Find your Home with Susie

Buying a home is an exciting process but can often come with very mixed emotions.  There are so many decisions from financing, to negotiating to closing, with a lot of moving pieces that can leave homebuyers not knowing where to begin.

One of the biggest reasons to work with an experienced agent is you need a skilled negotiator. In today’s market, hiring a talented negotiator could save you thousands, maybe even tens of thousands of dollars. From the original offer to the appraisal and the inspection, many of the intricate steps can get complicated and confusing. Susie has the experience to help you get the best deal and will explain each step of the process.

Susie Basham is a professional agent who knows the ins and outs of the real estate industry. She will help guide you through each step of the buying process, offering sound advice along the way. You will not only end up with a great home, but you’ll also walk away with a great experience!

One of the most confusing things to a new home buyer are all the words that are used.   Here is an explanation of the most common terms that you will here during your process: (Know the Lingo Guide)

Buying Guide

Let's Get Started

Fill out the form below so Susie can get ready for your initial meeting.

    Your Name*:

    Your Email*:

    Your Phone*:

    Street Address:

    City & State: ,

    What kind of home are you looking for?

    Where (city, town, area) are you looking to move?

    When is the best time to call?

    Any questions or additional feedback about your home search:

    Six Easy Steps to Find your Dream Home

    1. Choose your Buying Agent

    It is important that you choose an agent that you are comfortable with and who listen to your needs.  You should choose an agent who has experience in working with lenders and can help you negotiate the best deal for you!

    2. Determine How Much House you can Afford

    Even if you’re in a market that’s not as competitive, understanding your budget will give you the confidence of knowing whether or not your dream home is within your reach, and help you avoid the disappointment of falling in love with a house well outside your price range. A mortgage lender is the best first step to help you figure out exactly what you can afford.

    3. Get Prequalified & Preapproved for a Mortgage

    This will help you show you’re serious about buying a home. By providing your real estate agent with some basic information about your income, savings, and debt, he or she can assist you in getting pre-approved by a reputable lender. The lender will then go over your financing options, what monthly payment amount you can afford, and what you can expect for down payment requirements and closing costs. If you are not sure where to start, I have listed some partners you can contact (Local Lenders) or you we can sit down, and I can help you get started.

    4. Tour Homes for Sale & Make an Offer

    For most buyers, choosing a home is an emotional process. There are so many options and places to look to find your home.  Here are some tips to help you get started (Find your Dream Home Guide) Once you’ve found the home of your dreams, Susie will research recent sales of similar homes in the area to help determine a fair selling price. Based on those comparable sales, as well as other factors like inspections and repairs, an agent will then help you structure an offer and negotiate to get the very best deal possible. (Tips on Making an Offer Guide)

    5. Get a Home Inspection & Appraisal

    You have an accepted offer now what? The first step is to schedule a home inspection.  You dream home may look perfect, but it is always good to make sure all the systems are in working order and there is no hidden damage. Here are some things an inspector will be looking at during the appointment: (Home Inspections Guide) There are many professional Inspectors in the area, here is a list to get started (List of Local Inspectors)

    If you are using financing for your home purchase your lender may require an appraisal and will work with you getting one scheduled.  If you are not, it is still in your best interest to have the home appraised to make sure you are paying the correct price for the home.

    6. Finalize Mortgage & Prepare for Closing

    Getting to the closing table is the final step in the home buying process but can also be the most confusing. Either a title company or closing attorney will handle the closing process. Regardless of how you’re buying, a real estate agent can help. Susie will be in communication with your lender, the closing agency, and you to answer any questions that you may have and to ensure that everything goes smoothly.  Read Have you put aside enough for closing costs?

    Let's Get Started

    Whether buying or selling your home in Kentucky, I would love to work with you on getting to know your real estate needs, goals and wants so I can make your dreams a reality.