Homebuyer’s Presentation AN
ELITE
PLAN
TO
OWN
Heston Bush, a proud native of Ada, Oklahoma, has
seamlessly woven a path of professional excellence and charm in the dynamic world of real estate. After graduating from Latta High School, Heston immersed himself in higher education at East Central University, earning a distinguished Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. Heston’s journey in real estate began at the young age of 18, where his innate sales acumen led him to a pivotal position within a prominent real estate firm in Ada, Oklahoma. Fueled by determination, this role became a stepping stone to fund his college education and ignited his passion for the industry. In 2011, Heston earned his real estate license, and his commitment to excellence propelled him to new heights. In 2018, Heston achieved a significant milestone by attaining his Broker’s license and subsequently assuming the role of Managing Broker at a distinguished real estate office in Sulphur, Oklahoma. As a multi-million-dollar producer since then, Heston has solidified his status as a full-time, full-service agent, boasting an impressive portfolio spanning residential, farm and ranch, commercial, foreclosures, and Broker Pricing Opinions (BPO). What sets Heston apart is not just his stellar sales record but also his unwavering commitment to delivering a seamless experience for his clients. Armed with excellent communication skills, customer service expertise, and a deep understanding of cutting-edge technologies, Heston ensures a modern, efficient, and personalized
HESTON BUSH
BROKER-ASSOCIATE ®
approach to real estate transactions. From contactless signings to video messaging for showings, he is well-versed in every facet of the real estate landscape. Heston proudly serves clients’ diverse real estate needs throughout central Oklahoma, including
key areas such as Oklahoma City, Norman, Stillwater, Shawnee, Ada, and Edmond—his current home. Beyond his professional commitments, Heston remains an active and engaged community member. A former Timber Creek Homeowners Association president and a proud member of the Edmond Chamber of Commerce, he understands the importance of building strong connections. When he’s not immersed in the world of real estate, Heston finds joy in exploring his passions for travel, music, and the culinary arts. This multifaceted approach to life is a testament to his vibrant personality and commitment to a wellrounded, fulfilling existence.
2 CHINOWTH & COHEN REALTORS®
TESTIMONIALS "OUR OKLAHOMA REALTOR
We’ve purchased and sold a few houses using many different agents, and we have been traveling for the past year and half in the western states looking for houses. So we have dealt with our fair share of agents. We were looking for something more rural but not in a specific area. Generally we have not had a lot of luck with agents being able to show us distant properties, so we would always get an agent in whichever county we happened to be looking in. That was our plan until Heston convinced us that he could do it all. Now, we’ve heard this before, lots of times. It never worked out before so we shut him down pretty good when he suggested it. We’re glad we changed our minds though because no matter where a house was located, Heston made sure we got to see it. Sometimes driving for hours. He also calls about things right away—he’s diligent, not just with us but others we’re dealing with. He helped us find vendors for projects, etc. Not all agents have been willing to do this. Also he just seems like a good guy. We like the way he conducted his business with us and with others. We consider him our Oklahoma REALTOR now." —Nick D.
"NO STRESS FIRST HOME PURCHASE
Heston was my REALTOR for my first home purchase. My work and being father of three kept me incredibly busy. I told Heston when we first met that I would greatly rely on him to take care of the details and make this as simple as possible. Heston took that to heart and reduced the stress of the home buy greatly. He’s sharp, well spoken, kind and dedicated. Anyone looking to purchase a property would greatly benefit having Heston as their REALTOR." —Garrett B.
"EASY HOME BUYING EXPERIENCE
First time home buyer here, I had no clue where to start. With the help of Heston’s patience and expertise we were able to have an easy home buying experience. He referred us to many of the local contractors needed for inspections and they all did an amazing job. My wife and I completed an unorthodox home buying where I was not able to be in the area. I definitely recommend if you need a REALTOR out of the Edmond/OKC area, he’s your man!" —Lupe Rodriguez
"10 OF OUT 10
In August of 2022, I talked with Heston to begin looking for homes in the Yukon area. Heston came and picked me up and we looked at several homes that day. Throughout the whole day we had great conversations and an overall good time. Since I travel for work it became difficult for me to view homes for a few months. However, the whole time Heston maintained constant communication while sending me homes in my criteria. Ultimately, I found an off-market home that he helped me negotiate a contract for that was over an hour away from Oklahoma City. Heston had no problem driving for showings, inspections, and closing. After closing he contacted me several times to make sure I was comfortable in the home and satisfied with my purchase. I would give Heston a 10/10 and would recommend him to anyone looking to purchase a home." —Hayden W.
CHINOWTH & COHEN REALTORS® 1
Advantages of Using a REALTOR®
Congratulations on your decision to buy a home! It’s a challenging project, and there are many ways a professional can help. Here are some of the many ways you may benefit from working with a REALTOR®
MANY MORE HOME CHOICES
Your REALTOR® has thousands of homes to choose from through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), so you’re more likely to find the home that’s just right for you and find it quicker. In fact, a majority of the homes for sale are listed by REALTORS® and aren’t available to you unless you are working with a REALTOR®. Networking with other realtors to find out about upcoming listings is part of the service provided.
A NUMBER OF TRANSACTIONS “FALL OUT”
Unfortunately, it’s true. Some transactions fall apart before closing. An experienced REALTOR® may be able to resolve problems and see your transaction through to a successful closing.
KNOWLEDGE OF NEW HOME SUBDIVISIONS
New home subdivisions will welcome you and your REALTOR®. If you’re interested in buying a new home, take your agent with you on your first visit to each subdivision. Your professional REALTOR® is an important source of information who can supply background on the builder, nearby subdivisions, and the local community, as well as ensuring your interests are out first.
IT’S A MAJOR INVESTMENT
You use a professional for your legal, financial and health needs. Why gamble on what may be your biggest investment without a professional at your side?
HELP WITH FSBO’S
If you consider a “For Sale By Owner,” take your REALTOR® along to help negotiate the contract.
LESS LIABILITY
You may have more protection from legal and financial liability, especially as real estate transactions become more complicated.
THE PAPERWORK 2 CHINOWTH & COHEN REALTORS®
Your experienced REALTOR® will negotiate and prepare the purchase contract for you and assist you throughout the escrow process.
Buyer Services YOUR REALTOR PUTS YOU FIRST, ALWAYS
Real Estate is a commission-only world, however, they know when they lead with integrity and do what is best for the client above all else, you’ll send every friend, family member, and co-worker their way, which is worth so much more!
CUSTOM PROPERTY SEARCH
Zillow, Realtor.com, and other home sites are great resources for the public to find listings for sale, however, your realtor can provide you with more accurate and detailed information on properties from the Multiple Listings Service (MLS) that is only available to Realtors. In a hot market, it’s imperative that you take advantage of a custom search from your Realtor to ensure you’re one of the first to know about new properties hitting the market.
ANY LISTING, EVEN IF IT’S FOR SALE BY OWNER
If a home is for sale, your Realtor can help! Whether it’s their listing, one of their competitor’s listings, or even a property that is not listed with a Realtor, your Realtor is more than happy to schedule all showings for you, furnish market data, assist you in making an offer, and provide strategic negotiation tips.
FROM START TO FINISH
From pre-qualification with a trusted lender, to scheduling all showings and inspections, to finalizing the closing, your Realtor coordinates each step of the home-buying process for you. Essentially, they handle everything from start to finish.
5 Factors That Decide Your Credit Score 1. PAYMENT HISTORY Do you pay your debts on time? 2. AMOUNT OF DEBT Less is best. 3. CREDIT HISTORY The longer the better. 4. AMOUNT OF NEW CREDIT New credit is considered more risky! 5. TYPES OF CREDIT i.e. installment loans, credit cards, and a mortgage. Credit scores range between 200 and 800. Scores above 640 are considered desirable for obtaining a mortgage. For more on evaluating and understanding your credit score, go to www.myfico.com.
CREDIT DO’S • Pay your mortgage or rent payments on time • Stay current on all outstanding accounts
LOAN APPLICATION CHECKLIST •
• Continue working for the same employer
•
• Notify your Lender immediately if any situation
•
• Stay with your current insurance company
arises that could possibly affect your income, assets, or credit
CREDIT DON’TS • Don’t switch bank accounts
• Don’t transfer balances between accounts
• • •
Last 30 days paystub
Copy of last 2 years’ W-2s and tax returns
Most recent 2 month’s checking and savings account statements
Name of homeowner’s insurance company
Letter explaining derogatory credit or bankruptcy (if applicable)
Copy of Divorce Decree and
Property Settlement (if applicable)
• Don’t increase the balance of any credit cards
• Don’t consolidate debt, including credit card debt
• Don’t close any accounts, including credit card accounts
• Don’t apply for ANY credit (new vehicle, furniture, appliances, etc)
• Don’t change your job, employer, the way you are paid, or become self-employed
• Don’t pay off charge-off or collection accounts before consulting with your lender
• Don’t make large deposits without the ability to document the source of the funds CHINOWTH & COHEN REALTORS® 3
FIND A REALTOR to represent your interests in the transaction. Communication is key.
We will be a team, when you have a need or concern please tell me. I will assist you in purchasing a home: for sale by owner, marketed by a realty company, new construction.
FULL LOAN APPROVAL from a mortgage banker. Most sellers are requiring a pre-approval
letter from a lender before looking at an offer on their home. Getting fully approved puts you ahead of the game. (Have a copy emailed to me.) Your loan officer will let you know how much you qualify for and can give you a good idea of payments, closing costs, and other expenses you can expect along the way.
LET’S GO SHOPPING! Now that you know how much you want to spend, we can work
together to find the perfect home for you. Don’t forget your checkbook! (Yes, you will need it for earnest money.
MAKING AN OFFER? Once you have found a home you love you will want to put an offer in. I will look up the comps in the area and disclosure for the property. Then we will want to sit down and discuss the details of your offer: purchase price, financing option or cash, earnest money amount, close date, additional items to be left on premise, things to be removed, home warranty, contingencies, any other requirements or items to be paid by the seller.
EARNEST MONEY is a check or money order that is given to secure the property. It is only
cashed once an agreement has been reached by both parties. It is held in an escrow account until closing. At closing it will go towards to purchase of the home. You can lose this earnest money if you do something outside of the confines of the contract so remember when your Realtor, the closer or lender ask you for information or decisions, you need to respond as quickly as possible. If there is a reason you can’t respond, then you need to discuss with us so we can help or do an extension if necessary/doable to protect you.
NEGOTIATIONS: Once the offer is submitted, the seller can do one of three things: accept the offer as is, counter offer, or reject the offer. Here is where I come in handy... 4 CHINOWTH & COHEN REALTORS®
What To Expect When Purchasing a Home INSPECTION: Now that you are under contract, your time period to do inspections begins. I
will assist in scheduling the inspections to fit your schedule. Most homes have minor faults, it does not mean they are uninhabitable. You need to be aware of any issues you can take care of on your own and what if any you would like to ask that the seller be responsible for taking care of before closing. (Note: during this time your financing must get locked in and appraisal ordered.)
REPAIR REQUEST: You have a specified amount of time to request any repairs. You must
submit in writing all repair requests to the sellers. The sellers will then do one of three things: they will sign off on all requested repairs, counter offer on the repairs, or they will refuse to do the repairs.
RE-INSPECTION: This may be done by the inspector for a fee or by yourself, unless
specified by your lender. (ie: sometimes you must pay an appraiser to come out to re-inspect a required repair.)
CLOSING: Have the funds wired to the title company for the amount specified by your lender. When you get the encrypted email call me or your closer, to make sure it goes to the right place. Get ready to sign a stack of papers. Once they are all signed and the funding has come through. CONGRATULATIONS! You are the proud new owner of a home!
Go to open houses, enjoy looking, and I can get information on any house you like! Just remember to tell the agents at the open house as soon as you walk in that you are working with me and write my information down at opens, not yours. That way the Realtor(s) can contact me for feedback and will not bug you.
CHINOWTH & COHEN REALTORS® 5
Tips on Buying in a Tight Market Increase your chances of getting your dream house instead of losing it to another buyer with these easy steps.
1. Get prequalified for a mortgage. You’ll be able to make a firm commitment to buy and make your offer more desirable to the seller. 2. Stay in close touch with your real estate associate to find out first about new listings that come on the market, and be ready to go see a house as soon as it goes on the market. 3. Scout out new listings yourself. Look at Internet sites, newspaper ads, and drive by the neighborhood frequently. Maybe you’ll see a brand-new “for sale” sign before anyone else. If you do, call me immediately. 4. Be ready to make a decision. Spend lots of time in advance deciding what you must have so you won’t be unsure when you have the chance to make an offer. (See your wish list and must-haves attached in this packet.) 5. Bid competitively. You may not want to start out offering the absolute highest price you can afford, but make your offer reflect how much you want this home. Don’t try to go too low to get a deal. In a tight market, you’ll lose out. 6. Keep contingencies to a minimum. Restrictions, such as needing to sell your home before you move or wanting to delay the closing until a certain date, can make your offer unappealing. In a tight market, you’ll probably be able to sell your house rapidly. Another option, talk to your lender about getting a bridge loan to cover both mortgages for a short period. 7. Don’t get caught in a buying frenzy. Just because there’s competition doesn’t mean you should just buy anything. Even though you may want to make sure your offer is attractive, don’t just neglect inspections that help ensure that your house is sound. A home inspection is a great idea!
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Pieces of Money You Need to Know About EARNEST MONEY
Earnest money is a check written at time of offer that proves to a seller you’re serious about the purchase. Earnest money is held in escrow until closing and then applied towards the purchase. Earnest money usually ranges from $500–$5,000 depending on the price of the home.
INSPECTION MONEY
It’s your right to choose any inspector you dream qualified, even if that’s your Uncle Billy Bob. If you don’t already have an inspector in mind, I will recommend and even schedule on your behalf a group of highly skilled, experienced, and licensed inspectors that put your best interest first. Inspections typically occur in the first 7–10 days after having a fully executed contract and can range from $250–$1,500 depending on the home’s features (pool, septic, chimney, etc) and depending on how in depth you want to go.
APPRAISAL MONEY
If a mortgage is involved, your lender must order an appraisal to ensure the house is worth the amount it’s lending. This typically costs between $450–$650 and is paid directly to your lender within the first five days of the contract period. CHINOWTH & COHEN REALTORS® 7
Home Warranties WHAT IS A HOME WARRANTY?
A service contract that covers the repair or replacement of important home system components
and appliances that break down over time. That means whether it’s you’re A/C unit burning up in the summer, your heater failing in the winter or any number of other covered systems and appliances calling it quits, you and your family will have one less thing to worry about.
WHY IS A WARRANTY RECOMMENDED?
Breakdowns are inevitable—home system components and appliances simply wear out over time.
Unlike most homeowners insurance, a home warranty plan protects your budget by covering an unexpected repair or replacement of crucial items when they stop working due to normal wear and tear, saving you money in the long run. Think of it like this…
HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE COVERS THINGS THAT MIGHT HAPPEN Fire damage, Hail and Wind damage. Theft & Vandalism
HOME WARRANTY COVERS THINGS THAT WILL HAPPEN
Breakdowns of HVAC systems, Water Heater, Oven, Dishwasher, Plumbing & More
WITHOUT A HOME WARRANTY
Repair or replacement of key home systems and appliances can be expensive. Talk with me about the average cost of a home warranty and strategies for including one in the contract so that you’re protected from unexpected problems in your first year of home ownership. 8 CHINOWTH & COHEN REALTORS®
Inspection 101 1. EMP (Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing) 2. Roof
3. Structural 4. Drainage
5. Termite & Wood Rot
6. Additional Inspections (i.e. Spetic, Pool & Spa, Crawl Space) Be sure to inform me if you want any of these additional inspections preformed since they are an
additional cost and may even require different inspectors to be scheduled. It is also important to
note that the inspection only covers the main dwelling, therefore shops, detached garages, pool house, and other structures are not included unless specifically requested and an additional fee will likely be applied.
ARE ALL INSPECTIONS THE SAME?
No! Picking an experienced and thorough inspector is crucial. It’s also important to note that ONLY structural engineers can make structural recommendations. Beware of general home inspectors
claiming to do structural inspections. In the state of Oklahoma they are not licensed to suggest
remedies and will typically refer you to an engineer if there is something of concern which might end up costing you more in the long run.
Talk with me about trusted partners to help service your home inspections needs. CHINOWTH & COHEN REALTORS® 9
What Are Closing Costs?
Closing costs are fees associated at the closing of a real estate transaction when the title of the property is transferred from the seller to the buyer. Closing costs typically range from 3–6% of the purchase price and are incurred by both parties. Here are some common closing costs: • A fee for running your credit report.
• A loan origination fee, which lenders charge for processing the loan paperwork for you. • Attorney fees.
• Discount points, which are fees you pay in exchange for a lower interest rate. • Survey fee, which covers the cost of verifying property lines.
• Title search fees, which pay for a background check on the title to make sure there aren’t things such as unpaid mortgages or liens on the property.
• Title insurance, which protects the buyer and lender in case the title isn’t clean. (If combo isn’t purchased)
• Escrow deposit, which pays a couple of months of property taxes, homeowner insurance, and private mortgage insurance.
• Prorations for your share of the homeowners’ association fees.
• Recording fee, which is paid to the county in exchange for recording the new land records. Lenders are required by law to give you a Loan Estimate, which will include what the closing costs on your
home should be. At least three business days before closing, the lender will give you a Closing Disclosure statement, which outlines exact closing fees. This Closing Disclosure statement must be signed by the buyer the same day it is issued to avoid a delay in closing.
12 Moving Tips 1.
If possible, move on a weekday while banks, utility companies, and government offices are open.
2.
Use sheets, blankets, and towels to separate pictures, dishes, and other fragile objects. This cuts
down on space and moving supplies. Socks can be slipped around the wine glasses to help pad the delicate stems.
3.
Instead of wrapping each plate in newspaper or costly bubble wrap, alternate the real plates with
4.
Packing plates vertically, rather than flat stacked.
5.
Mark each box with its contents and destination room so that you an your helpers will know where
6.
Fill two “OPEN ME FIRST” boxes containing snacks, instant coffee, tea bags, soap, toilet paper,
Styrofoam disposable plates and—voila! Instant padding. Genius right?
each box belongs at your new pad.
toothpaste and brushes, medicine and toiletry items, a flashlight, tool kit, paper plates, cups, utensils, paper towels, and any other items you cannot live without.
7.
Break out the garbage bags and pull one bag up around a cluster of your hanging clothes, then tie
8.
Have suitcases on wheels? Use them for packing heavy things like books.
9.
Take pictures of which TV cable goes to which input on the different components, or how certain
the open end by the hangers.
knick-knacks are displayed on the bookshelves to serve as an unpacking guide. Photos may also protect your goods for insurance purposes should anything get damaged in the move.
10. In the new home, resist the temptation to pile box in the garage, attic, or back closet, with a promise to get to them later. If a boxful of stuff is so unnecessary that a year could pass without needing the
contents, maybe it’s time to ditch the contents before the move. Otherwise, you risk forgetting where you put important things, or end up parking the car outside all winter.
11. The desire to relax is strong. The coffee table pushed up against the sofa looks so inviting, but those boxes aren’t going to unpack themselves. Resist the urge to derail your momentum. Otherwise, those boxes will just stand over your head. Unpack the TV last, sink deeply into that comfy couch, and revel in the knowledge of a well-done moving job any pro would envy.
12. If moving locally, arrange for your pets to stay with a friend or family member as animals can become confused and frightened during the move.
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128 N. Broadway St | Coweta (918) 279-6227
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8988 S. Sheridan Suite J, Tulsa, OK 74133 | (918) 392-0901
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1441 E. 41st St | Tulsa (918) 392-9900
MUSKOGEE
1806 Chandler Rd. | Muskogee (918) 537-2263
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2814 W Country Club Dr | OKC (405) 843-8188
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13512 E 116th St N | Owasso (918) 392-9990
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3702 S Hwy 97 | Sand Springs (918) 419-2333
SKIATOOK
500 W. Rogers Blvd. | Skiatook (918) 578-6820
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3912 E. 91st St | Tulsa (918) 392-0900
WAGONER
122 N. Main St. | Wagoner (918) 279-6227