The Buying Process
Step One: Determine What You Can Afford
Meet with one of our mortgage representatives to become pre-approved. This process will not only pinpoint the price range for your search, but give you a negotiating position for when you put an offer on the house.
Preapproval Checklist | Online Preapproval | Connect with a Lender
Step Two: Outline What You Want
After you pinpoint the features you are looking for including size, style, features, location, accessibility to schools and other personal preferences, you're ready to meet with an agent.
My Home Search Worksheet | Connect with an Agent
Step Three: Initiate Your Home Search
Your agent can provide you with homes that match your criteria, but you also have full access to the MLS System through DiscoverStL.com. Register for Property Watch to save your favorite homes, store notes and receive automatic emails of new homes that match your search. Set appointments with your Prudential Select Properties agent to tour any home in the area.
Your agent can supply information on real estate values, taxes, utility costs, municipal services, neighborhood demographics, school data, and even alert you to proposed zoning changes that could affect your decision to buy.
Sign-up for Property Watch | This Weekend's Open Houses
Step Four: Make an Offer
Once you have found the home you wish to purchase your agent will help you submit an offer. The sellers then have the option of accepting, rejecting or counter-offering and your agent will negotiate the best possible terms for you.
Step Five: All the Fine Details
After the contract is accepted and signed by all parties your agent will help you:
- through the inspection process
- through the appraisal process
- through the loan approval process
- through preliminary title support
- through approval of the seller's disclosure statement
- through the escrow process
- through removing contingencies
Step Six: Close and Move
When all of the conditions of the purchase agreement have been met, your agent will sign your loan documents and closing papers. You will deposit the balance of your down payment and closing costs to escrow, and your lender will deposit the balance of the purchase price. The deed will then be recorded at the County Recorder's office and you will take ownership of your home.