Buying a Home, Ready Before the First Showing
Get ready first, learn what your budget really buys, then win the right home with calm, clear negotiation.
What buying a home takes
Buying a home in Scottsdale, Cave Creek or Anthem starts long before you walk into a house you love. The buyers who win the right home are usually the ones who were ready to act when it appeared: financing in place, a clear budget, and an agent who already knew what similar homes had sold for.
Buyers who aren’t ready tend to learn the hard way. They lose a home to someone who could write an offer that afternoon, or they discover late that a house never fit their budget once taxes, HOA dues and insurance were counted.
My job is to get you ready first, so the search is shorter and the decision is clearer.
Let’s talk about your move
How I represent buyers with Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living
I’m Valerie Moe, with Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living. For twenty years I’ve represented buyers through significant purchases, including homes up to $20 million in Beverly Hills and the Coachella Valley before I brought that experience to the Sonoran Desert.
Most of the buyers I work with have bought before. They don’t want to be handled like beginners. They want someone who tells them what she sees, does the math with them, and stays present after the contract is signed, which is exactly when many agents go quiet.
Before I show homes, we sign a buyer broker agreement and go through it line by line. It puts our working relationship in writing, including how my compensation works, so there are no surprises.
What buying with me looks like
My buying process has four parts. Each links to the full explanation on how buying works with me.
- Ready. Pre-approval or proof of funds, and representation in writing, before we tour.
- Educated. What your budget really buys in the communities you’re considering, based on sold prices rather than asking prices.
- Aligned. A search built on your real criteria, so you see fewer homes and better ones.
- Locked. Offer, inspection, financing and closing, handled calmly and on schedule.
Costs to plan for beyond the price
The list price is only one number. Before we tour, we talk through the costs that don’t show up in listing photos: HOA dues and what they cover, property taxes, insurance, the condition of the home and what may need attention soon, and the cash you’ll need at closing.
Earnest money is part of every offer. For most of my buyers it’s typically up to 3% of the purchase price, negotiated case by case, and deposited with the title company rather than with either side.
Buying a home across the areas I serve
Each community buys differently. Start where you’re looking:
- Buying a home in Scottsdale
- Buying a home in Cave Creek
- Buying a home in Anthem
- Buying a home in Grayhawk
- Buying a home in Tatum Ranch
When you’re ready, let’s talk about your move. You can also browse my current listings or return to the home page.
This page describes my general process and is not legal, tax, financial or lending advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a pre-approval before we look at homes?
Yes, or proof of funds if you’re paying cash. It tells a seller you’re serious and tells you your real ceiling, so you can act when the right home appears.
What do I sign before we start?
A buyer broker agreement. It puts our working relationship in writing, including what I’ll do for you, how long we’re working together and how my compensation works. We go through it together first.
How long is the inspection period?
It’s usually 10 days from when you’re under contract. That’s your time to have the home professionally inspected and decide what, if anything, to ask the seller to address.
Buying a Home by neighborhood
Free guide
Relocating to Scottsdale, Cave Creek or Anthem
How to compare the areas, buy from a distance, and arrive to a home that fits the way you live.
From the blog
Read more on buying a home
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Ready to make your move with Valerie Moe?