Buyer Guide

Preparing to Buy

Step 2 of 5

Before you start shopping, a little preparation goes a long way. Getting your finances organized now means you can move quickly and confidently when the right home appears.

1

Build Your Green File

A green file holds all the financial documents you will need to secure financing. A complete one typically includes financial statements, bank accounts, investments, credit cards, auto loans, recent pay stubs, two years of tax returns, copies of leases for any investment properties, and your 401K, life insurance, stocks, bonds and mutual fund information.

Having this ready before you shop keeps the whole process moving.

2

Check Your Credit Rating

Your credit score has a major impact on which properties you can buy and at what price. Checking it early with an experienced lender lets us determine what you can comfortably afford. The lender will pull your ratings from all three reporting agencies, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion, and I am happy to recommend knowledgeable lenders across residential, construction, commercial and investment real estate.

3

Be Careful With Your Finances

This is not the moment for sudden career changes or large purchases. Approaching your purchase from a position of financial stability keeps your financing on track and your options open.

Ready to Start Looking?

Let’s talk about what you’re after and get you into the right home. No pressure, just straight answers.