Buyers Guide

Alyce Walker

REALTOR®, ABR, CRB, CRS, EPRO, GRI, QSC

alycewalker@remax.net | 704-906-9997 | alycewalker.remax.com

With over 30 years of experience, we offer incredible service and excellence in real estate. Named 2007 Charlotte REALTOR of the Year. Chosen several years as Five Star Best in Client Satisfaction. We cover all surrounding small towns. Offer buyer agency. Good market presence and knowledge. We are passionate about our business!

"I recently purchased my first home after serving in the military. Mrs. Walker was very eager to help my wife and I thru the process. She handled everything with great professionalism and poise. She kept us up to date and informed on every aspect. Mrs. Walker truly helped make a dream come true. Thank you so much. [You're] an amazing individual."

-Darius R.

SERVING THE CAROLINAS

Since 1998, RE/MAX Executive has been known for exceptional client care, innovative marketing ideas, and cutting-edge technology. Our affiliated businesses, Executive Title, Executive Insurance, and Executive Home Lending provide valuable resources for home buyers and sellers, so you can experience a smoother transaction from start to finish. Customer satisfaction is reflected in our high, industry-leading rate of repeat and referral business. With 4,991 transactions and over $2.2 billion in closed sales in 2023, we are the #1 RE/MAX in the Southeast!

LOCATIONS

ANDERSON, SC

ASHEVILLE, NC

CHARLOTTE, NC

CORNELIUS, NC

DENVER, NC

FORT MILL, SC

GEORGETOWN, SC

GREENVILLE, SC

HENDERSONVILLE, NC

INDIAN LAND, SC

LELAND, NC

MARS HILL, NC

MINT HILL, NC

MOORESVILLE, NC

MYRTLE BEACH, SC

NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, SC

OAK ISLAND, NC

PAWLEYS ISLAND, SC

RALEIGH, NC

SPARTANBURG, SC

WAYNESVILLE, NC

WILMINGTON, NC

YORK, SC

JOURNEY

Welcome to the exciting journey of finding your new home—a journey where dreams take shape and the joy of home-ownership becomes a reality. At RE/MAX Executive, we understand that buying a home is one of life’s most significant milestones, and our agents are dedicated to guiding you through every step with care and expertise.

The process begins with understanding your unique desires and needs. Your RE/MAX Executive agent listens closely to envision the home that fits your life and dreams, ensuring your search is tailored and meaningful.

Navigating the financial landscape is your next step, and our agents are here to connect you with trusted mortgage professionals. With pre-approval, you’ll approach the home search with clarity and strength, knowing what you can afford and ready to make a move when you find “the one.”

Your agent’s local knowledge and extensive network open the door to a variety of homes, possibly including those not yet marketed. When you find that special place, they will help you craft an offer that is both compelling and smart, informed by a deep understanding of the market.

The commitment of your RE/MAX Executive agent extends beyond the offer acceptance. They stand by you through inspections and negotiations, ensuring your interests are always at the forefront. And as closing day approaches, they manage the complexities, coordinating with all parties to ensure a smooth transition.

At RE/MAX Executive, we’re more than agents—we’re your partners in this significant life event. From the initial meeting to the moment you hold your new keys, we’re here to ensure your path to homeownership is as seamless and joyful as possible.

GOING UNDER CONTRACT

PREPARATION

Purchasing a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make in your lifetime. Proper preparation is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful home-buying experience. Here are some useful tips to help you get ready.

CHECK YOUR CREDIT SCORE:

• Obtain a Credit Report: You can request a free annual credit report from the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
• Review for Errors: Ensure there are no discrepancies or errors on your report. If you find any, dispute them immediately.
• Understand Your Score: A higher credit score can lead to better mortgage rates. If your score isn’t ideal, consider waiting and working on improving it before purchasing.

BUDGETING AND SAVING:

• Determine Your Budget: Calculate how much home you can afford. Consider all monthly expenses, not just the mortgage.
• Save for a Down Payment: Aim for a down payment of 20% to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI). However, there are loan programs available that require less, including loans that offer 100% financing. Working with a professional, you are guided through the prices to ensure you are aware of all the options available.
• Consider Closing Costs: These are additional fees and can range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price.

DEBT MANAGEMENT:

• Pay Down Debt: Lenders look at your debt-to-income ratio. Reducing your debt can improve this ratio and your chances of getting a favorable loan.
• Avoid New Debt: Don’t make large purchases or take on new debt before buying a home. This can impact your credit score and loan approval.

DO

 PAY BILLS ON TIME
REDUCE DEBT TO < 25% OF CREDIT LIMIT
KEEP LONG STANDING ACCOUNTS OPEN
DIVERSIFY TYPES OF CREDIT USE

DON'T

CHANGE BANK ACCOUNTS
APPLY FOR NEW CREDIT
MAKE LARGE PURCHASES
CO-SIGN OTHER LOANS

WHY HIRE A REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

REPRESENTATION

WHAT IS FIDUCIARY DUTY?

Fiduciary duty is a legal obligation to act in the best interests of our clients. When you choose us, you’re not just getting an agent; you’re gaining a partner bound by six crucial responsibilities:

1.    LOYALTY
2.    OBEDIENCE
3.    DISCLOSURE
4.    CONFIDENTIALITY
5.    REASONABLE SKILL & CARE
6.    ACCOUNTING

At RE/MAX Executive, these fiduciary duties are not just legal obligations; they’re the foundation of our relationship with you. We are here to make your real estate journey smooth, successful, and tailored to your unique needs.

EXPERT NEGOTIATORS WORKING FOR YOU

Navigating the intricate art of negotiation is one of the core strengths of our agents. We understand that securing the right property at the right price is paramount. 

Our skilled negotiators leverage their expertise and market insights to advocate fiercely on your behalf. Whether it’s securing a competitive offer or facilitating a seamless transaction, we are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for you.

PRE-APPROVAL

Generally, it is recommended that you get pre-qualified for a loan before you start viewing homes with the serious intention of buying. The pre-approval process involves meeting with a lender and authorizing them to examine your current financial situation and credit history. On the basis of this examination the lender will provide you with a document that details how much you can borrow to buy a home.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED

• Last two months of bank statements
• Last two months of retirement and 401K statements
• Last 30 days of pay stubs
• Award letters for Retirement Income, Social Security, Disability Income and SSI
• Last two years 1040 Federal Income Tax Returns

• Last two years of Federal Corporate and/or Partnership Tax Returns
• Last two years of W-2 forms
• Copy of Driver’s License
• For Military: Statement of Service (with reenlist eligibility) and Military ID
• If you have rental property income, bring a copy of all lease agreements

MORTGAGE CONSIDERATIONS

HOME SEARCH

With a pre-approval letter in hand, you can confidently search for homes within your budget. Sellers are more likely to consider offers from pre-approved buyers since there’s a higher likelihood of the sale going through.

• Location
• Budget
• Size & Layout
• Future Resale Value
• Age & Condition of the Property
• Energy Efficiency
• Local School Districts
• Property Taxes
• Homeowners Association (HOA)
• Future Development
• Natural Disasters
• Commute & Transportation
• Local Amenities
• Noise & Surroundings
• Growth Potential

MAKE AN OFFER

Once you find a home you love, your agent will help you make a competitive offer based on comparable homes in the area and current market conditions. The seller might accept your offer, reject it, or make a counteroffer. Your agent will guide you through the negotiation process to ensure you get the best deal possible.

DETERMINE OFFER AMOUNT:
Decide how much you’re willing to offer based on the home’s value and market conditions.


CONTINGENCIES:
Decide on any conditions or contingencies you want to include in your offer, such as a home inspection or financing.


EARNEST MONEY:
Decide on how much earnest money to offer, which acts as a sign of your commitment.

OFFER LETTER:
Put together a formal written offer that includes more than just the price. It might also detail terms, contingencies, and other conditions.


NEGOTIATION:
Once your offer is made, the seller may accept, counter, or reject it. Be prepared for some back and forth negotiation.

Inquire now