We’ll set up a meeting to discuss the neighborhoods that have caught your eye and how I can assist you in finding the perfect home. During our conversation, we'll delve into the specific details of what you're looking for, including any non-negotiables.

Additionally, we'll use this opportunity to evaluate your financial situation and budget to make sure we start our search off on the right foot and set you up for success.

Some numbers to note: condominiums generally require at least 10% down while co-ops on average require at least 20% down. Co-ops will also generally want to see a debt-to-income ratio under 30%, and 24 months of post-close liquidity.

To kickstart your home search, it's crucial to get pre-approved for a mortgage loan (unless you plan on paying the full price in cash). Don't worry, I can recommend excellent mortgage brokers who will assess your income and credit history to determine the maximum amount a bank will lend you. This will give us a clear idea of your budget, give you an estimate on monthly loan payments, and a rough idea of your closing costs. This will help narrow down the properties we'll be looking at.

As you're getting pre-approved, it's also a good idea to start researching NYC real estate attorneys. Finding the right attorney will help us hit the ground running once we find your dream property.

Go out and start looking at properties! This is the most fun part; checking out buildings, units and neighborhoods that strike a cord with you. I will set appointments for you, and attend showings with you. I’ll be there to answer questions to the sellers agent you may not know to ask, such as upcoming assessments.

Getting to see places in person is SO important, a picture can only tell you so much and getting into the space will allow you to start to picture yourself in your new home. Can you see yourself growing into the space, does the neighborhood offer you the type of lifestyle you’re looking for?

As you go out and see places, you’ll quickly begin to narrow your search.

Once you find a home you really love, it's time to make an offer! Basically, you're telling the seller how much you're willing to pay for the home. To make the offer official, you'll need to provide a Proof of Funds (POF) and a Pre-Approval Letter. Just a heads up though, if your offer is lower than what the seller wants or doesn't quite meet their terms, they might come back to you with a counter-offer. You can either accept it, reject it, or make another offer of your own. But don't worry, I'll be there to guide you through every step of this process!

Having an attorney who understands the legal aspects of purchasing a home is crucial in ensuring that your rights and interests are safeguarded. It's important to find an attorney who is familiar with the type of transaction you're involved in. Don't worry, I can recommend a list of highly respected attorneys in your area to help you with this process.

As the buyer, it is important for you to choose the inspections that you deem necessary and assess the property's overall condition within the agreed-upon timeframe and contractual contingencies. You will have the opportunity to review the disclosures and preliminary title report, and you can approve or negotiate credits/repairs if needed.

Once you've found the perfect home and signed the Purchase Agreement, it's time to work with your chosen lender to complete your mortgage application and submit all necessary documentation. Your lender will then issue loan approval and you can organize an appraisal with the bank. Once your loan is approved and you have homeowner's insurance in place, you can wire the closing funds and await clearance to close.

If you've chosen a condo or co-op, it's time to start gathering the documents needed for your board package. Don't worry, I'll be there to guide you through the process and make sure everything is in order. Once the package is submitted, the board will review it and may even request an interview. But don't stress, I'll help you prepare for the interview and give you some tips to help you make a great impression.

Just before the closing, we'll schedule a final walkthrough of the property to ensure everything is in order. This step is important as it helps us confirm that no damage has been done to the home since the inspection, and that all the major systems and appliances are still in good working order.

Once everything is in order and all contractual obligations have been fulfilled, it's time for the closing. Generally, you can anticipate your closing costs to be between 3-5% of the purchase price, depending on the type of property you are purchasing.

The closing is when all the necessary paperwork is signed, payment is made, and you'll finally receive the keys to your new home!

Congratulations on the completion of your home buying journey, you are now officially a homeowner!