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From consultation to closing: The definitive homebuying checklist

Housing Wire

While you want your clients to be prepared, focus primarily on the immediate next steps and reiterate the key details as you progress through each stage of the transaction. Set the stage: Educate your clients on the market This is your time to shine!

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Everything You Need to Know About Making an Offer: 15 Tips for Homebuyers

HomeLight

But if you’re at the stage when you do want to buy a house, and you’re financially qualified to do so, be ready to act swiftly and seriously. Determine how much earnest money to offer. The customary amount to put down as an earnest money deposit will vary based on your market. Be ready to make a move.

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Closing on a House Checklist: 6 Things Home Buyers Must Do Before They Move In

Realtor.com

If the appraised value is less than the sale price, the contingency enables you to back out of the deal without forfeiting your earnest money deposit , says Bishoi Nageh , president of the Petra Cephas Team at Mortgage Network Solutions, in Somerset, NJ. If you spot any discrepancies, ask your lender to explain them.

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What You Need to Know If You’re Buying a Home from the Owner

HomeLight

At this stage, you’ll want to shop around and get preapproved by at least two different lenders to compare interest rates , closing costs , and terms. Also, be sure to include your earnest money deposit amount, closing dates, and who will be responsible for certain closing costs. Send your earnest money deposit.

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What is Earnest Money and Why Do You Need It?

Redfin

Once the seller’s agent is able to confirm that your earnest money has been deposited into an escrow account, the seller’s agent will mark the listing as a pending sale — in effect taking the property off the market. How much earnest money do you need to offer? Where does the earnest money go? .

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Understanding Why Under Contract Homes May Fall Apart

Realty Biz

Real estate transactions involve multiple stages, with "under contract" being a critical phase. During this stage, various contingencies, inspections, and other conditions may need to be met before the sale is finalized. They could lose their earnest money deposit by not performing or asking for an extension.

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House Appraisal Tips: What Home Buyers and Sellers Should Know

Realty Biz

Let’s take a look at the things you need to know when you are going through the home appraisal stage in a real estate transaction. An appraisal contingency will allow you to walk away from the deal without losing your earnest money deposit.