PHASE ONE1
The initial consultation is an essential stage of the buying process. This discovery phase enables a deep dive into your preferences and unique requirements, laying the foundation for a customized and effective purchase strategy tailored to your needs.
THE CONSULTATION
During the consultation we will assess your position in the market, strategize our approach, and plan the best course of action.
ASSESS
TIMING
FINANCIALS
MARKET CONDITIONS
OWNERSHIP GOALS
PHASE I THE CONSULTATION
PROPERTY NEEDS
FUNDS REQUIRED
LOCATION NEEDS & WANTS
PROPERTY WANTS
CONTINGENCIES
THE TIMELINE
PHASE I THE CONSULTATION
PHASE TWO2
During your home search we will also explore off-market opportunities, while leveraging our market knowledge and expertise. Our aim is to cover all aspects, from pros and cons, short and long-term goals, and risk mitigation strategies.
THE HOME SEARCH
With a focus on your schedule and preferences, we’re dedicated to crafting a personalized experience that aligns with your real estate needs.
HOME SEARCH
ONLINE
In Houston and surrounding areas, the primary hub for home listings and information is HAR.com, the customer-facing portal of the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Listings on HAR.com are the most current and comprehensive, feeding into other major platforms like Zillow.com, Realtor.com and brokerage websites like GaryGreene.com. For the best and most up-to-date listings, HAR.com is the go-to source.
ONLINE SEARCH ALERTS
Once we establish your preferences, I will set you up for personalized search alerts within the MLS system. This means you’ll receive immediate notifications of new properties matching your criteria and relevant updates such as status changes or price adjustments. These alerts ensure you remain informed and current in the competitive real estate market.
FOR SALE BY OWNER
“For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) means the homeowner is lising the property directly, without the assistance of a real estate agent. If you find yourself interested in a FSBO, I will be able to facilitate the process and ensure your interests are protected throughout the transaction.
OPEN HOUSES
When attending an open house, it’s important to let the hosting agent know that you are represented. This ensures a smoother process and allows me to negotiate on your behalf, with your best interest in mind, if you’re planning to make an offer.
BUILDERS | NEW CONSTRUCTION
When exploring model homes and engaging with builders for new construction options, it’s crucial to have representation to ensure your interests are safeguarded throughout the process. When viewing model homes, etc. - it’s important to let the sales manager know you are represented.
OFF-MARKET
If you come across potential off-market homes through friends, family, or word of mouth, it’s essential to protect your interests. I can ensure the necessary due diligence is conducted, negotiations are handled professionally, and your interests are safeguarded throughout the transaction.
OFF MARKET & RELOCATION OPPORTUNITIES
With our internal communication platform GNET, we have a distinct advantage in the market, allowing us to share listings among our extensive network of over 900 agents before they even hit the MLS. This means you’ll have access to these properties before they become widely available, giving you a competitive edge in finding your dream home. Moreover, our agents leverage GNET to connect buyer needs with potential sellers who may not have listed their properties yet, further expanding your options and opportunities in the market.
5.5K+
2023 TOTAL GARY GREENE HOME SELL TRANSACTIONS
900+ GARY GREENE AGENTS
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene remains the oldest relocation brokerage in Houston. We have been relocating buyers and sellers in and out of the Greater Houston area since 1970. We are proud to be a principal broker in the Anywhere Leads Network (formerly Cartus Network), the industry leader in global mobility. We are also extremely proud of our network affiliations with over 60 other relocation management companies. Our reach covers the Greater Houston area and surrounding markets.
9,500+
RELOCATION BUYERS, SELLERS, & RENTERS HELPED SINCE 2019
We actively participate in major mobility organizations and are consistently selected as a broker for group moves such as ExxonMobil, XTO Entergy, Shell, Sabic, Westlake Chemical, Mckesson
SHOWINGS
01
SEAMLESS SHOWING PROCESS
With a focus to streamline the showing process, we will coordinate appointments, handle scheduling complexities, and optimize property tours for an efficient and hassle-free experience.
MARKET KNOWLEDGE
Working with an agent equipped with extensive market knowledge provides invaluable insights, enabling informed decisions and maximizing opportunities tailored to your ownership goals.
EXCLUSIONS & INCLUSIONS
It’s crucial to grasp the nuances of what’s included and excluded in a property. As a skilled buyer’s agent, I help clients navigate these intricacies, ensuring you have a full understanding to make an informed decision
RISK MITIGATION
Partnering with a buyer’s agent during the home search mitigates risks, whether related to location or property specifics, by leveraging their expertise to identify potential pitfalls.
PROS/CONS
During the home search we will discuss the sometimes subtle - yet significant - pros and cons of a property with your ownership goals always in mind.
SHORT/LONG TERM
In addition to highlighting the pros and cons of each property we will consider each property as it relates to your long and short term goals.
SHOWING & ACCESSIBILITY
The significance of having an accessible buyer’s agent during the home search process cannot be overstated. It ensures consistent availability to address your inquiries, schedule viewings, and provide expert guidance at any time. Allowing you to navigate the market with confidence.
PHASE THREE 3
During the offer phase we will carefully evaluate market comparables and trends, utilize our knowledge of the appraisal process, consider lending requirements, and focus on risk mitigation to help you make informed decisions during this critical process.
THE OFFER
Coupling our stellar reputation for business ethics and professionalism with a strategically crafted offer, your offer will be received by the seller and positioned for success.
COMPETITIVE MARKET ANALYSIS
A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is a crucial tool, offering insights into property values based on recent sales and listings in your desired area. By examining comparable properties in terms of size, location, condition, and amenities, you can gauge the fair market value of homes you’re considering.
This analysis takes into account various factors such as comparable properties, which help buyers understand how similar homes are priced and what features contribute to their value.
Additionally, market conditions play a significant role in the CMA, reflecting trends like supply and demand, interest rates, and economic factors that influence property prices.
Not all CMAs are created equal. Our expertise and deep market knowledge ensure that you receive the most accurate and insightful analysis, empowering you to make informed decisions with confidence.
OWNERSHIP GOALS
It’s crucial to ask the necessary questions to ensure the property aligns with your ownership goals. This proactive approach fosters clarity and helps tailor the offer to ensure the property meets your needs.
FINANCING
Before submitting an official offer, it’s crucial to secure financing pre-approval. Doing so demonstrates readiness, strengthens negotiating position, and ensures a smoother transaction process post-acceptance. It’s also important to verify all related costs align with your budgetary expectations.
DUE DILIGENCE
Performing due diligence before submitting an offer is paramount to ensuring informed decision-making and mitigating potential risks.
One crucial aspect of this process is reviewing the seller’s disclosure statement thoroughly to learn of any disclosed material defects or issues with the property.
Connecting with an insurance agent early in the process is also essential to assess the insurability of the home and estimate the cost of insurance coverage. Insurance costs are an important consideration as it’s an on going expense throughout the time you own the property. This step helps provide clarity to any potential insurance-related expenses and ensures you are adequately prepared without facing unexpected surprises.
STRUCTURING THE OFFER
PRICING
In determining the offer price, we consider the CMA to ensure it aligns with market trends and reflects fair value. Additionally, we carefully assess the down payment amount based on your financing options and preferences.
TIMING GOALS
When structuring an offer on a home, we meticulously consider timeline and closing dates to ensure they align with your preferences and logistical requirements.
OPTION PERIOD & FUNDS
Negotiating the length of the option period and the corresponding option fee is crucial as it provides you with a feasible time frame to conduct thorough inspections and assessments.
EARNEST MONEY
Negotiating the amount of earnest money is vital as it demonstrates the seriousness of your intent and strengthens the offer. A buyer’s agent with working knowledge of local trends is valuable in working with you to present a competitive offer.
APPRAISAL ADDENDUM & CONTINGENCIES
Negotiating the terms of the appraisal addendum is invaluable for you as a home buyer, as it helps ensure that the property is accurately valued. Additionally, the terms can be used to better position you in a competitive landscape. Working with a buyer’s agent, who is current on appraisal trends, ensures you have the insight you need to set clear expectations for potential outcomes.
INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
Considering all inclusions and exclusions in the offer to the seller is crucial as it ensures that the transaction aligns with your preferences and needs. Items like refrigerators, washers, dryers, mounted televisions, draperies, etc. could either be excluded or included in the sale based on standard practice or noted by the seller.
SELLER CONCESSIONS
Another crucial aspect of the offer is negotiating any seller concessions, as they can significantly impact the overall terms of the transaction, providing buyers with potential financial benefits. Working with a buyer’s agent who communicates optios with your lender ensures you arrive at your desired financial outcome and prevents surprises with your financing.
PRESENT & NEGOTIATE
We then draft, present, and negotiate the offer on your behalf, utilizing our expertise to ensure the terms are favorable and aligned with your goals.
PHASE FOUR 4
During the under-contract phase, inspections are conducted, repairs are negotiated, and both lending and insurance requirements are completed.
UNDER-CONTRACT
Prior to closing, the title commitment is received and reviewed, the survey is evaluated, funds are delivered, and a final walk-through ensures the property meets agreed-upon conditions before closing.
UNDER-CONTRACT TIMELINE
OPTION
OPTION PERIOD
The option period allows for inspections and assessments of the property, providing you with the flexibility to proceed with or withdraw from the purchase without forfeiting earnest money.
BEWARE OF WIRE FRAUD
APPRAISAL PERIOD
The appraisal period involves the assessment of the property’s value by a licensed appraiser to determine if the property meets or exceeds the agreed-upon purchase price.
Fulfill Lender Requirements
Fulfill Insurance Requirements
Conduct Appraisal Process
Repair Verification
Warranty Transfers
Resolve Title Requirements
PRE-CLOSING
Prior to closing, we’ll thoroughly review the closing statement, confirm the final funds have been delivered to the title company, and perform a detailed walk-through to ensure accurate accounting of all exclusions and inclusions of the sale.
Closing Statement Review
Walk-Thru
PHASE FIVE5
The closing, typically taking place at a title company, is the finalization of the transaction, where all clsoing paperwork is signed, funds are exchanged, and ownership of the property is transferred from the seller to the buyer.
CLOSING
This final step involves meticulous attention to detail to ensure a smooth transition, marking the exciting moment when the keys are handed over, and the buyer becomes the proud owner of their new home.
CLOSING CHECKLIST
BEFORE
SCHEDULE UTILITIES - All essential utilities (water, electric, gas) should be activated in your name on the day of closing. Electricity is deregulated in Texas, so you can choose your own provider. Powertochoose.org is a resource that allows you to compare various providers, rates, and plans. We can also provide access to an exclusive concierge program for electricity, home security, internet, phone, television, water, and gas.
SCHEDULE MOVERS - It’s advisable to not schedule movers to unload until 2-3 days after the closing date to allow sufficient time for the transaction to officially close. Depending on the timing of signatures and funds delivery, there may be delays in obtaining the keys and access to the property.
USPS MAIL FORWARDING - Complete mail forwarding sign up online at moversguide.usps.com.
W IRE FUNDS TO TITLE COMPANY - If choosing to wire the funds needed for closing, complete the transfer at least the day before closing.
Before sending any funds, call the title company directly using a known number (not a number or link from email) to confirm wiring instructions to safeguard from fraud.
PHASE V CLOSING
DURING
BRING VALID PHOTO ID - Any identification needs to be current and not expired.
BRING CASHIER’S CHECK - If choosing to bring a check instead of wiring funds, the check must be a cashier’s check made out to the title company. This should be in-hand before the day of closing in case of any unforeseen banking delays.
BRING CHECKBOOK - Just in case of a minimal dollar discrepancy between the preliminary and final closing statement.
AFTER
CHANGE ADDRESS ON DRIVERS LICENSE - Visit txt.texas.gov to update DL and vehicle registration addresses. If you are not currently a Texas resident you will need to go in person to a DPS location.
FILE HOMESTEAD PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONIf this is to be your primary residence, you can file a homestead exemption and receive a tax benefit.
OPEN ALL MAIL 6-8 WEEKS AFTER CLOSING - You can anticipate receiving your recorded deed in the mail after closing. Additionally, your lender may sell your loan to another provider and your loan documents would also be sent via mail.
BEWARE OF SCAMS - If a third party entity tries to sell you a service (document filing, etc.) please reach out to me to confirm if the service is needed or required.