Buying a home in ten steps

From first conversation to the keys in your hand. Marc walks you through every step, in Connecticut and New York.

1. 1

   Get your finances in order

   Talk with a lender, get pre-approved, and know your down payment, monthly comfort zone and closing costs before you fall in love with a house.

   Typical timing: 1 to 2 weeks
2. 2

   Define what you want

   List your must-haves and nice-to-haves, choose your towns, and decide how Connecticut and New York compare for your life.

   Typical timing: About 1 week
3. 3

   Build your search

   Marc sets up your personal search and alerts so new listings that fit reach you first.

   Typical timing: Ongoing
4. 4

   Tour homes with Marc

   See the short list in person. Marc points out what photos hide, from roofs and drainage to what the zoning allows.

   Typical timing: 2 to 8 weeks
5. 5

   Make an offer

   Price strategy, terms and contingencies, built around how the market is behaving right now.

   Typical timing: A few days
6. 6

   Negotiate and sign with your attorney

   Counteroffers are worked out, then your attorney prepares and reviews the contract before anything is signed.

   Typical timing: About 1 week
7. 7

   Inspection and zoning review

   Inspections, plus a look at what you can build or change on the property.

   Typical timing: 1 to 2 weeks
8. 8

   Mortgage, appraisal and title

   Your lender processes the loan while the appraisal and title search confirm the home and its ownership.

   Typical timing: 30 to 45 days
9. 9

   Final walkthrough

   One last look to confirm the home is in the agreed condition and any repairs are done.

   Typical timing: Day before closing
10. 10

    Closing and your Home Passport

    Sign, get the keys, and receive your Home Passport, a private record of your home saved in your client portal.

    Typical timing: Closing day