The Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Property in the Chicagoland Area
1.) BUYER CONSULTATION MEETING
1. Buy vs. Renting decision
2. Review entire process with your Realtor
3. Understanding all costs related to buying
2.) FIRST STEPS
1. Get Pre-Approval from a Lender
2. Set your price range, including taxes & assessments, if a condo
3.) START VISITING HOMES
1. Which one is the Best?
2. “I’ve found the One”!
4.) NEGOTIATE YOUR PURCHASE
1. Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
2. Write the offer
3. Formulate Negotiation Strategy
4. Counter-Offer(s) lead to Accepted Offer
5. Delivering of Earnest Money
5.) FIRMING UP THE CONTRACT
1. Attorney Approval Period
2. The Inspection
3. Resolving Contractual & Inspection Items
6. ) LOAN PROCESS
1. Apply for Mortgage
2. Appraisal
3. Mortgage Contingencies
7.) MOVING PREPARATIONS
1. Start/Move Utilities
2. Change of Address
3. Physical Moving Arrangements
8. ) CLOSING PROCESS
1. Schedule Closing
2. Final Walkthrough
3. Closing
9.) TAKE POSSESSION
1. Post Closing Activities