Step 1 – Prepare to purchase a home
There are plenty of things you'll want to take into account before you start searching for a home. When you begin your search, you'll probably want to create a checklist of items you need, get a feeling for what school districts you'd like to live in, and begin planning your budget. 

Step 2 – Speak with a real estate agent
This is where I come in. We'll plan a time to meet so we can talk about your real estate needs and get an idea of your upcoming plans. We'll talk about neighborhoods, schools in the area, the mortgage and housing industries, and any additional economic factors that could potentially affect your buying decision today or in the future.

In addition, I'll help you get started on your loan. RE/MAX Properties West works with some of the best mortgage professionals in St. Louis, so you'll be in great hands. They can help you figure out which kind of loan is best for you, as well as help you get approved.

Step 3 – Start your search
After our initial meeting, I'll begin looking for houses on the market that are great for you. I'll get a sneak peek of many of the houses and throw out the duds, and then we'll set up appointments to tour the homes when it's convenient for you.

As we view the homes, I'll show you the positive features and negative ones. I'll even ask you to tell us about things you like and don't like. It's pretty common for buyers to amend their must-have list as we view homes and some things become far more crucial than others. If that's the situation, I'll go back through the listings one more time and narrow it down to the home you've been wishing for.

Step 4 – Get a grasp of the market
My understanding of the St. Louis housing market is a fundamental benefit in your search. I am informed of all the neighborhoods and schools, and locations around the St. Louis area. Contact me at 314-435-4040 or e-mail me at mike@mikeleeker.com, and I'll be more than happy to answer your questions. My understanding of the market will keep you a step above the rest through the entire deal.

Step 5 – Find the home you've been looking for
I'm certain we'll find your dream home in St. Louis. When we do, I'll thoroughly develop your home purchase offer. The offer will be tailored to suit your needs, including a lot of contingencies. A few examples are obtaining financing, finishing the home inspection, and a clean title and a satisfactory appraisal.

 

Step 6 – Negotiate
Most deals don't close on the initial offer. It's extremely common to receive a counter offer. But don't let this alarm you. We'll figure out whether or not to consent to the counter offer, submit our own counter offer, or decline the seller's offer and move on.

How aggressively we negotiate the deal depends on market conditions. In addition, we'll work within your financing constraints. And when it's all said and done, we'll compose a contract that works well for you.

Step 7 – Secure a loan
Upon finalizing the contract, you'll begin working with your lender to close the loan. If you've been pre-qualified, this shouldn't take very long at all, but you should to stay in close contact with your mortgage lender. And I'll handle all the property information your lender will need to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
Your mortgage lender will send you a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) of closing costs within three days of receiving your loan application. You'll get a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) detailing closing costs from your mortgage lender within three days of taking your loan application. The estimate is based on the loan amount. RESPA requirements mandate that it has to contain all closing costs and fall within a tight range of accuracy, and I'll go over the estimate and let you know if it all looks okay.

Then it's time to close on your home. This should take place at a title company or escrow office and should be a smooth and relaxed occasion.

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! Now you can move into your new house. Enjoy it. And if you need anything or have any questions, just call me at 314-435-4040 or send me an e-mail.