Buyer's Guide

It’s important to know how much you can comfortably spend and be able to back that up with verification from a bank or lender. Getting pre-qualified is the first step in understanding affordability. Wayne will get you access to the best lenders in the industry.

You should also be aware that there are closing costs associated with every transaction in Ohio for both buyers and sellers. These costs depend on the contract price. Wayne, along with the title company, can help you understand the expense associated with tax, title fees, mortgage recording tax, etc.

Aside from knowing the specifics of the home you want (i.e. how many bedrooms, bathrooms, etc.), you should create a list of the top two or three neighborhoods that you want to live in. Think about your potential commute to work, where your friends live, and neighborhood amenities like restaurants, schools, transportation, and grocery stores.

Wayne will help advise you throughout the search and can set up a schedule to show you the homes that are the best fit for your criteria. Once you find a home you love, you are ready to make an offer!

Offers are made in writing and Wayne will relay your offer to the seller/seller’s agent. In your offer, you should have your pre-approval letter (if you are financing), and proof of funds if it’s a cash purchase.

Once Wayne puts in an offer on your behalf, know that not everything will be negotiable. The seller may send you a counteroffer, which then begins a back-and-forth process until both parties come to an agreement.

Wayne will fight hard to get you the best deal possible.

From this point on, it typically takes between four and five weeks to complete the purchase of your home. During a sales transaction, Wayne will write up the contract for the seller’s agent and seller’s to review. There may be negotiations during this time on things like price, possession, inspection period, etc. Once both parties have signed and executed the contract, escrow will be opened. The due diligence period will be for all home inspections. Home inspections can take anywhere from one-to-ten days to complete. Your lender will also order the home appraisal to verify thee homes value. After the home inspections and appraisal are completed, the file will be headed towards the finish line and the close of escrow.

If you are financing, you should already have your pre-approval letter from your mortgage banker. Mortgage applications cannot be processed without an executed contract.

​​​​​​​For your application, be prepared to provide financial statements, tax returns and bank statements.

As part of the contract, we will set a closing and possession date. Before closing and taking possession, we will have a final walk-through to verify the condition of the home before it officially closes and becomes yours.

After closing, you’ve officially purchased your new home. Your search has finally come to an end and it’s time to celebrate!