AFTER THE CONTRACT IS SIGNED

The Earnest Money Contract (EMC) is signed.

2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.

The Realtor® Associate will “open title” at the title company named in the Earnest Money Contract, and the title company will deposit the earnest money check. If the amount of the earnest money is greater than $5,000, and will be held for an extended period of time, you may request it be placed in an interest bearing account.

Seller receives Option Fee as per terms of EMC and deposits.

Buyer schedules property inspections and contacts insurance agent, paying close attention to the Option Period, if applicable, as defined in the EMC.

Buyer makes loan application with their selected mortgage lender according to the time specified in the EMC and delivers documentation requested by lender.

The mortgage lender will begin processing the loan by: a. ordering an appraisal of the property; and b. verifying prior loan history, employment and financial position.

Simultaneously with the loan processing, the title company will research the title and send their title commitment to the buyer, seller, Realtor® Associates, attorneys, and mortgage lender.

The title company will act as a neutral 3rd party, escrow agent and title insurer. The escrow agent will coordinate with all entities to receive the following information for closing: a. invoices and loan documents from the buyer’s mortgage lender b. buyer’s hazard insurance from the buyer’s insurance agent c. tax certificates d. survey

Once the buyer’s loan and title are approved, the closing date is coordinated between all parties.

Buyer and seller contact utility companies to transfer service to buyer. Note: the seller does not turn off utilities until the home is sold.

The title company will prepare a closing statement with charges to both buyer and seller, usually available for review the day prior to closing.

Parties sign closing papers and title transfers from the seller to the buyer upon funding.

You and Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene n Gary Greene helps negotiate the offer. n Buyer and seller agree on price and conditions. n The buyer orders mechanical and general inspections. n The listing or selling agent sends signed earnest money contract to title company. n Buyer makes loan application (if applicable).