Buyer's Guide

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Buyer's Guide

Ready to purchase a home? We can make the process as seamless
as possible. From your first tour to your closing day, we’ll be by
your side every step of the way.

Buying a home doesn’t just mean finding a building in which to live—it means starting a new life in a new community. From discovering your new favorite restaurant to exploring the unique celebrations that make up the fabric of a neighborhood, we can help you find a place where you can work to make your dreams come true and create memories that will last a lifetime.

We are passionate about helping you find a place where you can thrive—a community in which you feel supported, encouraged, and inspired. We can help you through the process so you can focus on getting excited about the future.

Why Work with a Buyer Agent?

Though it is possible to work with an attorney or listing agent directly, there are a plethora of advantages to working with a buyer agent—not the least of which are unending support and peace of mind. A buyer agent will:

  • Put your needs first
  • Give you expert guidance and advice throughout the process, especially in terms of a property’s market value
  • Negotiate on your behalf only, ensuring you get the best deal possible (a listing agent works for the seller)
  • Typically have their commission paid by the seller (or builder in the case of new construction), making it an economical decision
  • Not charge by the hour (whereas an attorney usually will)
  • Be by your side through the home inspection and final walkthrough
  • Follow the terms you set in a buyer agreement—you have the power

Step 1: Pre-approval

The pre-approval process determines how much money you can borrow to purchase a home. Lenders take into account variables such as your income, assets, and credit score to conclude what loans you’re eligible for and what your interest rate will be.

​​​​​​​Why go through the pre-approval process?

  • Earns you credibility
  • Helps you understand your budget
  • Gives you an advantage in a multiple-offer situation

Tips to keep in mind during the pre-approval process:

  • Don’t change jobs
  • Stay away from expensive purchases
  • Include all debts or liabilities on your loan application
  • Avoid any new credit inquiries
  • Leave your bank account as it is

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Open House Tips

An open house is where you can tour a property and see if it might be the right fit for you. If you attend an open house without your agent, make sure you: 

  • Bring your agent’s business card with you so the open house host has their information
  • Contact your agent if you’d like to put in an offer
  • Keep in mind the open house host represents the selling party

Step 2: Making an Offer

You’ve toured properties and areas, and you’ve found what may your dream home. Now it’s time to work with your agent to express your interest and make an offer.

Things to keep in mind when deciding 
on an offer:

Financial variables

  • Price
  • Down payment amount
  • Interest

Logistics

  • Closing date
  • Inspection contingency
  • Radon testing

Terms to know:

  • Earnest money — the amount of money you deposit in a trust once your offer is accepted. It will remain there throughout the transaction and then go towards your down payment. (In our region, this is usually a minimum of 1% of the entire amount.)
  • Home inspection — a process for determining if a property has any defects that can impact the health and safety of its inhabitants. It can cost anywhere from $300 to $500, depending on the home’s size.
  • Appraisal — a lender-ordered determination of a home’s value by an unbiased professional. It typically costs around $400.


Step 3: Closing Tips

Congratulations! The seller accepted your offer, and you’re a brand-new homeowner! Make sure to have these things in hand when you go to sign on the dotted line:

  • Bring a cashier’s check to pay the rest of the down payment and closing costs. (You can also arrange to have the money wired.)
  • Provide a photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.

Work With Us

The Dix Group provides concierge-style services for savvy home sellers and buyers in Los Angeles + Orange County looking for a boutique experience based on trust, communication and integrity.

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