1. Contact the Realtor
Explain Your Needs:
Reach out to Lourdes Alvarez to share the details of the property you’re looking for, including:
- Type of property: house or apartment.
- Desired area or neighborhood.
- Budget: specify if you’re buying in cash or financing.
- Timeline: when you plan to complete the purchase.
What Happens Next:
Lourdes Alvarez will use this information to begin searching for the ideal property tailored to your needs.
2. Provide Proof of Funds
For Cash Buyers:
- Send a screenshot of your bank account showing sufficient funds for the purchase.
For Financed Purchases:
- Provide a screenshot of your available funds.
- Submit a pre-approval letter from a U.S. bank or lender.
Need Help with Financing?
If you don’t have a pre-approval letter or a U.S. bank, Lourdes Alvarez can connect you with a trusted mortgage broker. The broker will evaluate your financial situation and issue the pre-approval letter, which is often required to view properties.
3. Virtual Property Tours
No Travel Needed:
Lourdes Alvarez will conduct property tours on your behalf and:
- Record detailed videos of the properties.
- Offer live virtual tours via FaceTime or other platforms.
This allows you to explore potential homes from the comfort of your city or country.
4. Submit an Offer
Initial Offer:
Once you’ve identified the property you want to purchase, Lourdes Alvarez will draft an initial offer contract to submit to the seller.
Final Agreement:
If the seller accepts the offer, a final contract will be drafted. This document includes:
- The agreed purchase price.
- Payment schedules.
- Closing date.
5. Sign the Contract
Buyer and Seller Agreement:
Both parties will sign the final purchase agreement, making the terms official.
6. Schedule Property Inspections
Professional Inspections:
Lourdes Alvarez will arrange for professional inspectors to examine the property. This includes:
- General Inspection: Reviews the structure, plumbing, electrical systems, appliances, air conditioning, and more.
- Termite and Mold Inspection: Ensures there are no infestations or issues with mold.
Outcomes:
- If the property has significant issues, the buyer can decide to cancel the purchase and receive their deposit back.
- If everything is satisfactory, the purchase process continues.
Total Estimated Inspection Costs:
Approximately $2,000.
7. Closing the Sale
Title Company:
A title company in the U.S. oversees the property transfer process. They handle:
- Verifying the property’s legal ownership.
- Ensuring the title is free from liens or legal issues.
- Collecting and distributing funds at closing.
Legal Fees:
Hiring a real estate attorney is optional but highly recommended to:
- Review and finalize all documents.
- Conduct a thorough investigation to ensure there are no outstanding debts, unpaid taxes, or issues with the property or the HOA.
- Facilitate a smooth transaction and offer peace of mind.
Estimated Costs:
- Legal Fees (Real Estate Attorney): Around $2,000.
- Title Company Fees and Taxes: These are typically moderate and depend on the property but are generally not very high.
8. Realtor Costs
Lourdes Alvarez Charges No Fees to Buyers:
Unlike many Realtors who charge buyers up to 3% of the purchase price, Lourdes Alvarez offers her services at no upfront cost and no commission charged to the buyer.
Who Pays the Realtor’s Fee?
The seller covers the Realtor’s commission. This means buyers benefit from professional guidance throughout the entire process without any financial obligation to the Realtor.