Buying a Home

Let Me Streamline Your Entire Home Purchasing Process, Absolutely FREE!

Everyone wants a smooth home buying process, but not all real estate agents have the same experience to deliver that result. I’ve worked for nearly two decades in the Nanaimo real estate market and have worked with hundreds of people. For me, the process of buying a home is a road well-travelled and it’s always rewarding to see the satisfaction of my clients when their dream home becomes a reality. Each home buying transaction is unique, but my approach and my process has proven to be very successful.

1) Selling is a Shared Commitment

The best way to achieve any goal is to clearly define it. What kind of home are you looking for? Is it a primary residence, an investment for retirement, or a recreational property? What size is the home you’re looking? What kind of neighbourhood do you want to live in? Do you need proximity to amenities such as schools and recreation, or is a beautiful view most valuable to you? Which conditions or features are flexible, and which are deal-breakers? Our first step is to fully understand the kind of home you want, what your needs are, and the timeline that works best.

2) Know What You Can Afford

A home you can purchase and a home you can afford may be two different things. For most families, their home is a long-term investment and intended to be enjoyed for years to come. When you’re considering buying a home, I recommend a realistic evaluation of your financial situation so that you can enjoy your home and your lifestyle. If you already work with a lender, make an appointment to talk about prequalifying for your mortgage. If you’re in the process of choosing a lender, I can refer you to Nanaimo mortgage providers I’ve worked with. Choosing the right lender can save you thousands of dollars over the duration of your mortgage. Knowing what budget you have available accomplishes two things. It helps me find the best listing in your price range, and it means that you’re prepared to make an offer while other prospects are nervous and confused.

3) Exploring the Possibilities

The next step is to find Nanaimo homes that meet your criteria. We work together to make a list of possible homes available, and I arrange the best time to view the listings that interest you. By signing up for my private client services, you can access all online listings, even those not yet available through public MLS sites. You’ll receive listing information that matches your search criteria directly to your inbox as soon as it’s available. Spending a little time exploring the neighbourhoods you’d like to live in can help to refine your search and find the perfect match.

4) Recognizing the Best Value

Now the home buying process gets very exciting. You’ve found the home that delights you and can already imagine the delicious aromas coming from the kitchen, relaxing on the back deck admiring the garden you’ve always wanted. This is where my experience can really benefit you. I know the Nanaimo real estate market very well and can help you decide if this home is the right choice. Is the price comparable to other homes with similar features? Is it going to hold its value over time? I work hard on your behalf to ensure you have all the information you need to make this important decision. Together we’ll review a written building inspection report that provides an objective review of the home’s condition, lists any areas of concern, and the cost of any repairs that are needed. We’ll also review appraisals, and the legalities assurance of a home’s clear title of any financial burdens, possession dates, and property access. Acreages, strata title properties and recreation properties have many different hurdles we must clear together. This information is for your protection so that you know exactly what you are purchasing. Rest assured that my experience is to your benefit.

5) Making Your Offer

Once you’ve made your decision, I prepare a written offer that includes all the terms and conditions we’ve talked about. When a home is listed for sale, there’s often the expectation that the price will be negotiated. My experience allows me to anticipate issues and to leverage opportunities that may be overlooked by less experienced real estate agents. I will make a recommendation of what price to offer based on my experience, age, location and condition of the home, etc. Once agreed, I present your offer on your behalf and negotiate your terms and conditions.

6) Accepted Offers

Your offer to purchase may be accepted as it was presented, or a counteroffer may be offered for you to consider. I will provide my expert advice and work with you throughout the negotiating process. Once the terms have been agreed upon I will assist you through the subject removal process. Together we will collect the necessary information so you will be able to confidently make an informed decision. I have a trusted network of local professionals and can make recommendations for any services you require during the process including lawyers, notaries, mortgage specialists, building inspectors, contractors, and moving companies.

Buying a home is a very rewarding experience. Once these steps are complete, we will both have reached our goals. You’ll be the proud owner of a home you love, and I’ll have a very satisfied client who will gladly refer my services to family and friends. I look forward to helping you find the home you’ve always wanted. Give me a call and let’s get started.

MLS® property information is provided under copyright© by the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board and Victoria Real Estate Board. The information is from sources deemed reliable, but should not be relied upon without independent verification.