Collins & Co. Let’s Connect

Buyers

The Buying Process

Buying a home is an exciting and emotional experience. As your local expert, Maya guides you through every step, so you can feel comfortable and confident from the first showing to the day you get the keys.

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Step by Step

Eight steps to home.

Every purchase is different, but the path is familiar. Here is what to expect, and where Maya does the heavy lifting.

  1. Get Pre-Approved

    The first step is understanding your buying power. A licensed lender reviews your income and credit to determine how much the bank will lend, which sets your price range. A pre-approval letter in hand also makes your offer stronger when the right home appears.

    Try the Mortgage Calculator

  2. The Home Search

    Start your search with up-to-date listings in your favorite neighborhoods, and save the homes you love. Maya also searches on your behalf, including homes that never reach the open market, and schedules private tours when something fits.

    Search Homes

  3. Making An Offer

    When you are ready to move forward, Maya advises you on constructing the strongest possible offer and prepares the paperwork. Together you will weigh price, closing date, contingencies and any special terms. Once the offer is submitted, the seller may accept, decline or counter.

  4. Going Under Contract

    Once your offer is accepted, you are officially under contract. The home cannot be sold to anyone else while the contract is in effect. Unless you are paying cash, this is when you make your earnest money deposit and finalize your mortgage.

  5. Home Inspection

    A licensed inspector evaluates the entire property and reports on its structure and systems. Maya reviews the findings with you and negotiates repairs or credits where they make sense.

  6. Home Appraisal

    Your lender arranges an independent appraisal: an unbiased estimate of the home’s fair market value. If the number comes in low, Maya helps you understand your options.

  7. The Final Walkthrough

    Shortly before closing, you walk the home together to confirm that agreed repairs are complete and the property is in the condition you expect.

  8. Closing

    Time to celebrate. Your lender provides a final closing disclosure, everyone signs, the loan funds, and you receive your keys. Welcome home.

Tools & Services for Buyers

Everything you need to search smart.

Start Searching

Home Search

Browse current listings by neighborhood, price and features, on a list or a map.

Search

New Listing Alerts

Save your criteria and hear about new and off-market homes before everyone else.

Get Alerts

Neighborhood Guides

Market snapshots, lifestyle notes and the local insight you can only get on the ground.

Explore

Mortgage Calculator

Estimate your monthly payment, including taxes, insurance and HOA dues.

Calculate

Get Ready

The Moving Checklist

A simple timeline to make moving day feel effortless.

Two Months Before
  • Start a folder for documents and estimates.
  • Create a moving budget.
  • Request quotes from moving companies.
A Month Before
  • Book your moving company.
  • Order boxes and packing supplies.
  • Sort belongings and donate what you no longer need.
  • Update school records and change your address.
Two Weeks Before
  • Begin packing, labeling boxes by room.
  • Schedule utility transfers.
  • Cancel or move local services.
The Week Of
  • Empty drawers and cabinets.
  • Pack an essentials suitcase.
  • Arrange pet and childcare for moving day.
  • Reconfirm details with the movers.

Buyer FAQ

Questions buyers ask most.

Don’t see yours? Ask Maya

How much do I need for a down payment?

It depends on the loan. Many conventional loans start at 3 to 5 percent down, while 20 percent avoids private mortgage insurance. Your lender will walk you through the options, and Maya can introduce you to trusted local lenders.

Does it cost anything to work with a buyer’s agent?

Compensation is agreed with you in writing before you tour homes, and it is often negotiated as part of the purchase. Maya explains every option clearly at your first consultation, so there are no surprises.

How long does it take to buy a home?

Searches vary, but once your offer is accepted, a typical financed purchase closes in about 30 to 45 days. Cash purchases can close faster.

Can you help me find homes that aren’t listed yet?

Yes. Through her network Maya often hears about homes before they reach the market, and she will reach out to owners directly when a street you love has nothing for sale.

What if I need to sell my current home first?

Maya can coordinate both sides, timing your sale and purchase together, and discuss options like contingent offers or bridge financing with your lender.

Ready When You Are

Let’s find your next home.

Tell Maya what you’re looking for and she’ll guide you from first showing to closing day.

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