreams, there are often five other people dreaming of it too. How can you stand out from the other potential buyers?
It’s easy with our Approved to Move ™ program. With Approved to Move ™, you’ll have a fully underwritten approval in hand before you start looking. We do all of the paperwork up front so when the right home does come along, you’re ready. Sellers love Approved to Move™ because it’s virtually as good as a cash offer. A little more work upfront by us means you won’t lose the house of your dreams.
Staff & Team Members MEET THE AWESOME PEOPLE BEHIND THIS BRAND AMANDA ECKART
LICENSED REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATE BROKER Amanda is a self-proclaimed real estate nerd bringing over 20 years of experience to her clients and team. Amanda has over 400-lifetime sales to her name and consistently ranks in the top 1% percent of Realtors on Long Island. Amanda attributes her continued success to staying focused on industry trends, maintaining client relationships, and her island-wide reputation for excellent service. Outside of the office, Amanda loves cheering on her daughters at their sporting events, going to concerts with her husband, and spending time at home with friends. Amanda also understands the importance of giving back and actively partakes in her local Chamber, PTA, Royal Education Foundation, and Pinktie Charity.
DONNA MCKEOWN LICENSED REAL ESTATE SALESPERSON Donna is a life long resident of Long Island, residing on the North Shore in Port Jefferson. Donna is an active mom of two with a sunny personality and a leader in her community serving both her local PTA and Rotary. She can be found most summer nights gathering at the beach with friends and family sharing a meal and watching the sunset. Donna attributes her success as a realtor to her in-depth knowledge of the Celebrate Your Home Team market area, her ability to form strong client relationships built on trust and honesty, and her individualized approach to every transaction.
MICHAEL AMBROZY LICENSED REAL ESTATE SALESPERSON As a Penn State graduate, Michael has had a successful career in Healthcare Marketing and Sales. Mike is dedicated to helping his clients attain their real estate goals, finding the perfect house, negotiating the best options, and seeing the contract through to closing. The level of service he offers his clients is what truly makes him an asset at the Celebrate Your Home Team. Michael currently resides in Port Jefferson with wife Lisa, daughters Katie, Charlotte, and Emily, and beloved dog DJ. In his spare time, Michael enjoys sharing his love of the outdoors through flyfishing and cold water conservation efforts. As a self-taught home chef, Michael is always ready to create unforgettable meals with friends and family.
BETH HAYDE CLIENT CARE COORDINATOR CERTIFIED HOME STAGER LICENSED REAL ESTATE SALESPERSONÂ As Celebrate Your Homes Client Care Specialist, Beth is incredibly committed to making sure clients receive the level of service promised and works behind the scenes implementing marketing strategies and increasing brand awareness. She is also Certified as a Home Stager and utilizes her design eye when preparing each home for sale and ensure picture-perfect listings for her team. Beth enjoys all things outdoors and can often be found snowshoeing or skiing in the winter and paddleboarding or hiking in the summer.
Our team is continually evolving according to industry trends and may include additional Licensed Real Estate Sales Professionals.
WE STRIVE FOR FIVE HERE'S WHAT OUR MOST RECENT CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US
Amanda Eckart is hands
Mike was able to provide all
down the best agent in town!
the details that the town has
Her pricing was spot on and
to offer. Due to our work
our house sold fast. She is
Jefferson, unlike other
schedule, he was extremely
very personable and
realtors we conferred with.
flexible and was able to get
She understood what we are
us appointments at all
looking for and did not
different times and days of
persuade or influence us
responsive. If you want to buy or sell your home, we highly recommend Amanda! -M. Coffey. 2019
Amanda and her team were extremely personable and knowledgeable. She kept us
the week to accommodate us to view available properties. He was pleasant to work with and made it a stress-
Donna was amazing! She knew the “pulse” of Port
other than sticking with what we wanted. An excellent experience! We love our house. -Ilona P, buyer 2018
free environment from
apprised of the market
beginning to end. We thank
conditions, was readily
you for being a part of
We chose Amanda from the
available to answer questions,
helping us make our new
start due to her
and always kept us informed.
house into our future home!
She provided insight in
-Port Jefferson buyer 2018
preparing the house for viewing and added their personal touch to stage the house. We felt she maximized our sale price based on the market conditions at that time. She also recommended a local attorney who provided impeccable service all the way through the final closing. We highly recommend Amanda and Celebrate Your Home Team. -Port Jefferson Seller, 2019
professionalism, passion, and up to date marketing knowledge. We chose to list our house for sale or rent
It was a great experience
which brought interest from
working with Amanda. The
multiple parties. In the end,
main thing she is absolutely
we chose the best option for
trustworthy. We felt
us in a shorter time
completely in great hands with
frame. Amanda is the one to
her all along this listing
list your home with. We highly
process. She is very
recommend working with her
knowledgeable, patient to
and her team. Thank you for
answer any question possible. I
all you did for us. We have no
would absolutely recommend
doubt we will be working
Amanda and her team!
together again!
-Olga K, bought a home 2018
-Lindsay & Daniel, Sellers 2018
FIND ALL OF OUR FIVE STAR REVIEWS ON ZILLOW.COM 12
BUYER SUCCESS STORY BOUGHT A WATERVIEW DREAM HOME SIGHT UNSEEN
After living in the south for seven years we decided it was time to return back home to New Y o r k . W e f o u n d o u r a g e n t, M i c h a e l A m b r o z y, o n the internet and quickly formed a relationship with him. Because we were so far away, we t r u s t e d M i k e w h o l e h e a r t e d l y a n d h a d t o t a l confidence in his opinion. He graciously looked at every property we were interested in, sent videos, showed family members, gave us his honest feedback and advice and never made us feel like a bother. Finally, after a few bumps in the road, we found the perfect home and sent Mike to preview it for us. We were afraid that in the time it would take for us to fly back to New York this house might be sold, so we decided to go for it sight unseen. W i t h h i s a s s u r a n c e a n d a d v i c e, w e m a d e a n o f f e r s i g h t u n s e e n o n a b e a u t i f u l c u s t o m h o m e overlooking the water and got the house!
WE FEEL VERY FORTUNATE WE FOUND MIKE, HE IS OUR REALTOR & OUR FRIEND. WE COULDN'T BE HAPPIER IN OUR NEW HOME!
The Doerrbeckers Purchased a home in 2018
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CLOSING FOR A CAUSE When you buy or sell a home with us, our closing gift to you is a donation to the Long Island Chapter of Pinktie. This local organization gives 100% back locally to organizations such as Stony Brook Children's Hospital. Purchasing a home with us positively impacts our local community.
Real Estate Powerhouse W o r l d w i d e Keller Williams Realty is the largest real estate franchise in the world - home to more real estate professionals than any other company.
celebrateyourhome.com
CELEBRATE YOUR HOME TEAM at Kel l er Wi l l i ams Poi nt s Nor t h 111 N. Country Road Port Jefferson, NY 11777 631.403.0053
100 Crossways Park Drive, Suite 104 Woodbury, NY 11797 516.865.1800
