BUYERS PRESENTATION
Yibekal Kassa Cell: (206) 919-2041 Office: (425) 771-6444 kassa@kassahomes.com www.KassaHomes.com
MY PASSION My business philosophy is that every client deserves diligent work, detailed follow-through, clear communication, and a high-class real estate experience. I do this by asking good questions, listening passionately, evaluating what I learn, and presenting options that help my clients move towards their goals as effectively as possible. Living and working as a licensed realtor® with Coldwell Banker Bain; what is better than a different daily workplace in Lynnwood and the surrounding areas, touring, showing, negotiating contracts, analyzing the home market in our communities, and just meeting interesting, unique people every single day! It’s mesmerizing - everything from viewing properties, building rapport with a new client, leading to a lengthy, trusting relationship simply based on my core values and genuine affection for this career. It’s exhilarating. I’ve developed a deep understanding of its neighborhoods, homes, and the wonderful people who live in our community. It’s a valuable resource for the clients who choose to work with me. I’ve been completely obsessed with real estate the past seventeen years as all my friends and family I’m sure will agree. It all started with the purchase of my first home in 2004 and continued with owning and managing my investment property. Then extended with remodeling multiple kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Throughout all this, what excites me the most is using my personal experience and knowledge of finding the right home and location for the right buyer or helping a seller create a comprehensive, innovative marketing plan for their home, making sure that all potential buyers are exposed so they can receive top dollars for the house they are selling. MY COMMITMENT My commitment is to deliver results. To accomplish this, I am convinced it is initiated by educating myself about my buyers’ and sellers’ wants and needs. I believe strongly that it is not only my duty to represent my client to the best of my ability, but also to educate them through every step of the process armed with top-notch information and market insight so they can make the decision that will turn the goal into reality. It is my duty to help clients buy (or sell) a great house that’s just what they need for the next chapter of their life. If you or someone you know is a potential buyer or seller who could benefit from my extensive neighborhood knowledge (and track record of success), I encourage you to pass my contact information along. I can be reached either by phone, email, text, or whatever medium you prefer. After all, a quality agent isn’t easy to find. Thank you and I look forward to showing you the way home!
Vison To be the real estate broker of choice in the local market.
Misson To always practice and radiate my core values of honesty, courtesy, fairness, and respect. My clients’ interests always come first.
Values • Honesty and Integrity: Always do what is right, fair, and ethical • Communication: Share appropriate information in an honest and open manner • Respect: Be considerate of others through the use of appropriate behavior • Quality: Strive for professional excellence to the highest standards possible consistent with the goals of the transaction • Attitude: Positive, enthusiastic, and have a vibrant spirit • Accountability: Responsible for MY actions and understand their impact on others • Customer Satisfaction: Strive to exceed the expectations of my clients
Awards • 2017 Rookie of the Year • 2018 International Sterling Society • 2019 International Diamond Society • 2020 International President Circle
Reasons Why My Clients Refer Me to Friends and Family and co-workers: • Extensive market knowledge
• Help you prepare your home for sale
• Client-focused approach
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• Trusted advisor of your best interests
• Prepare all the paperwork involved in the sale of your home, including disclosure documents
• Timely and effective communicator • Attention to detail • Savvy negotiation skills • Strong marketing strategies
Work on your behalf to sell your home
• Negotiate for the price, terms, and conditions that are agreeable to you • Create a comprehensive, innovative marketing plan for your home - making sure that all potential buyers are exposed to it
• Research comparable properties to determine a fair price and terms
My Services Include: • Seller’s Representative
• Investment Property Advisor
• Buyer’s Representative
• Local Real Estate Market Expertise and Guidance
• First-Time Home Buyer Educator
• Real Estate Professional Referrals (for those moving to another state or country)
Credentials • Washington State Licensee
• WR (Washington Association of Realtors)
• Member, Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS)
• SCCAR (Snohomish County-Camano Association of REALTORS®)
• NAR (National Association of Realtors)
Making your dream home a reality.
TESTIMONIALS “This was our first time buying a home and Kassa made it wonderfully easy for us. If you are looking for an agent Kassa is the perfect fit. He answered all our questions with detail and thoughtfulness, he is incredibly professional and always on time. He was always honest with us and is extremely organize. He treated us like family and made the experience far more enjoyable. We are more than eager to recommend Kassa to everyone who is looking into buying a home. There truly aren’t enough words to express our appreciation, thanks to Kassa we were finally able to purchase our dream home. Thank you so much!!!” - Woineshet A.
“This is the 3rd time we’ve used Kassa. Kassa is very patient, knowledgeable, on top of everything and of course friendly. As you all know always a rush on the closing date but Kassa makes sure no delay on the closing date. I’m so proud to call Kassa is “MY AGENT” and of course we will contact Kassa again on our next purchase. Once again, thank you very much for your services” - Phong Ding
“Kassa is one of a kind. He is so respectful and extremely passionate about what he does. Kassa gives 1000 percent of his time and attention to his customers. He is straight forward and honest. I strongly recommend Kassa homes with zero hesitation. I assure you that you will get the best service and get connected with your dream home in no time. Kassa, keep up the good work and thank you for being a true inspiration to many of us. Proud to know you and thank you for your service.” - Ethiopia Negash
WE OFFER THE FIRST SERVICE GUARANTEE IN THE INDUSTRY
BUYER SERVICES GUARANTEE We strive to fairly, honestly and ethically act as your agent in the home-buying process. However, should Coldwell Banker Bain not perform our services as stated, you are entitled, upon written notice, to terminate our Buyer Agency representation. That’s our promise to you, and it’s an industry first.
MY COMMITMENT The steps to buy a house might seem complicated—particularly if you’re a first-time home buyer trying to purchase real estate for the very first time. Between down payments, credit scores, mortgage rates (both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate), property taxes, interest rates, and closing the deal, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. There’s so much at stake with a first home! As your buyer agent, I am committed to providing my experience, education and expertise to follow these 10 steps of the buying process to help you make the best decisions possible.
1
Start Your Research
2
Find the Right Real Estate Agent
3 4
Find Your Lender and Get Pre-approved for Your Mortgage Determine How Much House You Can Afford
5
Shop for Your Home and Make an Offer
6
Get a Home Inspection
7
Have the Home Appraised
8 9
Work with a Mortgage Banker to Get Final Approval Coordinate with Escrow to Sign Paperwork
10
Close on Your Home and Move
FINDING THE RIGHT HOME
LISTEN Only you know your needs in a home. So it’s my job to listen carefully and to fully understand your needs as we begin our search.
COMMUNICATE Keeping you informed on availability, market trends, status of homes in your search and many other things is critical to a sucessful home purchase. That’s why I value open communication.
PLAN Outlining the steps we need to take to prepare for a successful transaction. From pre-qualifiying to the closing table, I will assist you every step of the way.
FIND A LENDER & GET PRE-APPROVED Having a pre-approved loan amount is a fantastic place to start your road to home ownership. It provides a benchmark for what you can comfortably afford and will allow us to quickly narrow your home search. If you are uncertain about which lender to use, ask us. As brokers, we generally have a good relationship with one or more lenders and can help you find one who will address your needs and get you the best loan terms available.
LISTEN TO YOUR LENDER Your lender will give you specific instructions on getting your finances in order so your closing will go smoothly. Make sure you follow these instructions to avoid delays in closing or possibly losing out on a property.
ASK QUESTIONS There are many special financing programs available to home buyers. Ask your lender and me if there are programs that you may qualify for. From special veteran programs to rehabilitation loans, your lender will be able to tell you what is available. Be sure to ask about any restrictions that may apply to special programs.
LOCATION The only thing better than finding your ideal home is finding your ideal home in the ideal location. Schools, commute to work, proximity to restaurants and activities, views and distances to recreation are all things to consider when deciding on location. Share as much information with us as you can about your ideal location.
YOUR IDEAL HOME Do you dream of a Craftsman with hardwood floors or a modern condo with the latest smart home technology? Whatever your taste, your perfect home is out there and I will help you find it. Beyond the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, share your ideal home features. From garden space to off street parking, each detail is important to note in your search request. The more information you provide, the easier it will be to narrow your search and find homes that are viable options.
UNDERSTANDING THE SALE PRICE There are several factors that affect the price sellers ask for their homes. Understanding these factors is important when trying to evaluate the asking price. Physical characteristics of the home: Location, age, size of home and lot, physical condition and architectural style are all factors to consider. Market condition and competition: Inventory, days on market, interest rates, qualified buyer demand, health of the economy and availability of financing can all affect the strength of the market and home prices. Other factors to consider are the time of the year, the sellers motivation and economic forecasts.
UNDERSTANDING THE MARKET One of the best ways to get a full understanding of your market is with a comparative market analysis. Comparing the sold price of comparable homes, as well as the number of days on market, the sold vs. list price and facts about properties that did not sell will give you insight to the value of the property you are considering. As a well-informed, educated and experienced broker, I am able to make sense of this information and help you determine if you should move forward on a property and how you should position your offer.
SUBMITTING THE OFFER Making the right offer the first time could mean the difference between having your offer accepted, getting a counter offer from the seller, or losing out to a competing offer. It is also very important to make sure you understand 100% of the terms of your offer. The legal terms in real-estate contracts can sometimes be confusing. I will help you avoid common mistakes and guide you through the process to a successful offer.
KNOWLEDGE is the best defensE against regrets
NEGOTIATING Rarely does an offer get accepted the first time around. In a competitive market it is very important to draw on the knowledge of an experienced broker. Sellers typically make a counter offer if they are unsatisfied with an initial offer. Knowing when to bend or when to stand firm on your offer is a skill that requires essential knowledge and experience. With my negotiating skills, experience and knowledge, you will be able to know when and how to make a good counter offer and also when to walk away from the deal.
THEY ACCEPTED YOUR OFFER! After a brief celebration, we will need to get to work to ensure a smooth closing. There are several potential items that will be required to close the transaction. Among these are: 1. Open escrow 2. Order title report 3. Provide additional documentation to lender 4. Send the contract to your lender 5. Home inspection 6. Negotiate inspection items 7. Set closing time
CLOSING The final inspection and closing disclosure statement are complete. By now it should be down to a few simple tasks: 1. Executing the mortgage documents 2. Settle closing expenses and escrow items 3. Receive closing documents 4. Recording of the deed and ownership transfer
YOUR GUIDE TO THE REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION
A real estate deal is generally a long and stressful exercise that involves many steps and procedural formalities. Closing occurs when you sign the papers that make the house yours, but before that fateful day arrives, a long list of things has to happen. These few pages describe the 18 steps that must be taken between the moment your offer is accepted and when you get the keys to your new home. To help you feel more comfortable with the homebuying process, I’ve outlined the house-closing timeline. As you read through each of these steps, keep in mind that many of them will be taking place simultaneously. Do your best to stay organized to keep on top of any deadlines that may come your way.
KEY TAKEAWAYS •
Real estate deals are generally completed over a span of weeks and have many moving part
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Deals start with opening an escrow account and end with a final walkthrough before signing on the dotted line.
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The complexity of real estate closings is a good reason to hire a real estate agent to guide you through the process.
Yibekal Kassa, BROKER COLDWELL BANKER BAIN | LYNNWOOD Cell: (206) 919-2041 | Office: (425) 771-6444 kassa@kassahomes.com | www.KassaHomes.com
18 STEPS TO A REAL ESTATE CLOSING STEP ONE: Submitting an offer Some sellers will have an offer-review date, while others will be open to any offers that come in. When you’re ready, your agent will help you determine how much to offer and which contingencies to include. To determine your initial offer price, ask your agent for a comparative market analysis (CMA). A CMA will show the list and final sale prices for similar homes that recently sold in that area.
STEP Two: What is “mutual acceptance” in real estate? Mutual acceptance is the point at which both the buyer and seller agree on the price and terms of a deal and a binding contract is entered into. In most states, the Purchase and Sale Agreement is signed at mutual acceptance.
STEP Three: Earnest Money Within 1 to 2 days after the seller accepts an offer on a home, the buyer will deliver their earnest money to a title or escrow company, which will hold it during the transaction. Earnest money, also referred to as the Good Faith Deposit, is typically 1%–3% of the sale price of the home and is applied toward the buyer’s closing costs. If the buyer backs out of the deal for anything not covered by a contingency, they will likely forfeit their earnest money.
STEP four: Escrow Escrow is a neutral third party or attorney that handles the exchange of money and documents in compliance with the Purchase and Sale Agreement and any escrow instructions. Escrow handles the transfer of the buyer’s loan documents and property taxes and works with a buyer’s lender and real estate agent to make sure the title of the home is clear of liens before the transfer of ownership.
STEP FIve: Loan Application Buyer full loan application due within 5 days after mutual (Lender should send you a Loan Estimate & Lock Rates)
What is a loan estimate?
A Loan Estimate is a three-page form created by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) that provides a borrower with important details about a loan the borrower has applied for, including an estimate of the interest rate, monthly payment amount, and total closing costs. If the loan has special features, such as early payment penalties or increases in mortgage loan balances, the form will also include these details. The lender is required to provide a borrower with this form within 3 business days after receipt of the loan application. All lenders are required to use the same Loan Estimate form, making it easier for borrowers to compare mortgage loans. The Loan Estimate is not an approval or denial of a loan application, but shows a borrower the terms the lender expects to offer if the borrower decides to move forward with the loan.
Loan Lock-in Rate
A lock-in, also known as a rate lock, is a lender’s guarantee to provide a borrower a certain interest rate and loan terms for a specified period of time. This is an important step in the process of getting a mortgage. It’s best to lock in at the lowest rate possible. A borrower needs to inform the lender when the borrower wants to lock in a rate once the loan is approved. Once a borrower locks a rate, the lender may offer a float-down option if rates continue to decrease before the loan is approved. This means the borrower could lock in at an even lower rate, but the lender may require the borrower to pay more up front in discount point fees.
STEP six: Inspection An inspection is a thorough investigation of a home by a licensed inspector. Once an offer is accepted (mutual acceptance), the buyer’s agent will usually provide the buyer with a list of recommended inspectors and then facilitate scheduling the inspection. A thorough inspection is necessary to discover any material defects or necessary repairs before buying the home. The inspector may also recommend an additional inspection of the roof, sewage system, or other part of the house by a specialist.
STEP seven: Title Review Title is the right to, or ownership of, a specific real estate property. Buyers get a preliminary title report from an escrow agent or attorney within a week after they reach mutual acceptance on an offer. The report identifies all parties with a legal claim to the property, what items need to be cleared from title before the new buyer can take possession, and if there are any recorded easements or encroachments on the property. Once the transaction closes, the buyers will receive a final title policy recording their names as the new legal owners, along with the amount of title insurance. This information is part of a county’s public records.
STEP eight: HOA Review (Homeowners Association), if applicable A homeowner’s association (HOA) is a nonprofit organization that manages a shared housing complex, such as condos, co-ops, and other planned developments. All owners within the complex will usually be members of the HOA, and an elected HOA board will be responsible for enforcing the community rules and providing building maintenance. Most of these rules are contained in the HOA Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs), which a buyer usually receives within one week after the buyer’s offer is accepted. The HOA provides funding for repairs, grounds maintenance, and security by collecting money from homeowners, usually in the form of monthly dues.
STEP nine: Appraisal An appraisal is a licensed appraiser’s opinion of a home’s market value based on comparable recent sales of homes in the neighborhood. Appraisals are usually ordered on behalf of a buyer’s lender to protect the interests of the lender. The lender’s underwriter will compare the appraisal price to the final purchase price of the home to ensure the buyer is not borrowing more than the house is worth. If the home appraises lower than the final sale price, the buyer may be able to renegotiate a lower price with the seller. If the seller won’t lower the price, the buyer’s lender may ask that the buyer put more money toward the down payment in order to make up the difference.
STEP ten: Homeowners Insurance Homeowners insurance is a combination of property insurance, which protects homeowners from future damages to a home, and liability insurance, which protects homeowners from claims by third parties for accidents that happen in the home. The form of the policy will vary depending on the type of property being insured (e.g. condominium, mobile home, single-family residence, etc.) and the amount of coverage the owner desires. Lenders require that buyers obtain homeowners insurance so insurance premiums will automatically be included in monthly mortgage payments and the transaction closing costs.
STEP eleven: Underwriting Approval Your lender will create a loan file and send it to an underwriter. The underwriter will review the entire loan package and make sure all requirements are met. Sometimes the underwriter may request additional documentation from you. If this is the case, it’s important that you submit the documents as quickly as possible. Once underwriting is complete, your loan is considered approved and your closing date will be scheduled.
STEP Twelve: Closing Disclosure (CD) A Closing Disclosure is a final statement of loan terms and closing costs that the lender must provide to the borrower at least three business days before closing in most transactions that involve a loan. The statement lists the loan terms, projected monthly payments, cash necessary to close the sale, and a detailed accounting of the closing costs. The three-day review period allows the borrower time to review the Closing Disclosure and compare it with the Loan Estimate, which the borrower should have received when he or she applied for the loan. Learn more about how the closing process works.
STEP Thirteen: Final Walk-Through
A few days before you sign the documents to finalize your purchase of the home, you’ll have the chance to take one last look through the property. It’s your last chance to make sure that everything with the house is in order, and that no new issues have cropped up since the inspection.
STEP fourteen: Buyers Signing Appointment When all of the contract terms and lending conditions are satisfied, a buyer and seller will be contacted in order to “sign” at the escrow office. Signing occurs once an escrow officer has received all of the lender’s loan documents, and prepared the settlement sheet, deed and related paperwork. Each party may have several papers to sign, and this can take up to an hour or more to finish. Once the loan funds have been dispersed and the deed paperwork has been recorded at the county recorder’s office, the transfer of the home is complete.
STEP fifteen: Buyer Wiring Cash Close One of the final steps in the closing process is to submit a cashier’s check or wire for your down payment and closing costs to escrow. Typically, the buyer pays expenses like settlement fees, lender fees, and title insurance.
STEP sixteen: Bank Funding Process The term “fund” refers to the process of wiring or releasing money from a mortgage lender to title or escrow prior to closing a real estate transaction. Funding often occurs a day or two before closing, and you can’t close unless and until it happens. The process of funding a loan typically doesn’t take place until all the loan documents have been signed and all the funding conditions have been satisfied. A homebuyer often signs loan documents a few days before the actual closing.
STEP seventeen: Recording Recording is the act of putting a real estate document into the official records at the County Recorders or Recorder of Deeds Office. Usually, the types of documents that are recorded affect title to real property such as a deed, mortgage, easement, judgment, lien, foreclosure, or request for notice of default. These types of documents should be recorded with the recorder’s office in the county where the real estate is located.
STEP eighteen: Possession Close of Escrow” refers to the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer. This type of transfer is the norm with most home sales. When the sale is recorded with the local government, and the purchase funds have been received by the seller, ownership of the home is transferred to the buyer and the buyer has the right to possess the home.
Welcome to your new home! You will typically get the keys after 5 pm on your close date.
FIND A LENDER & GET APPROVED
Getting financing that works for you in the long run starts with picking the right lender. Lenders help finance your home by loaning money to you. The best lenders educate you and help you make an informed choice.
RECOMMENDED LOAN OFFICERS If you are uncertain about which lender to use, ask us. As brokers, we generally have a good relationship with one or more lenders and can help you find one who will address your needs and get you the best loan terms available
Tigest Bililign
Richard Hobson
Evergreen Home Loans (206) 267-8699 tbililign@evergreenhomeloans.com 2265 1st Ave S Seattle, WA 98134
Axia Home Loans (206) 834-5389 richard.hobson@axiahomeloans.com 1661 East Olive Way Seattle, WA 98102
Yibekal Kassa, BROKER COLDWELL BANKER BAIN | LYNNWOOD Cell: (206) 919-2041 | Office: (425) 771-6444 kassa@kassahomes.com | www.KassaHomes.com
Daniel Mery
American Pacific Mortgage (206) 499-9855 daniel.mery@apmortgage.com 301 116th Ave SE #200 Bellevue, WA 98004
YOUR PATH TO FINANCING
Having your finances in order is the first step toward ensuring a successful home purchase. It’s best to get this process started right away to eliminate any surprises as we get closer to writing the winning offer.
The First Step to Buying Is To Speak With A Lender To Find Out Your Options What Price Home You Should Shop For, What Your Payments Will Be, The Pre-Approval Process. Etc.
In today’s volatile lending market, being pre-approved is a must. What is a pre-approval for a Home Loan? A pre-approval is generally a written statement from a lender stating the lender’s preliminary determination that a borrower would qualify for a particular loan amount under that lender’s guidelines. The determination and loan amount are based on income and credit information. Most pre-approval letters are good for 60 to 90 days. Once you are pre-approved, you are almost certain of getting a loan provided there are no major changes in your financial status (i.e. loss of job or lower credit scores). Once you’re pre-approved, it’s time to find the right property at the right price for you!
WHAT IS INVOLVED WITH GETTING PRE-APPROVED? POTENTIAL DOCUMENTS NEEDED? In order to obtain a pre-approval letter, you will need to contact a lender. You will typically be approved in 24 to 48 hours if you provide the lender with all the necessary paperwork.
Potential Documents Needed: • Previous two years W-2s. • Your recent pay-stubs for the past 30 days. • Most recent bank statements covering 60 days (all accounts and all pages). • Last two years tax return (all schedules). • Your checking or savings bank statements for the past two months (this will likely have your down payment funds in them as well). • Any long-term debt information (i.e. credit cards, auto loans, other mortgages, etc.). • Your statements for all your other assets (stocks, bonds, retirement accounts) for the last two months. • Rental agreement from all properties owned with 2 years of tax returns. • Previous two years 1099s. • Social Security award letter. • Pension award letter.
OTHER POTENTIAL DOCUMENTS NEEDED: If you are self-employed: Your business tax returns for the past two years in addition to your year-to-date profit and loss statement and year-to-date balance sheet. If you are receiving funds from a family member for a home you will need a gift letter from that family member and verification of that check being deposited in your account. • Copy of photo identification. • Copy of Social Security card(s). • Home address(es) for the previous two years. • Purchase and Sale Agreement. • Homeowners Insurance Agency/Company name and phone number. • Homeowners Association Contact Information. • Copy of most recent Mortgage Statement. • Copy of Permanent Resident Alien card(s). • Divorce Decree. • Child Support Order. • Bankruptcy Papers and Discharge Notice.
IMPROVE & MAINTAIN YOUR GOOD CREDIT SCORES: Most buyers are aware their credit scores or credit history play a major role in getting a mortgage. Although they are not the only criteria used to determine whether you will get a loan, the lower your scores the less likely it is that you will be approved for a loan by most lenders with the best interest rates. Below are some quick tips to improve your credit scores before you apply for a loan and maintain good scores during the buying process. • Never go over 30 days past due on any accounts. • Avoid applying for any new credit cards or increased limits on current cards. • Pay off and/or close out any unused credit cards. • Keep a low balance on all active credit accounts. • Do not apply for any loans that are not related to your home purchase (i.e. car loan). • Make sure all bills are paid on time or at least within the grace period. • Follow up on old accounts that may have been held with a past spouse or partner to make sure you are no longer on that account. • Talk to a mortgage broker before opening an account at a debt consolidation service and if you a lready have an account, consider closing it if at all possible. Although these services are very helpful to those struggling to manage their debt, they are often viewed poorly by lenders and can knock down your credit score by a considerable amount.
HOW TO GET A MORTGAGE
Not sure how to get a loan for a house? Here’s a step-by-step guide. Getting a home loan isn’t just a big step, it’s an entire staircase and it can take a long time to reach the top. There are times when the climb will feel dizzying, but knowing how to get a mortgage before you start can help you stay organized and feel more in control. Ready to learn what it takes? Here’s how to get a mortgage, step by step.
STEP One: Give yourself a financial checkup Before you set off to get a mortgage, make sure you’re financially prepared for homeownership. Do you have a lot of debt? Do you have enough saved for a down payment? What about closing costs? A home is a major purchase maybe the biggest one you’ll ever make so it’s no surprise that lenders really dig into borrowers’ finances before handing out house loans. If you’ve got substantial debt or don’t have much of a credit history, you may want to improve your financial health before applying for a mortgage. Having a pre-approved loan amount is a fantastic place to start your road to home ownership. It provides a benchmark for what you can comfortably afford and will allow us to quickly narrow your home search. The second phase of pre-approval is underwriter approval, an equal important part of the process we’ll discuss.
STEP TWO: Identify the right mortgage There are many types of house loans available. The one that’s best for you will depend on your financial situation and homeownership priorities. Here are some of the loan options you can consider:
Conventional or government-backed? • Conventional loans have stricter qualification requirements because they aren’t insured by the government. However, they are a good option for borrowers with strong credit. • FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. These loans can have more lenient credit score minimums and allow the use of gift money as part of the down payment. • VA loans are only available to active service members or veterans, and they’re backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. These loans often require no down payment. • USDA loans are a program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. These zero-down-payment home loans are for lower income borrowers who live in rural areas. • Jumbo loans are conventional loans for properties that exceed conforming loan limits.
Fixed or adjustable rate? • Fixed-rate mortgages are popular because the mortgage interest rate doesn’t change over the life of the loan. The rate to which you initially agree will be the rate you keep until you sell the home or refinance. • Adjustable-rate mortgages have low introductory rates that start out fixed, but then fluctuate upward. If you don’t plan to stay in the home long, an adjustable rate mortgage could yield savings.
Mortgage term? • A 30-year mortgage is the most common term. Monthly payments are generally smaller, but you’ll pay more interest over the life of the loan. • Shorter term house loans, like 10- or 15-year mortgages, are also available. You pay less interest, but monthly payments can be steep. Lenders may offer other options, such as 20 year mortgages, that fall somewhere in between
Down payment? • Some conventional loans can allow for a down payment as low as 3%, but if your down payment is less than 20%, you’ll also probably have to pay for private mortgage insurance. This monthly expense is typical on low-downpayment mortgages to protect lenders in case the borrower fails to repay their loan. Once you get up to 20% equity in the home, you can take steps to cancel your PMI. • Some government-backed home loans do not require a down payment, while others let you make lower down payments. Depending on the type of loan and the amount of your down payment, you’ll have different requirements for mortgage insurance.
STEP Three: Research mortgage lenders Look at multiple home loan lenders to find the one for you. There’s a wide array of lenders to consider, including traditional banks, online non-bank lenders and credit unions. If you’re looking for a particular type of mortgage, you may want to zero in on specialty lenders. For example, if you know you want a VA loan, a lender that focuses on working with military borrowers may best fit your needs. No matter what kind of loan you’re seeking, you’ll want to consider: • How you prefer to communicate with the lender. Do you want an in-person experience, or are you comfortable with phone calls, emails or even texts? • Whether any sample rates you’re shown include points. These fees are interest that’s paid upfront, lowering the rate. • What the minimum qualifications are. For example, knowing a lender’s minimum credit score or down payment can help you determine if you’re ready to apply for preapproval. • Whether the lender offers any unique programs that would fit your needs (for example, down payment assistance for first-time home buyers).
STEP Four: Submit your application and Get preapproved There are a couple of big advantages to getting a mortgage preapproval. One, it shows sellers that you can make a solid offer up to a specific price. Two, it helps you figure out what your mortgage will really cost, since you’ll get details on the rate, APR, fees and other closing costs. Even if you’ve been preapproved, you’ll have to submit your most recent financial information when you formally apply for a home loan. This can include: • W-2 forms from the past two years. • Pay stubs from the past 30 days. • Federal tax returns from the past two years. • Proof of other sources of income. • Recent bank statements. • Details on long-term debts such as car or student loans. • ID and Social Security number. • Documentation of sources for recent deposits in your bank accounts. • Documentation of any gifts or other funds used for your down payment.
There may be other kinds of documentation required, depending on the type of mortgage you’re getting. Nerdy tip: If you’re self-employed, you may have to provide extra proof of your financial stability, including having a higher credit score or large cash reserves, and possibly providing business tax returns. Within three days of receiving your application, your lender will give you an initial loan estimate, which includes: • How much the loan will cost. • Associated fees and closing costs, including information on which costs you can shop for. • Interest rate and APR.
Now that you know your real rate, you can decide whether to buy discount points. These are an upfront fee that lowers your rate by essentially prepaying interest. (If you opt to buy points, they’re included in your closing costs.) Points can be a good option if you plan on staying in your home for at least seven years.
STEP five: Begin the underwriting process Underwriting: Your lender will create a loan file and send it to an underwriter. The underwriter will review the entire loan package and make sure all requirements are met. Sometimes the underwriter may request additional documentation from you. If this is the case, it’s important that you submit the documents as quickly as possible. Once underwriting is complete, your loan is considered approved and your closing date will be scheduled.
What is an underwriter? An underwriter is an individual working for mortgage lenders who determines whether or not a borrower’s loan is approved. If a borrower gets a loan from a mortgage broker, the broker sends the loan documents to the lender’s underwriter. The underwriter evaluates the entire loan application, including the appraisal of the home, and decides whether to approve or decline the application based on the risk presented by the loan.
How to get underwriter approval Typically, an underwriter reviews a loan application after a buyer and seller have reached mutual acceptance. However, gaining underwriter approval before submitting an offer is a strategy that can increase the strength of a buyer’s offer, which can be helpful when going up against multiple offers. To get full underwriter approval, a buyer can request that a lender send their pre-approval documents to an underwriter who will review them as if the buyer were already under contract to buy a home. The buyer’s pre-approval letter will then be annotated with “full underwriter approval” that can be highlighted when presenting the offer. During the underwriting process, you’ll want to avoid making changes to your finances, such as switching jobs or taking out another line of credit. Same goes for large purchases that increase your debt. Increasing your debt can lower your credit score, which could make the loan costlier or even jeopardize your qualification.
STEP six: PREpare FOr closing Finally, your loan is approved! But you’ve got a few more steps to take before the process is complete. • Homeowner’s Insurance: Purchase homeowner’s insurance. Your lender will require you to do this. Shop around for the best policies. • Title Insurance: Buy a lender’s title insurance policy. And while it’s not required, it’s wise to also purchase owner’s title insurance. Both policies offer protection in case there are problems with the title to the property down the road. • Closing Disclosure: Review your updated loan estimate and closing disclosure. You’ll get this three days before the scheduled closing date. Compare these new documents to what you got when you were initially approved, so you can see if and how any costs have changed unexpectedly. • Lender Preparation of Documents: As soon as the loan is approved and all requirements of the lender have been met, the loan documents will be prepared. These documents will be sent to the escrow officer, and you will be asked to sign the documents. Your lender may require an impound account for tax installment payments, depending on the type of loan. Get funds for your cash to close. Depending on what your lender requires, you may need a cashier’s check from your bank or a wire transfer to pay the final closing costs. • Funding: Once you have signed the documents and they have been returned to the lender, the lender will review them and make sure that all conditions have been met and all of the documents have been signed correctly. When this is completed, they will “fund” your loan. (“Fund” means that the lender will give the title company the money by check or wire.) • Recordation: When the loan has been funded, the title company will record the Deed of Trust with the county in which the property is located (usually by the next day). Upon receipt of confirmation of the deed being recorded, title or escrow will then disburse monies to the appropriate parties. At this time, in most cases, your loan is considered complete.
And that’s it — you made it to the top, and the loan is yours. It’s finally time to move into your new home!
THE MORTGAGE Several factors affect your mortgage payment, which will often include the following: PRINCIPAL - The balance owed to the lender INTEREST - Based on your annual percentage rate (APR) TAXES - Property taxes INSURANCE - Property and liability PMI - Private mortgage insurance
HISTORY OF THE 30-YEAR FIXED INTEREST RATE 20 16.63% 15
10
5
0
3.99%
WHAT EACH PARTY DOES IN ESCROW
SELLER Provides executed deed. Provides evidence of pest inspections and any required repair work.
Because large sums of money move around in a real estate transaction, a trusted closing agent is required to ensure the contractual obligations of all parties are fulfilled. The safe exchange of proceeds and title are also executed at this time.
Provides other required documents such as tax receipts etc.
CLOSING/ ESCROW AGENT Orders title insurance Documents approvals on inspections Receives funds from buyer/lender Prorates taxes, rents etc. Disburses funds Records deed and documents Issues final closing statement
LENDER
BUYER
Prepares loan documents
Deposits required funds
Deposits loan proceeds with settlement agent
Arranges funds transfer from lender
Provides conditions for loan funds use
Approves inspections Fulfills conditions of sale
WHY TITLE INSURANCE IS IMPORTANT Protecting your investment in your home is critical. Title insurance offers you protection from unforseen claims against your property like: •
Forged deeds, mortgages, satisfactions, or releases
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Deed by person who is mentally incompetent
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Deed by person in a foreign country, vulnerable to challenge as incompetent, unauthorized, or defective under foreign laws
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Deed challenged as being given under fraud, undue influence or duress
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Deed signed by mistake (grantor did not know what was signed)
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Deed executed under falsified power of attorney
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Undisclosed divorce of one who conveys as sole heir of a deceased former spouse
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Deed affecting property of deceased person, not joining all heirs
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Deed recorded but not properly indexed so as to be locatable in the land records
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Undisclosed but recorded federal or state tax lien
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Undisclosed but recorded judgment or spousal/child support lien
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Undisclosed but recorded prior mortgage
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Undisclosed but recorded boundary, party wall, or setback agreements
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Misinterpretation of wills, deeds, and other instruments
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Discovery of later will after probate of first will
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Erroneous or inadequate legal descriptions
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Deed to land without a right of access to a public street or road
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Forged notarization or witness acknowledgment
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Deed not properly recorded (wrong county, missing pages or other contents, or without required payment)
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Deed to a purchaser from one who has previously sold or leased the same land to a third party under an unrecorded contract, where the third party is in possession of the premises
HOME INSPECTION
Before you buy a home, one of the things you should do is to have it checked out by a professional home inspector. Yes, we can hear your objection: “Buying a home is expensive enough as it is! Why would I choose to fork over hundreds more if I’m not required to? Home inspections provide an opportunity for a buyer to identify any major issues with a home before closing. Your first clue that a home inspection is important is that it can be used as a contingency in your contract with the seller. This contingency provides that if a home inspection reveals significant defects, you can back out of your purchase offer, free of penalty, within a specific timeframe. The potential problems a home can have must be pretty serious if they could allow you to walk away from such a significant contract.
RECOMMENDED home inspectors We generally have a good relationship with one or more Inspectors. Below is list of recommendations.
Win Home Inspection Scheduler: Stacey Williams Inspector: Jared Carman swilliams@wini.com (206) 351-3368
Coastline Home Inspections
Inspector: Rob Renfro 425-330-4140 coastlinehomeinspections@gmail.com www.coastlinehi.com
Yibekal Kassa, BROKER COLDWELL BANKER BAIN | LYNNWOOD Cell: (206) 919-2041 | Office: (425) 771-6444 kassa@kassahomes.com | www.KassaHomes.com
Action JAckson Sewer inspection
(425) 877-5601 www.actionjacksonplumbing.com
YOUR PATH TO INSPECTION
What a Home Inspection Covers Inspectors vary in experience, ability, and thoroughness, but a good inspector should examine certain home components and then produce a report covering their findings. The typical inspection lasts two to three hours, and you should be present for the inspection to get a firsthand explanation of the inspector’s findings and, if necessary, ask questions. Also, any problems the inspector uncovers will make more sense if you see them in person instead of relying solely on the snapshot photos in the report. The inspector should note: • Whether each problem is a safety issue, major defect, or minor defect • Which items need replacement and which should be repaired or serviced • Items that are suitable for now but that should be closely monitored An excellent inspector will even tell you about routine maintenance that should be performed, which can be a great help if you are a first-time homebuyer. While it is impossible to list everything, an inspector could check for, the following home inspection checklist for buyers should give you a general idea of what to expect.
Exterior Inspection The inspector will complete a full inspection of the outside of the structure. This will include climbing into any crawlspaces under the home and using a ladder to reach and inspect the roof and other items.
Exterior walls The inspector will check for damaged or missing siding, cracks, and whether the soil is in excessively close contact with the bottom of the house, which can invite wood-destroying insects. However, the pest inspector (yes, you might want to engage one of those too), not the home inspector, will check for actual damage from termites, etc. The inspector will let you know which problems are cosmetic and which could be more serious.
Foundation If the foundation is not visible, and it usually is not, the inspector will not be able to examine it directly. Still, they can check for secondary evidence of foundation issues, like cracks or settling.
Grading The inspector will let you know whether the grading slopes away from the house as it should. If it doesn’t, water could get into the house and cause damage, and you will need to either change the slope of the yard or install a drainage system.
Garage or Carport The inspector will test the garage door for proper opening and closing, check the garage framing if it is visible, and determine if it is properly ventilated (to prevent accidental carbon monoxide poisoning). If the water heater is in the garage, the inspector will make sure it is installed high enough off the ground to minimize the risk of explosion from gasoline fumes mingling with the heater’s flame.
Roof The inspector will check for areas where roof damage or poor installation could allow water to enter the home, such as loose, missing, or improperly secured shingles and cracked or damaged mastic around vents. They will also check the condition of the gutters. Home inspectors also do not specifically check for termite damage, mold, asbestos, or water contamination. If you are concerned about these issues, ask your inspector for a heads up if they suspect any of these problems.
Interior Inspection The inspector will also complete a thorough inspection of the interior of the home. He will inspect everything from the ceiling to the cabinets under the sink.
Plumbing The home inspector will check all faucets and showers, look for visible leaks and test the water pressure. They will also identify the kind of pipes the house has if any pipes are visible. The inspector may recommend a secondary inspection if the pipes are old to determine if or when they might need to be replaced and how much the work would cost. The inspector will also identify the location of the home’s main water shutoff valve.
Electrical The inspector will identify the kind of wiring the home has, test all the outlets, and make sure there are functional ground fault circuit interrupters (which can protect you from electrocution, electric shock, and electrical burns) installed in areas like the bathrooms, kitchen, garage and outdoors. They will also check your electrical panel for any safety issues and check your electrical outlets to ensure they do not present a fire hazard.
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) The inspector will look at your HVAC system to estimate the age of the furnace and air conditioner, determine if they function properly, and recommend repairs or maintenance. An inspector can also give you an idea of the age of the home’s ducting, whether it might have leaks, if your home has sufficient insulation to minimize your energy bills and whether there is any asbestos insulation.
Water Heater The home inspector will identify the age of the heater and determine if it is properly installed and secured. The inspector will also let you know what kind of condition it is in and give you a general idea of how many years it has left.
Kitchen Appliances The inspector will sometimes check kitchen appliances that come with the home to make sure they work, but these are not always part of the inspection. If you think you’ll want to keep them, be sure to ask which ones are omitted so that you can test them yourself.
Laundry Room The inspector will make sure the laundry room is properly vented. A poorly maintained dryer-exhaust system can be a serious fire hazard.
Fire Safety If the home has an attached garage, the inspector will make sure the wall has the proper fire rating and hasn’t been damaged in any way that would compromise its fire rating. They will also test the home’s smoke detectors.
Bathrooms The inspector will check for visible leaks, properly secured toilets, adequate ventilation, and other issues. If the bathroom does not have a window or a ventilation fan, mold and mildew can become problems, and moisture can warp wood cabinets over time. Some areas inspectors won’t look at include: • Inside walls (won’t cut open drywall or insulation) • Inside pipes or sewer lines • Inside chimneys • Behind electrical panels Furthermore, most home inspectors are generalists—that is, they can tell you that the plumbing might have a problem, but then they will recommend that you hire an expert to verify the issue and give you an estimate of the cost to fix it. Of course, hiring additional inspectors will cost extra money. Home inspectors also do not specifically check for termite damage, site contamination, mold, asbestos engineering problems, and other specialized problems. If they have reason to suspect, though, they’ll likely give you a heads up. Some inspectors offer radon testing as an add-on; some will recommend asbestos testing services if your home appears to be at risk.
After the Inspection Once you have the results of your home inspection, you have several options: • If the problems are too significant or too expensive to fix, you can choose to walk away from the purchase as long as the purchase contract has an inspection contingency. • F or problems large or small, you can ask the seller to fix them, reduce the purchase price, or give you a cash credit at closing to fix the problems yourself. This is where a home inspection can pay for itself several times over. • I f these options aren’t viable in your situation (for example, if the property is bank-owned or being sold as-is), you can get estimates to fix the problems yourself and come up with a plan for repairs in order of their importance and affordability once you own the property.
Additional Inspection: Sewer Pipe Inspection A sewer pipe inspection gives our clients the peace of mind to know that their pipes are clean or, if there are problems, prepares them with knowledge and options to proactively address the situation. Sewer inspections are done for several reasons. They should always be done before buying a house and should be done if you’re having multiple problems with your drains. Video sewer line inspections will identify all types of problems, such as root intrusion and pipes that are misaligned, broken, punctured, off-grade, or corroded. The camera also identifies grease buildup, leaks, and obstructions.
The Bottom Line A home inspection will cost you a little bit of time and money, but in the long run, you’ll be glad you did it. The inspection can reveal problems that you may be able to get the current owners to fix before moving in or else prevent you from inadvertently buying a money pit. If you are a first-time homebuyer, an inspection can give you a crash course in home maintenance and a checklist of items that need attention to make your home as safe and sound as possible. Whatever the situation, addressing issues early through a home inspection can save you tens of thousands of dollars down the road.
HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE
Homeowners Insurance: A Beginner’s Overview Homeowners insurance (also known as home insurance) isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. And not just because it protects your home and possessions against damage or theft. Virtually all mortgage companies require borrowers to have insurance coverage for the full or fair value of a property (usually the purchase price) and won’t make a loan or finance a residential real estate transaction without proof of it.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Homeowners insurance policies generally cover destruction and damage to a residence’s interior and exterior, the loss or theft of possessions, and personal liability for harm to others. • Three basic levels of coverage exist: actual cash value, replacement cost, and extended replacement cost/value. • P olicy rates are largely determined by the insurer’s risk that you’ll file a claim; they assess this risk based on past claim history associated with the home, the neighborhood, and the home’s condition. • I n shopping for a policy, get quotes from at least five companies, and definitely check with any insurer you already work with—current clients often get better deals. The protections offered by a homeowner’s insurance policy may serve as a safety net if the unexpected occurs. A local insurance agent can help you select the types of coverage and limits that make sense for you, below is a list of local insurance agents we generally have a good relationship with and can help address your requirement.
RECOMMENDED HOME INSURANCE AGENTS We generally have a good relationship with one or more Inspectors. Below is list of recommendations.
Kaleab Mekuria
Bob Gregg
Farmer’s Insurance (206) 444-4321 kmekuria@farmersagent.com
Robert D. Gregg & Sons Insurance 425-743-3046 bobjr@rdgsons.com
DUTIES OF A BUYER’S AGENT/BROKER WAshington state ( 1 ) Unless additional duties are agreed to in writing signed by a buyer’s agent, the duties of a buyer’s agent are limited to those set forth in RCW 18.86.030 and the following, which may not be waived except as expressly set forth in ( e ) of this subsection: ( a ) To be loyal to the buyer by taking no action that is adverse or detrimental to the buyer’s interest in a transaction; ( b ) To timely disclose to the buyer any conflicts of interest; ( c ) To advise the buyer to seek expert advice on matters relating to the transaction that are beyond the agent’s expertise; ( d ) Not to disclose any confidential information from or about the buyer, except under subpoena or court order, even after termination of the agency relationship; and ( e ) Unless otherwise agreed to in writing after the buyer’s agent has complied with RCW 18.86.030(1)(f), to make a good faith and continuous effort to find a property for the buyer; except that a buyer’s agent is not obligated to:
(i)S eek additional properties to purchase while the buyer is a party to an existing contract to purchase; or ( ii ) show properties as to which there is no written agreement to pay compensation to the buyer’s agent. (2) ( a ) The showing of property in which a buyer is interested to other prospective buyers by a buyer’s agent does not in and of itself breach the duty of loyalty to the buyer or create a conflict of interest. ( b ) The representation of more than one buyer by different brokers affiliated with the same firm in competing transactions involving the same property does not in and of itself breach the duty of loyalty to the buyer or create a conflict of interest.
AFFILIATE PARTNERS Our trusted affilates provide the same level of quality service you expect from Coldwell Banker Bain. We provide the best, and that is what we expect from our affiliate partners.
Customized title insurance and settlement solutions with a seamless close. For over 30 years we’ve been meeting the title and escrow needs of Western Washington clients who rely on our local knowledge and expertise to deliver timely, superior real estate services.
Combining the high tech and high touch approach into one. We have all the latest technology available as well as the experienced personnel to make sure your home mortgage experience is easy and enjoyable.
Designed from the ground up with input from real estate pros, contractors and service professionals, the AHS® Real Estate Home Warranty is built to streamline every real estate transaction. With three packages and a consistent, high-level of coverage, both home buyers and home sellers can get exactly the protection they need, at a special real-estate-only price.
OVER 40 YEARS OF LOCAL EXPERTISE Begun in Seattle as William A. Bain Associates, Coldwell Banker Bain has operated in the Northwest for over 40 years. We have 32 offices stretching from Bellingham, WA to Bend, OR. We are one of the largest Coldwell Banker affiliates in the world.
32 OFFICES, 1,200+
LOCAL BROKERS OVER
3,000
OFFICES, IN 40 COUNTRIES WORLDWIDE
“The reason I went to work for Bill Bain is because he had the squeakiest, cleanest reputation of anyone in the industry.”
Bill Riss, Owner, Coldwell Banker Bain
OUR BUYER SERVICES LEAD THE MARKET When you work with us, we expertly manage every detail of your transaction. In addition to industry-standard services, Coldwell Banker Bain offers these additional benefits and trusted services: Coldwell Banker Bain Benefits: •
Over 40 years of experience
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New listing alerts
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Comparable market analysis
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Private virtual home tours hosted by the agent
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Virtual document signing
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Non-selling managing brokers
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After-sale follow-up and evaluation
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Local ownership, accountable to you
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Services guarantee
PRIVATE VIRTUAL
HOME TOURS A fantastic and safe time saver when searching for your new home. A live event that is hosted by your broker.
Affiliate Coldwell Banker Bain Services: •
Affiliated mortgage services
•
Affiliated title services
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Affiliated escrow services
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Affiliated home warranty protection
LYNNWOOD At Coldwell Banker Bain in Lynnwood, we aim to make your real estate experience a success. We have been awarded National Premier status, which recognizes our rank among the top 3% of all Coldwell Banker affiliate offices. Our brokers are industry professionals with a passion for real estate who are driven to excel on your behalf. And our core principle – Do the right thing – means no one is more committed to customer service and your complete satisfaction. As part of Coldwell Banker’s global network, we have the knowledge, training, insight, expertise and brand recognition to make selling your home seamless and stress-free. Clients list with us confident that our market strength, skill and advocacy will get real results. And we do. And because we don’t just work here, we live here too, we’re proud supporters of the many local groups and charitable organizations that strengthen Snohomish County and make our community special.
SUCCESSFUL HOME PURCHASES BEGIN WITH AN HONEST CONVERSATION WITH YOUR BROKER. SHARING YOUR NEEDS, EXPECTATIONS AND GOALS.
WHERE DO YOU WANT TO LIVE? Tell me which city, neighborhood or area you want to live in? _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________
WHAT ARE YOUR WANTS? A realistic list of what you want in a property: _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________
WHAT ARE YOUR NEEDS? List the things that are absolutely necessary: _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________
COMMUNICATION Real Estate can be a fast-moving train at times. It is very important we establish reliable forms of communication or we may miss out on an opportunity. Some prefer to only communicate via email, others through a phone call. Whatever your preference, be aware that a quick response can mean the difference between winning the bid or losing out to another buyer. What form(s) of communication do you prefer?
Phone
Text
Instant Messenger
Email:____________________________________________________________________________ Phone:___________________________________________________________________________ Instant Messenger Platform & Screen Name:___________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________
FREQUENCY Depending on the urgency of your home search, the frequency of our communication can vary a great deal. From several times per day if you’re a highly motivated buyer to a few times per week or less if you are not in a rush to find a property. Your privacy will always be respected.
HOME SEARCH CHECKLIST PREFERRED HOME FEATURES Home style (ie. Colonial, Craftsman etc.)_______________________________________________ Number of Bedrooms ______________________________________________________________ Number of Bathrooms ______________________________________________________________ Family Room ______________________________________________________________________ Bonus or Game Room ______________________________________________________________ Fireplace _________________________________________________________________________ Home Office ______________________________________________________________________ Kitchen Amenities__________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ Basement_________________________________________________________________________ Garage (no. of cars)________________________________________________________________ Central A/C_______________________________________________________________________ Lot Size___________________________________________________________________________ Pool______________________________________________________________________________ View_____________________________________________________________________________ Other Features_____________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________
1-Not important, 2-Somewhat important, 3-Moderately important, 4-Important, 5-Very Important LOCATION Ideal Neighborhood_________________________________________________________________ Ideal Commute Time________________________________________________________________ Convenient to Transportation Convenient to Schools Convenient to Shopping Convenient to Recreation
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
1
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4
5
Other Location Preferences__________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________
LIFESTYLE Eco-friendly
1
2
3
4
5
Urban life
1
2
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4
5
Low-maintenance property
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5
Close to nature
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Gardening
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Outdoor entertaining
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Other lifestyle preferences___________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________
SERVICE COMMITMENT
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HOME SEARCH TOOLS
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ACCESS TO NWMLS DATA AND LISTING DETAILS
As you can see, buying a home is no small feat. There are several steps to this process and it’s important that you have an educated, experienced and committed broker protecting your interest.
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COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS
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NEIGHBORHOOD AND SCHOOL PROFILES
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PROPERTY HISTORY AND TAX INFORMATION
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MARKET TREND INFORMATION
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EXPLANATION OF REAL ESTATE TERMS
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RELATIONSHIPS WITH LENDERS AND TITLE COMPANIES
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HOME INSPECTORS AND CONTRACTORS
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INSPECTION REPORT REVIEW
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PROFESSIONAL NEGOTIATIONS
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EXPERIENCE WITH CLOSING PROCESSES
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SERVICE AFTER THE SALE
Each buyer has a unique set of requirements. From the key features of the home to location or special financing needs, I have all the necessary resources to get you the best possible service. You will never be alone on this journey and I am committed to making sure your experience is exceptional.
LONG TERM RELATIONSHIP Establishing a long-term relationship with you is important to me, both personally and professionally. My business is largely run by the referrals of past clients to their friends and family, and my goal is for you to feel confident enough in my services that you can’t wait to tell everyone you know! Once you have moved into your new home, I will be available to help you find answers to any questions that may come up. You might need a recommendation on a contractor or handyman or possibly just want to know more about the neighborhood, and I am happy to help. I want your new home to be everything you hoped for!
Yibekal Kassa 206.919.2041 kassa@kassahomes.com