Living in Austin can be a truly life changing experience. To prepare yourself for buying property in Texas's coolest city, you need to know what to expect.
This step-by-step guide will guide you through the ins and outs of buying a home here.
What are your dream neighborhoods in Austin? Do you care about schools? Is no pool a deal-breaker? Start to put together your dream home wishlist, and do some major Googling. In addition to looking for homes that interest you, also take note of any changes in asking prices. This could give you valuable insight into housing trends in specific neighborhoods and help you when the time comes to make an offer.
Notice I said to decide on your budget—not determine how much the mortgage company will give you. It's always worth figuring out the monthly payment you feel comfortable with before talking to a lender. This likely includes doing a full household budget and taking into consideration what changes other than a mortgage payment will occur once you move into your new home (think property taxes, HOA dues, etc)
Choosing the right agent is a vital step in this process. Key things to look for:
Market Knowledge -- You want an agent that is well versed in current market data, with a sharp focus on the micro-trends within Austin. Analytics is my love language!
Negotiation and Contracts -- Look for designations that qualify an agent in these specialties (I hold both CNE and ILHM designations)
Insider Access -- I have relationships with sellers and agents throughout the country, giving me access to off-market and pocket listings.
Communication & Technology -- I am available for my clients on call, and in whatever communication medium suits them best
I will work tirelessly to find you the perfect home for you and your family, and I will be there to guide you through every step of the buying process.
This is where the fun begins! Using your dream home wishlist, I create a collaborative digital workspace where we can track your favorite properties, price changes, and market data. We can view homes in person or via video tour. We update your wishlist as we drill down to the perfect property for you.
This is truly my favorite part. Once you have found the perfect home, we work together to craft an offer that is both compelling to a seller, and leaves you with the feeling of having gotten a great value for your new home. The Austin market is a whirlwind, winning offers take nuance and skill.
Congrats, you are now officially in escrow! Contracts are often contingent on having the home inspected to ensure there is no major structural damage or large repairs needed. If there are no major issues, the process goes to step eight. If issues are discovered, we can renegotiate the offer based on what needs to be fixed, or of course the offer can be withdrawn.
Using a lender? Now is the time to finalize your loan. You will be presented with various options based on your unique financial situation, including fixed-rate, variable-rate, 15-year, 30-year, or special programs such as VA loans or FHA loans. Work with your mortgage lender to select the option you feel the most comfortable with. Paying cash? Be in touch with your banker to ensure the funds will be available for closing.
Once all the contingencies has passed, you are off to the closing table. Signing of the necessary paperwork is arranged by the title company. Once both parties have signed and funds have been dispersed, you will be the legal owner of your new home.
After signing the final paperwork to complete the purchase, you are now the owner of a new house. It may take a few days for your loan to be funded once the paperwork has been returned to the lender, but once that check is delivered to the seller, you’ll be all set to move into the home of your dreams.
You deserve a stellar real estate experience tailored to your needs. Rachel specializes in finding Austin’s hidden, off-market gems and matching her clients with the perfect place for their lifestyle.
