Esther Davis | Carlsbad Real Estate

Your Home Journey Begins HEre

Buying a Home

Homeownership is a major milestone that will shape your lifestyle and family life for years to come. It is also one of the biggest purchases you will make, requiring careful financial commitment.

Today’s real estate market in Carlsbad presents unique challenges, including rising home prices, high interest rates, limited inventory, and new commission rules.  As your trusted real estate advisor, we help you navigate these complexities by positioning you for success, breaking the process into manageable steps, and empowering you to make informed decisions.

What Sets Us Apart

  • Our proactive approach to finding off-market homes gives you access to hidden opportunities.
  • Each sale includes packing & unpacking assistance, making your move as stress-free as possible.
 

Dedicated Buyer’s Representative

From the initial consultation to handing you the keys, we handle every detail of the transaction, keep you informed every step of the way, and answer any questions about forms, contracts, and procedures.  Our expert advice ensures you make the best decisions for your goals.

Home Buying Roadmap

1. Initial Consultation

During our free initial consultation, we listen carefully to your needs, goals, timeline,  preferences, and priorities so we can personalize our service to locate properties that fit your criteria.

2.  Buyer Representation Agreement (NEW NAR Policy & California AB 2992)

Effective August 17, 2024, the National Association of Realtors requires all agents to have a signed buyer representation agreement before showing properties, offering advice, or preparing offers. At EXP Realty, we lead the industry with our simple, easy-to-understand 2-page agreement.

The agreement must specify upfront:

  • What services will be provided
  • Contract duration & expiration (up to 3 months)
  • Buyer’s agent’s compensation (this is the maximum amount agent may receive and is negotiable)
  • When compensation is due (California AB 2992 requirement for 1/2025)

Buyers can compensate their agents:
  • Out of pocket
  • Negotiate with sellers to pay some or all of their agent fees as concessions to the purchase price (which the seller may accept or reject)
  • All terms must be in writing and agreed upon by both parties
 
4.  Home Search Strategy
We use advanced digital tools, market knowledge, and good old fashion methods to access an extensive database of properties, including exclusive listings and off-market options.  We will arrange showings for your top favorites that match your criteria.  Focus on your higher priorities while being willing to accept tradeoffs for lower priorities.   If you see a home you would be upset to see sold, consider making an offer.

5.  Offer & Negotiation

When you choose a property to make an offer, we will conduct a thorough market analysis so you have data about fair market value, recent sales, market time, price changes, seller motivation, property condition, and other market conditions. Objective data will help us formulate an informed offer you feel comfortable with.

6.  Contract & Escrow

When you and the seller have agreed to the price and terms, your accepted offer becomes a purchase contract and escrow will be opened.  The purpose of escrow is to hold the earnest deposit, research title history, and reconcile loan payoffs, property taxes, HOA fees, liens, etc.

7. Buyer Escrow Process

  • Earnest Money must be deposited within 3 days. Always confirm by phone with your escrow agent before wiring any money.
  • Finalize Loan Application
  • Get a Home Inspection
  • Lender will order an Appraisal
  • Renegotiate if needed
  • Review Seller Disclosures
  • Get Homeowner’s Insurance policy
  • Title Insurance
  • Remove contingencies
  • Schedule movers
  • Final Walkthrough
  • Closing Documents
  • Close Escrow & Get Keys!

Let’s find you a home!

Every transition presents an opportunity for growth and fulfillment. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, expanding your family, downsizing, or seeking a change of scenery, we are here to guide you every step of the way.