Buyer's Guide

Reach out to your Compass Agent, a licensed real estate professional. They will work as your advocates and trusted advisors to help guide your search.

Before beginning your search, your first step is to get pre-approved for a mortgage loan (unless you will be paying in cash for the full price of your home). Your Compass agent can connect you to a mortgage advisor. Based on your income and credit history, the mortgage advisor will determine how much a bank will lend you, which will help you determine the price range for your search.

Attend viewings and open houses spanning a range of areas and property types. Now is the time to consider your ideal location and amenities.

Analyze the contract of sale, disclosures and other documents with your agent. Your agent's job is vital to protecting your interests and understanding the contract and disclosure package.

Work with your agent to submit a formal offer which includes your pre-approval letter (or proof of funds), a cover letter, the contract and disclosure package.

Reach an agreement with the seller on price and terms. If your offer is not acceptable to the seller, they may return with a “counter offer”, which you can choose to accept, reject, or counter. Your Compass agent will advise on pricing throughout the process.

Once price is agreed upon and the seller approves your offer, you are one step closer to becoming a home owner!

If permitted within your offer, you may conduct your property inspections. A final walk-through ensures that the property's condition hasn't changed since your last visit and that the terms of your contract will be met.

Congratulations, you are now a home owner!