Douglas Wray, Gig Harbor Real Estate Agent, Buyers Representative for Gig Harbor, Tacoma, Puget Sound, Western Washington

<BODY bgcolor="#7EA1C9"> <center> <h1>Doug Wray Buyer's Representative</h1> <h2>For Gig Harbor Real Estate & Homes For Sale</h2> <p> <font size="2">Douglas Wray, Real Estate Agent, Buyers Representative for Gig Harbor, Tacoma, Puget Sound, Western Washington. <br> Military Relocation Specialist, Sellers Representative , Kitsap Peninsula, Port Orchard, Bremerton, Silverdale, Poulsbo, <br> </font>RE/MAX Town & Country, 5246 Olympic Dr NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98335 <br> Contents Copyright © 2007 BuyersRep.net <br> <a target="_blank" href="listings.asp"><font size="2" color="#000000">Click Here to view my Gig Harbor Real Estate Listings</font></a><br>  </p> <ul> <li> <p align="left"><font size="2">First Time Home Buyer? <a href="10steps-to-buying-a-home.asp">Confused About The Home Buying Process?</a></font></li> <li> <p align="left"><font size="2">Why you need an <a href="#agents">Agent / Advocate</a> Working For You! </font></li> <li> <p align="left"><font size="2">What is a <a href="abr.asp">“Buyer Agent”?</a> </font></li> <li> <p align="left"><font size="2"><a href="10steps-to-buying-a-home.asp">Ten Steps To Buying A Home</a></font></li> </ul> <p align="left"><font size="2">For many years, it was common for all Gig Harbor area real estate <a name="agents">agents</a> to only represent the Seller of a property in Puget Sound. Even Real Estate agents who did not list the property for sale. This was called “sub-agency”. In those days, no one represented the interests of the “Buyer” in a Real Estate transaction, not even the Real Estate agent working with the Buyer to find a home near Bremerton, Silverdale or Poulsbo.</font></p> <p align="left"><font size="2">As you may conclude, real estate transactions favored the Seller in all cases… Finally, in the mid 90’s the Washington state legislature passed new laws allowing real estate agents who did not represent the seller to be a buyer advocate (Buyers agent). A great improvement for the Buyers.</font></p> <p align="left"><font size="2">The National Association of Realtors came up with a special designation called (ABR) Accredited Buyers Representative. Through special training, agents were trained on this new principle in real estate that was quite different from what they had been practicing for many years. Buyers & Sellers have very different needs in a real estate transaction.</font></p> <p align="left"><font size="2">Many agents, even today have not taken the special training offered by our National Association. In Washington State, by virtue of the new law, it is ‘assumed’ that if you are buying a property and working with an agent, that agent represents your interests… But are they trained to do so? Many are not.</font></p> <p align="left"> <font size="2">If you look at my <a href="aboutus.asp">credentials</a>, you will see I hold the ABR designation as well as several others. I was among the very first in the country to obtain the ABR designation. I’ve chosen to be the most highly trained and professional agent possible to assist my clients in the purchase of their homes.</font><p align="left"> <font size="2">Why would you want to work with someone who is anything less?</font><p align="left"> <font size="2">You have my personal guarantee that I will provide you with only the highest level of services. When buying a home from me you are getting nothing less than what I’ve learned in my 15 years selling real estate and the special advanced education I have received…</font><p align="left"> <font size="2">I welcome you as a client, customer and friend.</font></center> <h2>What is a Real Estate Buyer's Agent?</h2> <p>A real estate buyer's agent represents the consumer who is purchasing the property in the Gig Harbor real estate transaction. This agent owes full fiduciary responsibilities, duties and loyalty to the real estate buyer. The buyer's agent works for the buyer client and has the client's best interest in mind throughout the entire real estate transaction process.<br> <br> The buyer agent is usually compensated by the seller based on the sale price of the real estate property. In some cases, buyer agents may be compensated by the buyer through the use of a Buyer Agency Agreement. It is important for the consumer to discuss the buyer's agent compensation in the initial interview. It is recommended that the consumer and buyer agent agree to the terms of compensation prior to viewing real estate properties and sign a written agreement based on these terms. This agreement should spell out the responsibilities of both parties throughout the real estate transaction. It is important to note that in some states, legislation has been enacted to protect the buyer to the point that absent a written agreement the agent represents the buyer throughout the real estate transaction.<br> <br> Consult your local REALTOR® for complete details when you first start the search for purchasing any real estate property.</p> <h2>Accredited Buyer Representative</h2> <p>To become an "Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) you must first meet specific criteria showing experience working with previous buyers and then take and pass an extensive training class. Not all agents are willing to make this commitment. Douglas has dedicated himself to keeping up to date on all aspects of buyer representation. <br> <br> <br> A Buyers Representative works throughout the entire home finding & purchase negotiations as your personal advisor. Thus making sure that all the aspects of the transaction are completed and that you are kept informed throughout your home buying process.<br> <br> All "Accredited Buyer Representatives" are members of their Local, State and National Association of Realtors and practice the Realtors Code of Ethics.</p> <p> </p> <p><b><span style="font-size:18.0pt;font-family:Arial">What is a Real Estate Buyer's Agent?</span></b> </p> <p><span style="font-family:Arial">A real estate buyer's agent represents the consumer who is purchasing the property in the real estate transaction. The buyer's agent works for the buyer client and has the client's best interest in mind throughout the entire real estate transaction process.</span><br> <br> <b><span style="font-size:18.0pt; font-family:Arial">Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR)</span></b></p> <span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: Arial">To become an "Accredited Buyer Representative” (ABR) you must first meet specific criteria showing experience working with previous buyers and then take and pass an extensive training class. Not all agents are willing to make this commitment. Douglas has dedicated himself to keeping up to date on all aspects of Buyer Representation.<br> <br> When looking for a home for sale in Gig Harbor, Silverdale, Bremerton or anywhere in Kitsap County including Naval Base Kitsap which includes Bangor or the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, use a trained real estate specialist who is keeping your best interest in mind.</span><p> </p> <p><font face="Arial">Whatever your mortgage needs, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage and  SHAUNA SCHRAFT offer home financing solutions for homebuyers or homeowners looking to refinance in Serving Gig Harbor and the Peninsula and Gig Harbor, Washington</font></p> <p><font face="Arial">Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Wells Fargo mortgage, home financing, home loans, Home Financing, Home Mortgage Financing, Well Fargo mortgage lending, wells Fargo home loans, Wells Fargo Home Loans, well Fargo home mortgage, Well Fargo Home Mortgage Loans, MORTGAGE LOANS, home financing, HOME LOANS, mortgage, HOME FINANCING, HOME MORTGAGE, Washington (WA) Home Financing, Washington (WA) home loan, Washington (WA) mortgage</font></p> <h1 align="center">Buyers Rep, ABR<br> Real Estate Web Directory</h1> <p align="center"><font color="#000000">Gig Harbor real estate listings, Doug Wray is a buyer rep, who can assist with Puget Sound navy relocation, Washington state real estate, Washington waterfront, homes for sale, for sale by owner, and home buying in the Kitsap peninsula area.</font></p> <p align="left">Naval Base Kitsap, is a US Navy base located on the Kitsap Peninsula in Washington state. It was created by merging Naval Station Bremerton with Naval Submarine Base Bangor.  The Mission of Naval Base Kitsap is to serve as the base for the Navy’s fleet throughout Puget Sound including surface ships and submarines in Bremerton and Bangor. Naval Base Kitsap is the largest naval organization in the Northwest Navy Region and includes navy bases in Bremerton, Bangor and Keyport.  Naval Base Kitsap relocation assistance may be found on this website.</p> <h1 align="center">Gig Harbor Real Estate<br>  Serving the Tacoma, WA, Gig Harbor, WA, Fox Island, WA, Key Peninsula, WA, and Washington State areas</h1> <p align="left"> Doug Wray, buyer rep, can assist you in moving from your current home to another.  A quality military relocation specialist, Doug can help military and navy families move or relocate to a new sub base in the Gig Harbor, Bremerton ship yard, Bangor sub base and Puget Sound area.  ReMax RE/MAX Town & Country Agent.</p> <p align="left"> This website specialized in Buyers agents, brokers, Buyer Rep, ABR, Buyers representative, referral, referring agent, for the Fox Island, Gig Harbor real estate, <font color="#000000">Gig Harbor real estate, Doug Wray buyer rep, Puget Sound, buyers rep Washington real estate, Washington waterfront, homes for sale, for sale by owner, top agent home buying </font>Tacoma homes for sale, Key Peninsula, Washington, Real estate market.  </p> <p align="left"> Regarding Gig Harbor real estate, it is hard to find a home for sale in the Fox Island, Gig Harbor, Key Peninsula, Washington, Tacoma, area.  Bremerton real estate is a bit easier to find.  Codwell Banker Gig Harbor Realtors can help you find homes for sale, properties available, acreage, land, apartments, for sale by owner.</p> <p align="left"> Agents, brokers, buyer agent, buyer rep, developments, condo, Western Washington, Puget Sound waterfront properties, Pierce County, Kitsap County, waterfront, Kitsap Peninsula, Pacific Northwest, realtor, agent, chemical sensitivity, sensitive, Doug Wray, Douglas Wray, Codwell Banker, Doug Wray, buyer rep.  Associate, Associate Broker, Fox Island homes for sale, Gig Harbor real estate, Tacoma real estate.</p> <p align="left">Buyers Rep, ABR<br> Real Estate Web Directory <br> <br> Gig Harbor real estate, Douglas Wray, buyer agent, Puget Sound, buyers rep, buyer broker, Real estate Buyer Consultant, First Time Home Buyer, buyer, buyer agent, Washington real estate, Washington waterfront, homes for sale, for sale by owner, top agent home buying<br> <br> Gig Harbor Real Estate<br> Serving the Tacoma, WA, Gig Harbor, WA, Fox Island, WA, Key Peninsula, WA, Silverdale WA, Bremerton WA, Poulsbo WA, Port Orchard WA, Naval Base Kitsap and Washington State areas <br> <br> Douglas Wray, buyer agent, can assist you in moving from your current home to another. A quality military relocation specialist, Douglas can help military and navy families move or relocate to Gig Harbor, Bremerton, Naval Base Kitsap, Puget Sound Naval Ship Yard, Bangor sub base and Puget Sound area. ReMax RE/MAX Town & Country Agent.<br> This website specialized in Buyers agents, brokers, Buyer agent, Buyer Rep, ABR, Buyers representative, referral, referring agent, for the Fox Island, Gig Harbor real estate, Gig Harbor real estate, Kitsap County real estate including Silverdale, Bremerton, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, Beautiful Bainbridge Island. Douglas Wray buyer agent, Puget Sound, buyers rep Washington real estate, Washington waterfront, homes for sale, for sale by owner, top agent home buying Tacoma homes for sale, Key Peninsula, Washington, Real estate market. <br> Regarding Gig Harbor real estate, it is hard to find a home for sale in the Fox Island, Gig Harbor, Key Peninsula, Washington, Tacoma, area. Bremerton real estate is a bit easier to find. Caldwell Banker Gig Harbor Realtors can help you find homes for sale, properties available, acreage, land, apartments, for sale by owner. RE/MAX Town & Country agents work hard for their clients with the highest level of training and ethics.</p> <p align="left">Agents, brokers, buyer agent, buyer rep, developments, condo, Western Washington, Puget Sound waterfront properties, Pierce County, Kitsap County, waterfront, Kitsap Peninsula, Pacific Northwest, realtor, agent, chemical sensitivity, sensitive, Doug Wray, Douglas Wray, Caldwell Banker, RE/MAX Town & Country, buyer rep, Buyer agent, Associate, Sales Associate, Broker, Fox Island homes for sale, Gig Harbor real estate, Tacoma real estate. Kitsap County real estate, Navy Relocation, Bangor Sub Base, Naval Base Kitsap</p> <p align="center"><b>Puget Sound, Pacific Northwest, Gig Harbor Homes for Sale<br> Fox Island Real Estate<br> Buyers Rep<br> Buyers Agent </b></p> <p align="left">The specific areas of expertise are as follows: Fox Island real estate listings, Gig Harbor real estate, 98335 Key Peninsula 98329, Washington waterfront, Tacoma, real estate, realtors, homes for sale, properties available, acreage, land, apartments, for sale by owner, agents, brokers, buyers agent, developments, condo, Western Washington, Puget Sound, Pierce County, Kitsap County, waterfront, Kitsap Peninsula, Pacific Northwest. Doug is a realtor, agent, who knows chemical sensitivity, and sensitive issues. He goes by Doug Wray, Douglas, or Douglas Wray. An Assist manager, mentor and trainer for ReMax RE/MAX Town & Country, RE/MAX Town & Country in Gig Harbor. If you are looking for horse acreage, views of Mt. Rainier, view property, ReMax Town & Country can help. Caldwell Banker, Gig Harbor, or RE/MAX Town & Country, covers Mason County, Thurston County, King County, Commercial real estate, Caldwell, Waterfront, water view. Purdy Listing Agent, Buyers Agent, free local information about Hood Canal, South Shore, North Shore, Mt. Rainier view, Olympics, Cascades, Silverdale, Port Orchard, Kingston, Bremerton ship yard, Naval Base Kitsap, Southworth, Belfair, Union and Poulsbo. Find out more about Listing, Selling, Buyers rep. <br> We have Buyers agents, brokers, a Buyers Rep, ABR, Buyers representative, real estate referral, referring agent for the Fox Island, Gig Harbor, Silverdale, Bremerton, Poulsbo, Port Orchard, real estate areas. Tacoma real estate, Key Peninsula homes for sale in the Washington state real estate market. Realtors, Gig Harbor homes for sale, 98335, view properties available. Gig Harbor real estate, Douglas Wray buyer rep, Puget Sound homes for sale, buyers rep. Washington real estate, Washington waterfront, homes for sale, for sale by owner, top agent home buying Gig Harbor acreage, Gig Harbor real estate, 98335, land, apartments, for sale by owner, Gig Harbor real estate developments, condo, Western Washington. Puget Sound properties, Pierce County, Kitsap County waterfront, Pacific Northwest, realtor, agent, sensitive, associate, horse, acreage, view, property. Serving the following zip codes: 98466, 98333, 98332, 98335, 98329, 98349, 98346, 98366, 98367, 98370 <br> ReMax Town & Country, Gig Harbor, Mason County, Thurston County, King County, commercial listings, Caldwell Banker, Waterfront acreage, water view homes, Purdy, military, listing, free information, Hood Canal, South Shore, Mt. Rainier, Olympics, Cascades, Silverdale, port Orchard, Kingston, Bremerton ship yard, listing, selling, <br> Douglas Wray Buyers Rep <br> <br> Realtors, homes for sale, properties available, acreage, land, apartments, for sale by owner, real estate developments, condo, Western Washington, Puget Sound properties, Pierce County, Kitsap County waterfront, Pacific Northwest, RE/MAX Town & Country realtor, agent, sensitive, associate, horse, acreage, view, property. Gig Harbor real estate, Douglas Wray buyer rep, Puget Sound, buyers rep Washington real estate, Washington waterfront, homes for sale, for sale by owner, top agent home buying 98466, 98333, 98332, 98335, 98329, 98349, 98346, 98366, 98367, 98370.<br> Buyers agents, brokers, Buyers Rep, ABR, Buyers representative, referral, referring agent, for the Naval Base Kitsap, PSNS, Fox Island, Gig Harbor, Tacoma, Key Peninsula, Washington, Real estate market. Realtors, homes for sale, properties available. Acreage, land, apartments, for sale by owner. Real estate developments, condo, Western Washington, Puget Sound properties, Pierce County, Kitsap County waterfront, Pacific Northwest, realtor, agent, sensitive, associate, horse, acreage, view, property. <br> Bremerton Naval Ship Yard Real Estate <br> <br> ReMax Town & Country Gig Harbor, Mason, Thurston, King, commercial listings, Caldwell Banker, Waterfront acreage, water view homes, Purdy, military, listing, free information, Hood, Canal, South Shore, Mt. Rainier, Olympics, Cascades, Silverdale, port Orchard, Kingston, Bremerton ship yard, listing, selling, Sub Base Bangor, Naval Base Kitsap.<br> Agents, brokers, buyers, buyer, rep, ABR, representative, referral, referring, agent, fox, island, gig, harbor, key, peninsula, Washington, WA, Tacoma, real, estate, realtors, home, homes, for, sale, properties, available, acreage, land, apartments, by, owner, developments, condo, western, Washington, Puget, sound, pierce, county, Kitsap, county, Mason County, waterfront, pacific, Gig Harbor real estate, Douglas Wray buyer rep, Puget Sound, buyers rep Washington real estate. Buyers Agent Washington Real Estate, <br> Washington waterfront homes for sale, for sale by owner, top agent home buying northwest, realtor, sensitive, associate, horse, acreage, view, property, RE/MAX Town & Country, mason, Thurston, king, commercial, Caldwell, waterfront, water, view, Purdy, military, listing, free, information, hood, canal, south, shore, Mt. Rainier, Olympics, cascades, Silverdale, port, orchard, Kingston, Bremerton ship yard, listing, selling, move, moving, FSBO, for sale by owner, military, navy, sub, subs, help, assist, assistance, condo, condos, transfer, transferring, 98466, 98333, 98332, 98335, 98329, 98349, 98346, 98366, 98367, 98370, 98383. <br> (253) 853-2244 Cell (253) 225-1727 Fax (253) 851-7130 Serving Pierce & Kitsap Counties, Including, Tacoma, Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, Silverdale, Bremerton and Poulsbo, Naval Base Kitsap. Douglas Wray is an Accredited Buyer Representative, a Military Relocation Specialist, an e-Pro Internet Professional<br> <br> Douglas Wray is a Certified E-Pro <br> The e-PRO Certification Course is an educational program unlike any other professional certification or designation course available, comprehensive and Interactive. It is sponsored by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of REALTORS® and is specifically designed to help real estate professionals thrive in the competitive world of online real estate.<br> <br> Sales Awards<br> Douglas Wray has been awarded the Coldwell Banker International Diamond Society Award in 1998 - 1999 - 2000 – 2001 – 2003 – 2004 – 2005 - 2006 <br> <br> Awarded to sales associates who close over 32 Total Units in a calendar year.<br>  </p> <h1 align="center">Puget Sound, Pacific Northwest, Gig Harbor Homes for Sale<br> Fox Island Real Estate<br> Buyers Rep</h1> <p><font size="2">The specific areas of expertise are as follows: Fox Island real estate listings, Gig Harbor real estate, 98335 Key Peninsula 98329, Washington waterfront, Tacoma, real estate, realtors, homes for sale, properties available, acreage, land, apartments, for sale by owner, agents, brokers, buyers agent, developments, condo, Western Washington, Puget Sound, Pierce County, Kitsap County, waterfront, Kitsap Peninsula, Pacific Northwest. Doug is a realtor, agent, who knows chemical sensitivity, and sensitive issues.  He goes by Doug Wray, Douglas, or Doug Wray.  An Associate, Associate Broker with ReMax Town & Country in Gig Harbor. If you are looking for horse acreage, views of Mt. Rainier, view property, RE/MAX Town & Country can help. Codwell Banker, Gig Harbor, or ReMax Town & Country,  covers Mason county, Thurston County, King County, Commercial real estate, Caldwell, Waterfront, water view.  Purdy Listing Agent, Buyers Agent, free local information about Hood Canal, South Shore, Mt. Rainier view, Olympics, Cascades, Silverdale, Port Orchard, Kingston, Bremerton ship yard, Southworth, Belfair, Union and Poulsbo.  Find out more about Listing, Selling, Buyers rep.  </font> <p> <font size="2">We have Buyers agents, brokers, a Buyers Rep, ABR, Buyers representative, real estate referral, referring agent for the Fox Island, Gig Harbor real estate areas.  Tacoma real estate, Key Peninsula homes for sale in the Washington state real estate market.  Realtors, Gig Harbor homes for sale, 98335, view properties available. <font color="#000000"> Gig Harbor real estate, Doug Wray buyer rep, Puget Sound homes for sale, buyers rep.  Washington real estate, Washington waterfront, homes for sale, for sale by owner, top agent home buying </font>Gig Harbor acreage, Gig Harbor real estate, 98335, land, apartments, for sale by owner, Gig Harbor real estate developments, condo, Western Washington.  Puget Sound properties, Pierce County, Kitsap County waterfront, Pacific Northwest, realtor, agent, sensitive, associate, horse, acreage, view, property.  Serving the following zip codes: 98466, 98333, 98332, 98335, 98329, 98349, 98346, 98366, 98367, 98370 </font> <p> <font size="2">RE/MAX Town & Country Gig Harbor, Mason County, Thurston County, King County, commercial listings, Caldwell Banker, Waterfront acreage, water view homes, Purdy, military, listing, free information, Hood Canal, South Shore, Mt. Rainier, Olympics, Cascades, Silverdale, port Orchard, Kingston, Bremerton ship yard, listing, selling, </font> <h1 align="left">  Doug Wray Buyers Rep</h1> <p> <font size="2">Realtors, homes for sale, properties available, acreage, land, apartments, for sale by owner, real estate developments, condo, Western Washington, Puget Sound properties, Pierce County, Kitsap County waterfront, Pacific Northwest, Codwell Banker realtor, agent, sensitive, associate, horse, acreage, view, property.  <font color="#000000">Gig Harbor real estate, Doug Wray buyer rep, Puget Sound, buyers rep Washington real estate, Washington waterfront, homes for sale, for sale by owner, top agent home buying </font>98466, 98333, 98332, 98335, 98329, 98349, 98346, 98366, 98367, 98370.</font><p> <font size="2">Buyers agents, brokers, Buyers Rep, ABR, Buyers representative, referral, referring agent, for the Fox Island, Gig Harbor, Tacoma, Key Peninsula, Washington, Real estate market.  Realtors, homes for sale, properties available.  Acreage, land, apartments, for sale by owner.   Real estate developments, condo, Western Washington, Puget Sound properties, Pierce County, Kitsap County waterfront, Pacific Northwest, realtor, agent, sensitive, associate, horse, acreage, view, property. </font> <h2> Bremerton Ship Yard Real Estate</h2> <p> <font size="2">ReMax Town & Country Gig Harbor, Mason, Thurston, King, commercial listings, Caldwell Banker, Waterfront acreage, water view homes, Purdy, military, listing, free information, Hood, Canal, South Shore, Mt. Rainier, Olympics, Cascades, Silverdale, port Orchard, Kingston, Bremerton ship yard, listing, selling,</font><p><font size="2" color="#000000">Agents, brokers, buyers, buyer, rep, ABR, representative, referral, referring, agent, fox, island, gig, harbor, key, peninsula, Washington, WA, Tacoma, real, estate, realtors, home, homes, for, sale, properties, available, acreage, land, apartments, by, owner, developments, condo, western, Washington, Puget, sound, pierce, county, Kitsap, county, waterfront, pacific, </font><font size="2"><font color="#000000">Gig Harbor real estate, Doug Wray buyer rep, Puget Sound, buyers rep Washington real estate.</font></font><p><font size="2"><font color="#000000">Washington waterfront homes for sale, for sale by owner, top agent home buying northwest, realtor, sensitive, associate, horse, acreage, view, property, RE/MAX Town & Country, mason, Thurston, king, commercial, Caldwell, waterfront, water, view, Purdy, military, listing, free, information, hood, canal, south, shore, Mt. Rainier, Olympics, cascades, Silverdale, port, orchard, Kingston, Bremerton ship yard, listing, selling, move, moving, FSBO, for sale by owner, military, navy, sub, subs, help, assist, assistance, condo, condos, transfer, transferring, </font>98466, 98333, 98332, 98335, 98329, 98349, 98346, 98366, 98367, 98370<font color="#000000">.</font> </font> <p>(253) 853-2244 Cell (253) 225-1727 Fax (253) 851-7130 When no less than the best will do, call Doug Wray! Serving Pierce & Kitsap Counties, Including, Tacoma, Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, Silverdale, Bremerton and Poulsbo. Doug Wray is an Accredited Buyer Representative, a Military Relocation Specialist, an e-Pro Internet Professional,<br>  </p> <p> </p> <p><b><span style="font-size:18.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:red">The 10 Steps To Buying A Home</span></b><span style="color:red"> </span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Arial"> </span></p> <p style="text-indent: -.25in; margin-left: .5in"><b> <span style="font-family: Arial">1.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"">      </span></span><span style="font-family:Arial">Are You Ready?</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial"><br> One of the keys to making the home buying process easier and more understandable is planning. In doing so, you'll be able to anticipate requests from lenders and a host of other professionals.<br> <br> <b>Do You Know What You Want?</b><br> Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or entering the marketplace as a repeat buyer, you need to ask why you want to buy. Are you planning to move to a new community due to a lifestyle change or is buying an option and not a requirement? What would you like in terms of real estate that you do not now have? Do you have a purchasing timeframe?<br> <br> Whatever your answers, the more you know about the real estate marketplace, the more likely you are to effectively define your goals. As an interesting exercise, it can be worthwhile to look at the questions above and to then discuss them in detail when meeting with your Buyers Agent.<br> <br> <b>Do You Have The Money?</b><br> Homes and financing are closely intertwined. The good news is that over the years new and innovative loan programs have evolved which require a 5 percent down payment or less. In fact, a number of programs now allow purchasers to buy real estate with nothing down.<br> In addition to a down payment, purchasers also need cash for closing costs (the final costs associated with closing the loan). Several newly emerging loan programs not only allow the purchase of a home with no money down, but also underwrite closing costs.<br> Not everyone, however, elects to purchase with little or no money down. Less money down means higher monthly mortgage payments, so most homebuyers choose to buy with some cash up front.<br> As to closing costs, in markets where buyers have leverage, it may be possible to negotiate an offer for a home that requires the owner to pay some or all of your settlement expenses.<br> <br> <b>Is Your Financial House in Order?</b><br> Those great loans with little or nothing down are not available to everyone: You need good credit. For at least one year prior to purchasing a home, you should assure that every credit card bill, rent check, car payment and other debt is paid in full and on time.  Your Buyers Agent can recommend a good mortgage person that you can talk with and will answer all your financing questions.</span></p> <p style="text-indent: -.25in; margin-left: .5in"><b> <span style="font-family: Arial">2.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"">      </span></span><span style="font-family:Arial">Get Loan Pre-approval</span></b><span style="font-family:Arial"><br> <b><br> What is “Pre-Approval” ?</b><br> "Pre-approval" means you have met with a loan officer, your credit files have been reviewed and the loan officer believes you can readily qualify for a given loan amount with one or more specific mortgage programs. Based on this information, the lender will provide a pre-approval letter, which shows your borrowing power.<br> <br> Although not a final loan commitment, the pre-approval letter can be shown to listing brokers when bidding on a home. It demonstrates your financial strength and shows that you have the ability to go through with a purchase. This information is important to owners since they do not want to accept an offer that is likely to fail because financing cannot be obtained.<br> <br> How do you get pre-approval?<br> Real estate financing is available from numerous sources, your Buyers Agent can recommend several mortgage companies that based on his or her experience has a history of offering competitive programs and delivering promised rates and terms.<br> <br> The loan officer will carefully review your financial situation, including your credit report and other information. The lender will then suggest programs which most-closely meet your needs. Typically, first-time buyers opt for the traditional 30-year loan, with either a floating interest rate or a fixed rate of interest over the life of the loan.</span></p> <p style="text-indent: -.25in; margin-left: .5in"><b> <span style="font-family: Arial">3.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"">      </span></span><span style="font-family:Arial">Get a REALTOR®</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial"><br> Remember, not all real estate agents are REALTORS®. REALTORS® subscribe to a Code of Conduct that assures proper training and conduct.  More than 2 million people in the United States have earned real estate licenses. However, real estate is a tough business with a steep dropout rate, and the result is that only a small percentage of those with licenses actively help buyers and sellers.<br> <br> <br> <b>What should you expect?</b> (Working with Buyers Agent)<br> Once you select a Buyers Agent you will want to establish a proper business relationship. You likely know that some REALTORS® represent Sellers while others represent Buyers. The Buyers Agent will explain the options available, describe how he or she typically works with individuals and provide you with complete agency disclosures (the ins and outs of your relationship with the agent) as required in Washington State.<br> <br> Once hired for the job your Buyers Agent will provide you with information detailing current market conditions, financing options and negotiating issues that might apply to a given situation. Remember: Because market conditions can change and the strategies that apply in one negotiation may be inappropriate in another, this information should not be set in stone. During your time in the marketplace Buyers Agent will keep you updated and alert you to each step in the transaction process<br> <br> <b>4. Looking at Homes</b><br> Some 6 million new and existing homes are sold each year. Although the number of homes vary depending on current market conditions, the challenge becomes finding the property in your price range which best meets your needs.<br> <br> The housing market is complicated because the stock of homes for sale is always in flux. If it were possible to have a complete list of every home for sale at this very moment in a given community, such a list would become obsolete within seconds as new homes become available and properties now for sale are put under contract.<br> <br> In effect, buyers are looking at a moving target in a marketplace that is never static. Because of this, it is important to know as much as possible about the choices in preferred markets, and the way to do that is by working closely with a local Buyers Agent who has a good "lay of the land."<br> <br> <b>What are you looking for?</b><br> A home is more than just a collection of bedrooms and bathrooms. Several properties -- each with four bedrooms, three baths, and the same price -- may well represent radically different designs, commuting distances, lot sizes, tax costs, interior dimensions, and exterior finishes.<br> <br> Each of us is different and so it's important to list the features and benefits you want in a home. Consider such things as pricing, location, size, amenities (extras such as a privacy or extra-large kitchen) and design (one floor or two, colonial or modern, etc.).<br> <br> Next, it's important to consider your priorities. If you can't get a home at your price with all the features you want, then what features are most important? For instance, would you trade fewer bedrooms for a larger kitchen? A longer commute for a bigger lot and lower cost?<br> <br> Lastly, consider your needs in several years. If you'll need a larger home, maybe now is the time to buy a bigger house rather than moving or expanding in the future. If you expect your income to increase, perhaps you should consider a more expensive home financed with a loan program where monthly payments increase in the future.<br> <br> <b>Where should you look?</b><br> All neighborhoods and communities have a special nature that gives them identity and value. One community may be well known for historic homes while another offers both suburban living as well as easy access to downtown office areas.<br> <br> <b>How do you find a house?</b><br> Some buyers like to search internet web sites and looking at listings on the basis of location or price; others prefer to have local Buyers Agent suggest properties; and many buyers prefer both approaches. <br> <br> Regardless of your choice, it's important to target your search. By using basic measures such as general location and affordability, you can refine your search and focus on homes that offer the most desirable features.<br> <br> As a guide, you should maintain a file with information on each of the homes you like. You can print out listing pages from most real estate web sites and then make notes for each one -- what you like, questions for your Buyers Agent etc.<br> <br> <b>5. Choose a Home</b><br> There's no doubt that choosing a home is a big decision and you want to do it right.<br> <br> As a buyer, here's what actually happens. A home has been placed on the market for which the seller has established an asking price as well as other terms. In effect, this is an offer. At this point, you have three choices: accept the seller's offer and create a contract; reject it and not make an offer; or suggest different terms and make a counter-offer. If you choose this last option, the seller may accept, reject or make a counter-offer.<br> <br> No aspect of the home buying process is more complex, personal or variable than bargaining between buyers and sellers. This is the point where the value of an experienced Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) is clearly evident because he or she knows the community, has seen numerous homes for sale, knows local values and has spent years negotiating realty transactions. Insist on using a professional Buyers Agent. The ABR designation shows that this agent has gone above the normal agent and has been specifically trained to represent the needs of the homebuyer.<br> <br> <b>Is it THE house?</b><br> A house is shelter, but a home is far more. It's where you live, relax, entertain friends, raise families, and work. A home is where you spend much of your life, and so choosing a house is an enormous decision.<br> <br> <b>How do you know if a house is THE one?</b> Probably the best approach is to look at as many homes as possible, something made easy by your association with a (ABR), where you can quickly and easily view huge numbers of homes, check prices, take video tours and view extensive neighborhood information. Once your choices have been narrowed, you can then ask your REALTOR® to find specific information and options<br> <br> <b>Can you really afford it?</b><br> Remember Step 2 - the pre-approval process? Getting pre-approved means you have a very good idea of how much you can borrow, what loan programs will most likely work best in your situation and how much home you can afford.<br> <br> How reliable is a pre-approval? While pre-approval is not a loan commitment, it's still necessary for lenders to check such items as appraisals and the latest credit reports. Despite fluctuating interest rates, pre-approval nonetheless provides a reasoned, careful analysis of what you can afford. After all, loan officers are routinely paid only when loans are originated. It doesn't make much sense for loan officers to suggest high loan limits that later can't be delivered.<br> <br> <b>6. Get Funding</b><br> Often the cost of real estate financing is routinely greater than the original purchase price of a home (after including interest and closing costs). Because financing is so important, buyers should have as much information as possible regarding mortgage options and costs. All lenders are required to provide you with a "good faith estimate" showing all the lenders fees.<br> <br> Your selected lender will provide you with extensive mortgage information as well as a variety of loan calculators. Again, use the knowledge of your Buyers Agent.<br> <br> <b>What kind of loan?</b><br> There are thousands of loans available out there from a variety of lenders, but in general, the mortgage you choose will likely be determined by at your loan officer after reviewing all your financial history.</span></p> <blockquote> <span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: Arial">Are you a first-time buyer? It might seem that "first-time buyer" means someone who has never owned property before, but under most state programs, the term refers to those who have not owned property within the past three years. State-backed first-timer programs often feature smaller down payments and below-market interest rates.<br> <br> <b>How do you get a loan?</b><br> To obtain a loan you must complete a written loan application and provide supporting documentation. Specific documents include recent pay stubs, rental checks and tax returns for the past two or three years if you are self-employed. During the pre-qualification procedure, the loan officer will describe the type of paperwork required.<br> <br> <b>Where do you get a loan?</b><br> Mortgage financing can be obtained from mortgage bankers, mortgage brokers, savings and loan associations and credit unions.<br> <br> <b>8. Get Homeowners Insurance</b><br> No one would drive a car without insurance, so it figures that no homeowner should be without insurance.<br> <br> The essential idea behind various forms of real estate insurance is to protect owners in the event of catastrophe. If something goes wrong, insurance can be the bargain of a lifetime.<br> <br> Title insurance: Purchased with a one-time fee at closing, title insurance protects owners in the event that title to the property is found to be invalid. Coverage includes "lenders" policies, which protect buyers up to the mortgage value of the property, and "owners" coverage, which protects owners up to the purchase price. In other words, "owners" coverage protects both the mortgage amount and the value of the down payment.<br> <br> Homeowners' insurance provides fire, theft and liability coverage. Homeowners' policies are required by lenders and often cover a surprising number of items, including in some cases such property as wedding rings, furniture and home office equipment.<br> <br> <br> Warranties with new homes, buyers want assurance that if something goes wrong after completion the builder will be there to make repairs. But what if the builder refuses to do the work or goes out of business?<br> <br> Home warranties bought from third parties by home builders are generally designed to provide several forms of protection: workmanship for the first year, mechanical problems such as plumbing and wiring for the first two years, and structural defects for up to 10 years.<br> <br> Home warranties for existing homes are typically one-year service agreements purchased by sellers. In the event of a covered defect or breakdown, the warranty firm will step in and make the repair or cover its cost.<br> <br> Insurance policies and warranties have limitations and individual programs have different levels of coverage, deductibles and costs. For details, speak with Buyers Agent, insurance brokers and homebuilders.<br> <br> <b>9. Closing</b><br> The closing process, which in different parts of the country is also known as "settlement" or "escrow," is increasingly computerized and automated. In many cases, buyers and sellers don't need to attend a specific event; signed paperwork can be sent to the closing agent via overnight delivery.<br> <br> In practice, closings bring together a variety of parties who are part of the "transaction" process. For example, while the history of property ownership has been checked, it's possible that the records contain errors, unrecorded claims or flaws in the review itself, thus title insurance is necessary. At closing, transfer taxes must be paid and other claims must also be settled (including closing costs, legal fees and adjustments). In most transactions, the closing agent also completes the paperwork needed to record the loan.<br> <br> <b>What to expect.</b><br> Settlement is a brief process where all of the necessary paperwork needed to complete the transaction is signed. Closing in Washington State is held in an escrow office with each party completing their papers separately.<br> <br> The result is that title to the property is transferred from seller to buyer. The buyer receives the keys and the seller receives payment for the home. From the amount credited to the seller, the closing agent subtracts money to pay off the existing mortgage and other transaction costs. Deeds, loan papers, and other documents are prepared, signed and filed with local property record offices.<br> <br> <b>What you need to do</b>.<br> One of the best parts of settlement is that buyers and sellers need to do very little.<br> <br> Before closing, buyers typically have a final opportunity to walk through the property to assure that its condition has not materially changed since the sale agreement was signed. At closing itself, all papers have been prepared by closing agents. This paperwork reflects the sale agreement and allows all parties to the transaction to verify their interests. For instance, buyers get the title to the property, lenders have their loans recorded in the public records and state governments collect their transfer taxes.<br> <br> <b>10. What's Next?</b><br> You've done it. You've looked at properties, made an offer, obtained financing and gone to closing. The home is yours. Is there any more to the home buying process?<br> <br> Whether you're a first-time buyer or a repeat buyer, there are several more steps you'll want to take.<br> <br> Those papers you received at settlement are extremely valuable, so hold on to them! In the short-term they can help establish tax deductions for the year in which the property was purchased. In the future, such papers will be important for tax purposes when the property is sold, and in some cases, for calculating estate taxes.<br> <br> <b>Prior</b> <b>to closing,</b> determine the status of the utilities required by the home, items such as water, sewage, gas, electric and oil service. You want utility bills to be paid in full by owners as of closing and you also want services transferred to your name for billing. Usually such transfers can be done without turning off utilities. Your Buyers Agent can provide contact numbers and related information.<br> <br> About two weeks after closing, contact your local property records office and confirm that your deed has been officially recorded. Such records are public notices that show your interest in the property.<br> <br> <b>Moving in</b><br> It is generally understood that sellers will leave homes "broom clean" when moving out. This expression does not mean "vacuumed" or "spotless." Broom clean makes sense because it means the house is ready to be painted and cleaned.<br> <br> <b>Your home, your money<br> </b>For most owners a home is the largest single asset they hold, so it makes sense to protect that asset.<br> <br> Many owners make a photo or video record of the home and their possessions for insurance purposes and then keep the records in a safety deposit box. Your insurance provider can recommend what to photograph and how to secure it.<br> <br> You want to maintain fire, theft and liability insurance. As the value of your property increases such coverage should also rise. Again, speak with your insurance professional for details.<br> <br> Lastly, enjoy your home. Owning real estate involves contracts, loans, and taxes, but ultimately what's most important is that homeownership should be a wonderful experience. Enjoy!</span></blockquote> </body>