Buy With Confidence by Four Seasons Sotheby's International Realty

Buy with Confidence

NAVIGATING YOUR JOURNEY WITH EXPERT GUIDANCE

Our Commitment to Exceptional Service from Start to Close.

At Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty, we understand the complexities of buying a home. Our team tailors services to your needs, using our extensive resources and experience to give you the knowledge and confidence to navigate your next home purchase smoothly.

Our commitment has always been to curate a superior experience for buyers - one that is characterized by excellence, integrity, and professionalism. Whether you are embarking on your first home purchase, transitioning from another home, pursuing commercial real estate, seeking out-of-state opportunities, or just exploring real estate options, it is essential to align yourself with experts. We possess an in-depth grasp of our local markets, fortified by an extensive global network.

We are committed to providing our buyer clients with unmatched buying strategies supported by research, market data, and direction throughout the buying process.

CEO/PRESIDENT & PARTNER

Your Expert Real Estate Advisor

Purchasing a home is one of the most rewarding investments you’ll ever make, offering lasting benefits for years to come. Our esteemed team of real estate advisors will guide you with expertise through every step, allowing you to make informed and confident decisions.

With the globally acclaimed Sotheby’s International Realty brand at your side, your offers gain unparalleled credibility, and your representation is elevated to new heights. Our 270 year legacy of unwavering client commitment and success ensure you have an experienced ally providing a competitive edge and access to invaluable resources.

Let us transform your home buying journey into a seamless and rewarding experience, fostering a partnership built on trust and a shared vision of your future.

The Value Our Advisors Provide

When you choose exclusive representation by one of our expert real estate advisors, you are securing an advocate dedicated to making your home buying journey as seamless and rewarding as possible. Here is how we demonstrate value and contribute to a successful purchase:

PRESENT & NEGOTIATE

a personalized purchase strategy tailored to your unique need and preferences, aligning with your long term goals.

you with an overview of current market dynamics and challenges, empowering you with the latest information.

offers to achieve the best possible terms and price.

CONNECT

you with trusted professionals for inspections and other home services.

ASSIST

with sourcing a mortgage and insurance broker to facilitate critical financial steps.

how your financial scope will meet your objectives through a comprehensive analysis.

ENSURE

alerts for properties matching your specifications to ensure you never miss an opportunity.

CREATE PROVIDE SET UP DETERMINE SCHEDULE

private tours and open house visits for properties listing on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), office-exclusive listings and off market properties.

ease in navigating inspections, paperwork, contingency deadlines, and avoiding potential pitfalls.

HANDLE

all behind-the-scenes work from research to paperwork, saving you valuable time.

SERVE

as your go-to conduit for expert advice on home valuation, improvements and market insights.

As your exclusive advisor, our local expertise and extensive experience will help you navigate your real estate transaction successfully and seamlessly.

Representation Agreement & Brokerage Compensation

Similar to a listing agreement, buyers execute a representation agreement when retaining a brokerage. This agreement explains the scope of our representation, our obligations as a buyer representative and the terms of our professional service fee. Once executed, it establishes that the advisor owes a fiduciary duty to represent your best interests throughout the purchase process including an obligation to:

• Use reasonable efforts and diligence, and to act in your best interest to locate a property at a price and upon terms acceptable to you.

• Use professional knowledge, skills, and data to determine a fair market value based on comparable properties and provide all the information relating to the property actually known by the advisor to you.

• Negotiate with the owner, or their representative(s) on your behalf.

Before you begin to tour properties, your advisor will review the Buyer Representation Agreement with you for your signature. It should be noted that the amount of real estate brokerage compensation is not fixed by law. It is set by each brokerage individually and may be negotiable between you and the brokerage.

UNDERSTAND BUYER REPRESENTATION

Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty Advisors will provide you with a Buyer Agency Agreement that will explain in detail the role of your Buyer Advisor. A Buyer Agency Agreement must be signed by the purchaser and the Broker in order for the Advisor to represent the purchaser on the buyer-side of a transaction. A Buyer Advisor represents only the buyer and promotes and protects their best interests throughout the transaction, keeping all information confidential. Once an agreement is signed, the Buyer Advisor owes a fiduciary duty to represent the best interests of the buyer throughout the purchase process.

ABOUT BROKERAGE COMPENSATION

Similar to a Listing Agreement, Buyers execute an Agency Agreement for professional services and representation between themselves and Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty. This confirms the compensation for the Buyer’s Advisor and Brokerage. It should be noted that the amount a brokerage charges is not fixed by law, the commission amount is negotiable, and brokerages may set minimum compensation.

HOW COMMISSIONS ARE PAID

PREP

Our Property Enhancement Program

We unlock the door to your best life - at Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty, we have connected with premier partners who will support a smooth and easy transactioneverything from pre-listing renovations to mortgage services and insurance. It’s like asking the hotel concierge to recommend the best restaurant in town: you know you will be treated with extra care when you get there because you are a guest at the hotel. Our agents take care of their clients in the same way.

REAL ESTATE FINANCING

Title Mortgage Solution, LLC is specializing in serving our clients in Vermont and New Hampshire with unparalleled dedication and expertise. Our mission is simple: to provide seamless mortgage solutions while prioritizing exceptional client service. Aligned with both local community partners and national wholesalers, we can offer the best combination of competitive rates, closing costs, and the widest range of unique and creative loan programs, all while keeping that local service which is so important.

HOME INSURANCE

NFP coordinates personal property insurance for your distinct needs. Our personal insurance specialists will work with you to identify potential exposures to loss and provide recommendations on appropriate coverage specific to you. Perhaps you have gatherings that require more liability coverage or fill your home with valuables you want to protect, NFP can help assess and make suggestions on how best to keep you and your belongings safe.

PRE-LISTING RENOVATIONS

Notable offers a line of credit for sellers to use to prepare a property for sale. Borrowers are liberated to set a budget rather than being required to determine their exact needs upfront. Notable’s loans are clear-cut, featuring simple interest and no hidden fees. Borrowers can always stay informed about their obligations, and borrowers and agents oversee the hiring of vendors and submitting expenses. The line of credit is paid off at closing.

HOME WARRANTIES

It’s not just coverage: It’s peace of mind. A home warranty also called a residential service contract, helps cover the cost of repairing or replacing certain appliances and systems in a home if they break down. Unlike homeowner’s insurance, a home warranty usually covers major appliances such as water heaters, stoves, and refrigerators and may include HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. Home warranties are usually a year-long term, paid in advance at closing.

HOME MANAGEMENT

Moving in, made easy. Moving doesn’t have to be a complicated process. It can be as easy as going from point A to point B.

• A dedicated concierge to assist you with all of your moving needs

• An online platform that makes it easy to compare quotes from multiple service providers

• A checklist of essential services to get ready for move-in day

• Access to exclusive, pre-negotiated savings

Your blueprint for building wealth. Whether you’ve just moved or have lived in your home for years, we can help you manage your home.

• Track the value of your home and how to leverage your home equity

• Decide which home improvement projects can deliver the most return on your investment

• Continuously monitor your home services to get you savings and reduce your expenses

RELOCATION SERVICES

Creating a new life in a new location is about much more than packing boxes, finding a new home, and finding new furniture. With the unmatched expertise of the Relocation Services division of Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty, we provide the framework and the resources you need to connect to new homes, new neighborhoods and new communities. And we do the same for top firms moving to New Hampshire, Vermont, the Hudson Valley, Saratoga Springs, Adirondack and Upstate regions of New York.

Sotheby’s International Realty’s White Glove Service

SOTHEBY’S VALUATIONS

Chances are you’ve been curious about the value of something unique or special in your life. That’s why Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty can facilitate appraisals and valuations for items such as jewelry, fine art, wine, and more — regardless of price.

FURNITURE CONSIGNMENT

For the design enthusiast, there is no better resource than Sotheby’s Home, the exclusive platform for buying and selling pre-owned home décor and furniture. From exclusive white-glove shipping to zero-cost listings, clients of Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty benefit from an exclusive suite of services designed to buy and sell new, nearly new or vintage and antique pieces at the click of a button.

The Home Buying Journey

SELECT AN ADVISOR

CONSULTATION & REPRESENTATION DOCUMENTS

REVIEW PREPARE YOUR FINANCES START SEARCHING FOR HOMES MAKE AN OFFER NEGOTIATE TERMS

ACCEPTED OFFER, BINDER OR CONTRACT

FINALIZE SALES CONTRACT

CONDUCT INSPECTIONS

COMPLETE THE APPRAISAL SECURE MORTGAGE COMMITMENT

CONDUCT WALKTHROUGH & CLOSING

Finding Your New Home

When you’re ready to search for a new home, our advisors offer the personalized and professional support needed to streamline the process. With our deep market knowledge, we aim to find you the ideal home quickly and on the best possible terms.

WORKING WITH YOUR ADVISOR

We listen carefully as you describe your home and community that will match your desired lifestyle. Our advisors have the immediate access to properties as soon as they come on the market and regularly preview homes during broker open house tours. This saves you both time and energy as we share with you the entire inventory of homes available so that you can select those that best meet your wants and needs.

FINANCIAL PREPAREDNESS

Before starting your home search, have your financing ready. Cash buyers should provide proof of funds, while mortgage seekers should get pre-approved. Your advisor can suggest several independent mortgage brokers, if needed. This ensures a smoother transaction and strengthens your offer.

PRIVATE TOURS MARKET INTELLIGENCE

Our advisors will schedule walk-throughs of selected properties.

Determining a home’s fair market value can be complex. Our hyper-local market reports, provided by our expert local advisors, ensure that you always have access to the latest market intelligence and are empowered to make informed decisions.

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

If your search takes you beyond our local areas or if you need to purchase or sell property anywhere in the world, we have access to a global network of Sotheby’s International Realty advisors in over 80 countries worldwide who will give you the same professional service you have received from us.

Smart Tools To Simplify Your Search

PROPERTY ALERTS

Experience unparalleled ease in your home search journey with our suite of cutting-edge technologies, each developed to streamline the process and elevate your buying experience. Our property alerts will notify you of new listings that meet your criteria to make your home search process easier and more efficient

BUYER TOUR GUIDE

SOTHEBYSREALTY.COM

SothebysRealty.com lets you search for home tailored to your lifestyle, whether you are looking for a city apartment, a country estate, or a waterfront property. Plus, you’ll have access to exclusive listings through our global affiliates, give you even more opportunities to find your perfect home.

OUR REGIONAL WEBSITE

Our regional website provides an exceptional user experience with high-definition photos, property and community videos and guides, 3D virtual tours, location based customization, commute times to NYC and Boston, personal preference options and search functionality.

Making An Offer

You have found a property that matches your desires and needs.

Making an offer involves more than naming the price you are willing to pay for the property. Depending on the customary practices in the location of the property you wish to purchase, your offer may be made in the form of an email, a memorandum that is not signed by any of the parties, a simplified binding agreement that is signed by all parties or a complete formal contract signed by all parties. Your advisor, a local expert in offers and negotiations, will assist you throughout the entire process.

Your offer should include the following:

• Purchase price

• Down payment amount

• If you’re obtaining a mortgage, including financing terms with pre-approval letters from your lender

• If your purchase will be in cash, provide proof of funds

• Closing date

• Personal property inclusions and exclusions

• Contingencies (mortgage, inspection, etc.)

When your offer has been accepted it does not always guarantee that you have secured the sale. The sellers may continue to show their home until contracts are fully executed. Depending on the type of agreement that you have signed, should a higher offer be submitted, the seller may have the right to accept it. Therefore, it is incumbent on the buyer to act quickly. Inspections should be scheduled as soon as possible and a contract signed in a timely manner. When the contract is signed by both the buyer and the seller, even with a mortgage contingency, the contract is generally considered binding.

It should be noted that contracts may contain many different and varying terms. Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty does not provide legal advice. You should consult with an attorney who will advise you on the specific terms of your contact and your legal rights.

Understanding Home Inspections

It is important to know what you are buying. If Possible, schedule your engineering inspections when you are able to be present. This will allow you to really get to know your prospective new home, its present condition and the repairs and maintenance necessary to protect your investment for the future. We recommend that you retain the services of licensed professionals to perform your inspections.

ASBESTOS

Found in homes built before 1980, asbestos is hazardous if disturbed. However, intact asbestos can be sealed. Use licensed contractors for any asbestos work. Visit www.epa.gov for details.

ENGINEERING

Inspects the home’s structural elements, heating, plumbing, air-conditioning, and electrical systems. Ensures all systems are functioning properly and identifies potential issues.

CARBON MONOXIDE (CO)

A toxic, colorless, odorless gas. Inspectors check the fuel-burning appliances for ventilation and ensure CO detectors are working.

LEAD PAINT

Checks for toxic paint chips and dust, especially in homes built before 1978. Important for preventing lead poisoning and ensuring legal compliance. Visit www. epa.gov for more information.

MOLD

Identifies mild presence that could pose health risks. Important for maintaining air quality and preventing structural damage.

SEPTIC

Evaluates the condition of the septic system. Crucial for preventing backups and ensuring proper waste management.

SMOKE DETECTORS

Tests for the presence of in-ground oil tanks. Essential for preventing environmental contamination and costly cleanups.

OIL TANKS PESTS

Inspects for wood-destroying insects. Ensures the home is free from infestation and potential structural damage.

RADON

Tests are available for air and water of this invisible, odorless gas from rocks and soil. High levels can pose health risks and mitigation systems can resolve issues. Visit www.epa.gov for more information.

Ensures detectors are installed, functional, and correctly placed. Vital for early fire detection and safety.

WATER

Tests well water quality and capacity. Important for ensuring safe drinking water and adequate supply.

Disclaimer: These are some of the most common inspection items, but there may be others that are specific to the type and location of the property. Consult a licensed home inspector for any additional questions or concerns about your home inspection.

Contract Terms, Contingencies and the Sale Process

Key aspects of the home buying process include understanding contract terms, navigating contingencies, and securing necessary protections. These steps ensure your interests are safeguarded and help you move smoothly from contract to closing with confidence.

MORTGAGE CONTINGENCY

if you will require a mortgage, secure a mortgage commitment prior to making any offers on properties. Your advisor can suggest several independent mortgage brokers if you need a contact. The mortgage broker or lending officer can provide pre-approval letters, which can be advantageous during the bidding process. When issuing a pre-approval, the lenders will look at criteria including cash available for closing costs, credit and income. The lender evaluates your financial ability to pay your mortgage payments.

APPRAISAL CONTINGENCY

An appraisal is ordered by the buyer or lender to substantiate the fair value of the property. If the appraisal matched or exceeds the purchase price, this contingency is satisfied. If the appraisal comes in lower than the purchase price, the buyer and the seller may need to renegotiate the price or terms to satisfy this contingency.

INSPECTION CONTINGENCY

Buyers should conduct inspections (e.g., building, pest, environmental) to verify the property’s condition. This contingency is satisfied once all inspections are completed and any significant issues are addressed and negotiated. If the property condition meets the buyer’s expectations and requirements, the contingency is considered satisfied.

SIGN THE CONTRACT AND MAKE DEPOSITS

Sign the contract and make necessary deposits. The customary deposit can range from 1% at offer acceptance to 10% upon contract execution. Deposits are typically held in escrow until closing.

SECURE INSURANCE POLICIES

Purchase homeowners and any required flood insurance. Secure homeowners insurance to protect your property against damage or loss, and obtain any required flood insurance to cover potential flooding risks, particularly if you reside in a designated flood zone.

The Closing Process

This is the day you have been waiting for. At the closing, you complete the purchase of your new property as the title is legally passed from the seller to you.

Your advisor and lender will work with a title company to order a title search and the appropriate title insurance. It may also be necessary to obtain an updated survey of the property. If you are financing your purchase, the lender will review all required documentation before the closing date is set. Your advisor will schedule the closing date, time and location in agreement with the seller’s advisor. They will inform you of the necessary documents, prepare a list of closing costs, and advise which checks need to be certified.

Final Walk Through

You should request a final walk-through of the property just before closing to ensure it is in satisfactory condition. This step verifies that any agreed-upon repairs have been completed and that all included fixtures and appliances are in place and functioning. Check for any new damage and ensure nothing intended to remain has been removed. This final inspection confirms that the property meets all contractual conditions, providing peace of mind before finalizing the purchase.

What Happens at the Closing

The title closer will review all documents and agree on the calculation of adjustments. The Title closer will ensure clear title to the property, satisfaction of any mortgages, liens, or judgments, payment of all taxes, absence of property violations, and a Certificate of Occupancy. The buyer must provide verification of insurance and a certified or bank check for the difference between the down payment, mortgage, and selling prince, subject to adjustments such as taxes and utilities. When all documents are signed, adjustments made, and the seller has received their payment, you will then receive the keys to the property.

Congratulations on Your New Home

We’re thrilled to be part of your journey to finding the perfect place. As you settle into your new home and neighborhood, your advisor will be there to support you every step of the way. Whether you need recommendations for local services, have questions about your new surroundings, or simply want to share your excitement about this new chapter, we’re here for whatever you need.

REMEMBER

Arrange for utilities such as electricity, gas, water and Internet to be transferred or set up in your name and schedule services like trash collection. Update your address with the post office and notify important contacts like employers, banks, and subscription services of your move. Finally, confirm moving arrangement and have a plan in place for the day of the move.

NEW HAMPSHIRE

LAKE SUNAPEE REGION

New London: 603.526.4050

LAKES REGION OF NH

Meredith: 603.677.7012

SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE

Bedford: 603.413.7600

MONADNOCK REGION

Peterborough: 603.924.3321

VERMONT

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY

South Burlington: 802.864.0541

CENTRAL VERMONT

Rutland: 802.774.7007

Killington: 802.746.4203

Stowe: 802.253.7267

SOUTHERN VERMONT

Mount Snow: 802.464.1200

Stratton: 802.297.8000

Manchester: 802.362.4551

Okemo: 802.228.4537

UPPER VALLEY

Hanover: 603.643.6070

HUDSON VALLEY

Kingston: 845.331.3100

Rhinebeck: 845.876.5100

Tivoli: 845.757.5000

Woodstock: 845.684.0084

Hudson: 518.822.0800

WESTERN NEW YORK

Buffalo: 716.320.1414

Rochester: 585.394.7111

NEW YORK SALES OFFICES

OWL’S NEST RESORT: 603.779.5758

UPSTATE NEW YORK

Saratoga Springs: 518.580.8500

Lake George: 518.644.9500

Lake Placid: 518.523.2550

CENTRAL NEW YORK

Syracuse: 315.685.8100

Thousand Islands Region: 315.685.8100

Finger Lakes Region: 315.685.8100

NORTHEAST KINGDOM

St. Johnsbury: 802.751.7582

UPPER VALLEY

Fairlee: 802.333.4701

MASSACHUSETTS

CONNECTICUT

JAY PEAK RESORT: 802.858.535

WINDHAM MOUNTAIN CLUB: 518.734.0040

We unlock the door to your best life.