Buyer's Guide

Your first stop is choosing a buyer’s agent, whether that be based on recommendations from friends or internet research. There are so many great agents in San Francisco that have great reputations, extensive experience, and excellent negotiation skills that my best advice is to find someone with whom you click. The buying process is intimate and can be lengthy, and you’ll need someone that you can have frank conversations with. In San Francisco, the buyer’s agent’s commission is paid by the sellers, though it’s not free--it’s baked into the price of the home.

To find your home, I encourage you to fill out the buyer questionnaire, which will help me understand what you’re looking for. I’ll set up a Compass Collection, which will send you new listings based on your criteria. When you see properties you like, or if I hear of a coming-soon or off market property that would fit your needs, we can tour them together, or you can visit the open houses on your own. I generally like to visit homes with my clients whenever possible, so that I can speak with the listing agent, catch any red flags about the property, and get a feel for what you like and don’t like about properties.

The SF market moves quickly, but it’s important to take the time to review the disclosures, the thick packet of information that accompanies every property, and includes everything from statutory disclosures to inspections to HOA meeting minutes. I like to review disclosures with my clients in detail.

The escrow process is the period of time (usually 25-30 days) during which the earnest money and downpayment are transferred, all inspections are completed (if you have a contingency), the bank works on approving the mortgage application (including an appraisal), and the title company clears the title and records the deed. The escrow company manages the deposits and holds on to the documents related to the sale of the property.

During this process, you’ll be working closely with the bank, and I’ll be behind the scenes, making sure the trains are running on time and answering any questions you have. Prior to the closing, the escrow agent will present you with scores of legal documents to review and sign, and you'll be expected to pay your downpayment and closing costs.

The closing is the day you've been waiting for: when ownership of the home officially transfers from the seller to you!