Verani Realty Publications Real Estate Buyers Guide | Page 17

  Making Your Dream House Home Here are some helpful things to consider for your home purchase:  Professional inspections can reveal structural, roof, termite and other conditions with a property that may require attention. Earnest money deposits need to be given to your agent on or before the deadlines specified in the Purchase Agreement. Escrow checks are deposited and will clear through your bank. If escrow funds are paid within 5-10 business days of the scheduled closing, then the funds must be in the form of a certified check or money order. Lock interest rate and loan terms with your chosen mortgage lender. Satisfy remaining contract conditions on or before the deadlines specified in the Purchase Agreement. Contingencies should be released in writing and signed by both parties. A home warranty plan can give you peace of mind by providing repair-orreplace coverage of major home operating systems and appliances.  Communicate frequently with your mortgage lender to ensure appraisals, credit, income and asset verifications, title search and other loan conditions are completed in a timely manner. Verify you can obtain Hazard Insurance on the property and arrange for a prepaid homeowners insurance binder. If possible, leave flexibility in moving dates in case of unforeseen delays with financing, title or other potential issues. A financing commitment or approval means that the borrower meets the lender's qualification requirements and also its underwriting requirements. Review any conditions carefully with your mortgage lender before you remove your financing contingency from the contract. A preliminary title report informs you of any issues with the property’s title, and a policy of title insurance protects your rights to the property.  A walk-through before closing allows you to make sure the property is being delivered in an agreed upon condition. Verify with your mortgage lender what funds you need for closing, what form of payment is acceptable and what funds you need to have in reserves (savings) at closing. Final time and place for the settlement will be confirmed by the lender and a designated title company once final contingencies, financing and title policies are in place. Keys are customarily delivered once the settlement papers are signed, the new deed is recorded and the closing has been fully funded.   www.verani.com 17