Since touring homes now require buyers to sign an agreement before showings, we thought it would be nice to cover real estate buyer consultation topics agents should address with buyers before they sign an agreement.

A real estate buyer consultation is a comprehensive meeting to educate and discuss several important matters in the home buying process. Let’s talk about some of them.

Real Estate Buyer Consultation Topics

1. Will buyers pay cash or financing? If they are financing, what credit score do they need? How much will they need for down payment? How much are closing costs? Is the escrow amount the same for cash offers as financed offers?
2. What is the process? How long does it take? Is a home inspection required?
3. Should we use a standard contract or an as-is contract? What are the advantages of each?
4. What happens if the home fails inspection?
5. What happens if the home does not appraise?
6. What will the homeowner’s insurance cost? Can this be found out before placing an offer? Are there ways to save on homeowner’s insurance?
7. Is flood insurance required? If so, how much is it? Are there ways to save on flood insurance?
8. How much home can I afford?
9. Is the HOA fee included in the loan qualification process?
10. Can my agent get access to discussions an HOA has been having about future costs to be levied?
11. What will an agent charge me to work with me?
12. Are sellers still paying the commission?
13. What if I find a For Sale by Owner myself?
14. What website has access to all the listings?
15. Is it a Buyer’s market or Seller’s market?
16. What’s really going on with interest rates?
17. How do we make my offer look better to the seller?
18. Should I use an agent when working with a builder?
19. What questions should I be asking about the HOA/Condo?
20. Has the home flooded in the past?
21. What could cause my home insurance to be cancelled?
22. If I intend to rent out the home, what are the rental restrictions?
23. What are pet restrictions?
24. Is a solar loan assumable by the buyer?
25. What home improvements pay off when I go to sell?

Upfront Knowledge

This was just a quick list of 25 items an agent could discuss with you in your consultation. Of course there are others. Ellis Team agents want to know more about you and what the home should do for you. Depending on your answers, more questions could arise.

The main thing is we want to educate and inform our buyers how the process should work, and cover items that typically arise in a transaction. Or course, when surprises happen, we are with you every step of the way to discuss your options.

Buyers should know upfront how much they can afford and how much a home is going to cost. Every home eventually needs maintenance and repair, so it’s best to evaluate a home’s current condition before making a purchase decision.

Set Expectations

When expectations are set up front, decisions are easier when the facts present themselves. Too many buyers are surprised by facts, then paralyzed by fear of making a bad decision because they hadn’t contemplated that situation. Education on the front end prepares buyers and makes new information an easier decision, because it was addressed already. It’s impossible to educate every buyer about everything that could possibly happen. This is why we stand as your partner to help you through the transaction. It is beneficial, however, to cover the main things we see repeatedly.

Lastly, the real estate buyer consultation is your chance to learn and ask questions. The answers will be invaluable to your decision. You’re not just buying a house. First, you’re hiring an agent. Secondly, you’re using that agent to help you buy the best home for you, at the best terms for your family.

If you’d like to speak with us, we can be reached at 239-489-4042. Or visit www.LeeCountyOnline.com to search the MLS like a pro. Either way, the Ellis Team at Keller Williams Realty is here to help you.

Good luck, and Happy House Hunting!

Ellis Team Weekend Open Houses

Open House Saturday 12-3 PM

11056 Sea Tropic Ln, Fort Myers, FL 33908

Open House Sunday 12-3 PM

7674 Bay Lake Dr, Fort Myers, FL 33907

Open House Sunday 12-3 PM

14386 Reflection Lakes Dr Fort Myers, FL 33907