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Buyer Consult 

A step by step home buyers guide 

Image by Clay Banks

Clarity and Discovery

This is where we get clear on what home looks like for you. We’ll talk through where you want to buy, the type of home that fits your lifestyle, and the features that matter most — along with the things you already know you don’t want.

If you’re still figuring some of this out, that’s completely normal. This phase is all about exploring what’s available, watching how homes are priced, and paying attention to what’s moving (and what’s not). Those patterns give us valuable insight into the market and help us build a smart, confident strategy when you’re ready to make an offer.

Confident Buying Power

We start by defining a monthly payment that feels comfortable for your life, not just the maximum number a lender might approve. That means looking at your full household picture and accounting for real homeownership costs like utilities, maintenance, HOA fees, and lifestyle changes that often get overlooked.

Once we’ve identified a budget that makes sense for you, we connect with a trusted mortgage professional to confirm what you qualify for and officially get you pre-approved. Doing this early protects you from surprises, strengthens your buying position, and ensures you’re ready to act confidently when the right home comes along.

Image by Land O'Lakes, Inc.
Image by Katya Azimova

Your Trusted Advisor

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make — and you shouldn’t have to navigate it alone. This step is about choosing someone who will advocate for you, protect your interests, and take the pressure off throughout the process.

I handle everything from identifying the right homes and scheduling showings to guiding you through offers, negotiations, and next steps. Just as important, I bring local market insight you won’t find online — helping you spot red flags, uncover great opportunities, and make smart decisions that align with both your goals and your budget.

My role is to simplify the process, provide clarity, and make sure you feel confident every step of the way — so when you find the right home, you’re ready to move forward with ease.

Image by Collov Home Design

Finding the Right Home

This is often the most exciting part of the process — and it should feel that way. Together, we’ll tour homes that align with your budget, lifestyle, and priorities, so you’re not wasting time on options that don’t truly fit.

As we walk through homes, I’ll help you look beyond first impressions and pay attention to the details that matter. We’ll note what you love, what you don’t, and how each space actually functions day to day. Just as important, we’ll look at the bigger picture — the neighborhood, traffic flow, parking, and proximity to schools, shops, and everyday conveniences.

This step is about refining your vision and making sure the home — and the location — truly support the life you want to live.

Writing a Smart Offer 

Once you’ve found the right home, we shift into strategy mode. I’ll walk you through the numbers, recent comparable sales, and current market conditions so we can craft an offer that’s competitive, thoughtful, and aligned with your goals.

Depending on the home and the market, that may mean offering below, at, or above asking — but always with intention. I’ll guide you through negotiations, counteroffers, and terms, keeping you informed and confident at every step. 

Image by Clay Banks
Image by Daniel Höhe

Protecting Your Investment

This step is designed to protect you. Once your offer is accepted, we schedule a professional home inspection to take a closer look at the property’s condition and identify any major concerns that may not be visible at first glance.

I’ll help coordinate the inspection and walk you through the results so you clearly understand what’s normal, what matters, and what may require further conversation. If issues come up, we’ll decide together whether to renegotiate, request repairs, or move on — always with your best interest in mind.

Image by Lotus Design N Print

Getting a Home Appraisal 

At this stage, your lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home’s value. This is a standard part of the process and simply ensures the price aligns with the market and the loan being issued. I’ll keep an eye on timing, review the results with you, and walk you through what it means. Most of the time, this step moves along smoothly — and once the value is confirmed, we’re one step closer to the finish line.

The Closing Table 

No one looks forward to all the paperwork involved in buying a home, but it’s a necessary part of the process. Fortunately, everything will be arranged by your lender and title company and, when you’re finished, you’ll know you are the legal owner of your new home.

Image by Clay Banks

Congragulations

The home is officially yours! This is the start of a new chapter, and I’m so honored to be part of it.

Welcome Home

Keegan Garrow
KEE To Home | BaySide Real Estate
810.964.9733
KeeganGarrowRealtor@gmail.com

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