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Boise Home Buying Process

The Steps:

  1. Find a REALTOR® you can trust:

    Westerra believes that it is essential that you select a real estate professional when considering your real estate purchase. The agent you choose should make you feel comfortable with their level of experience and knowledge. Simply put, you must be able to communicate well with your agent and trust that they truly have your best interest at heart.

  2. Outline area, expectations, and needs vs. wants:

    This is our first chance to sit down together to outline the details that your ideal property should possess. First off, we will establish the nature of representation you wish to secure with Westerra Real Estate Group. Upon reading and signing the Idaho Agency Brochure (link below), you will decide to become a “client” or remain a “customer”. Your agent will explain in detail the obligations of each type of representation thoroughly and encourage you to ask questions until you are completely satisfied with your representation decision.

    View the Idaho Agency Brochure

  3. Lender pre-approval:

    Before you are ready to make an offer on a property, a pre-approval letter from a lender is necessary for two reasons. One, it will give you an idea of what you can afford. And number two, when you are ready to make the offer, a pre-approval letter is necessary to accompany the purchase and sale agreement.

    1. Need help with pre-approval:

      Westerra Real Estate Group works with a large network of great lenders in the area. We can help you get pre-approved.

  4. Looking for a home:

    It’s time to tour homes that fit your selection criteria. As agents we are here to help you find your new home anytime; including evenings and weekends. You won’t have to spend your valuable time driving around and surfing the web for the perfect property because we’re doing it for you. We want to ensure that we are only showing you the properties that meet your specific criteria.

  5. Make the offer:

    When you find the right home, it’s time to make the offer. There shouldn’t be any surprises here because we have done all the required research.. A comparative market analysis will help determine how the asking price compares to other properties that have recently sold. In addition to sales data, we pay close attention to days on market and the average cost per square foot of the properties that have recently sold. We are experienced negotiators and will work hard to ensure you are getting the best deal possible. We will present all of the data objectively, point out advantages and disadvantages we perceive, and ultimately help you make a decision you will feel good about.

  6. The contract:

    When the Seller accepts your offer, the property is considered to be “under contract.” It is our job to make sure the transaction is handled smoothly and efficiently.

    1. Role of the Title Company:

      Both the Buyer and the Seller depend on the title company to carry out the instructions in the Purchase and Sale Agreement and to advise either party if anything in the contract is inconsistent or can’t be carried out. In addition, the title company will research the condition of the property’s deed, and ensure that any and all issues are brought to light. Title will process the lender paper work and deed transfer, facilitate the signing of closing documents, and record the transfer of title with the county in which the property is located.

    2. Inspections:

      Final details are handled and inspections and tests are performed to ensure everything is in good condition and in working order. If something negative turns up during the inspection period, this is your opportunity to ask the Seller to address the issue. Hiring a competent professional is extremely important here. If everything looks okay and there’s nothing else to negotiate, we head to closing.

  7. Closing:

    The closing or settlement of the sale is typically carried out in person at the title company. Here you review the terms and costs of your purchase and sign all of the related documents. Once the buyer and seller have signed the related documents, it is time for funding and recording. In other words the transfer of the property deed is recorded, the funds are dispersed to the sellers and the home is officially yours. After funding and recording, your keys will be delivered and you officially take possession of the property.

  8. Moving:

    Shortly after closing, you will want to remember to contact the utility, and phone companies to make sure they have been transferred out of the Seller’s names and into your name. Most importantly, you will want to make sure that the utilities are on. Don’t forget to complete your change of address form with the United States Postal Service. Keep in mind that the Post Office will forward your mail for 30 days but they do expect that you are sending notices to everyone that is sending you mail: Friends and relatives, magazines and mail order subscriptions, professional organizations, creditors, DMV, voter registration officials, and the IRS. Some moving expenses may be tax deductible, but please contact a licensed tax professional or the IRS for tax-related questions. For additional moving and or relocation information, please visit our Relocation section.

  9. What now:

    Enjoy your new home and do not forget to file your Home Owner’s Exemption with the county’s Assessor’s office! If you have any questions, feel free to contact us and we will point you in the right direction. And please remember that your referrals are greatly appreciated! Please don’t keep us a secret! If you have friends, family, or colleagues who are in need of real estate services, remember Westerra.