Our First Meeting

Don't be surprised if you're a little tense! After all, for most people, investing in a home is the single biggest financial commitment they make, so if you're tense you're normal! During the first few minutes you are trying to size up the agent, see if this is someone you think you can work with, while the agent will be asking you a series of "qualifying" questions. Some of these questions may seem rather personal, like your income and expenses, how many in your family, what do you like to do in your spare time, etc. However, in order to do the best job for you there are certain things the agent needs to know. Remember, you are going to become a team, not opponents, and the agent needs to have the proper information to help you find the right property.

You also will need to discuss agency relationships and agree on one with the agent (see 'Agency Disclosure' and 'True Buyer Agency' in this guide) and discuss the process of purchasing a home (see 'The Process'). The agent will likely run the initial home search at this time, too, and make arrangements to start showing you homes.

If its me you are meeting I will also give you several items for you to look over and become familiar with. Some of these documents have "fine print" in them, and should be read carefully as they are legally binding documents. They include:

1. Agency disclosure explanation and acknowledgment
2. Sample purchase agreement
3. Sample Seller's Disclosure document
4. List of reputable lenders and home inspectors
5. Hard copy of Home Buying Guide if desired
6. Purchaser Closing Costs sheet
7. Various other brochures and information

Now, let's go and find your new home!