✅ Step 1: Financial Prep (Do This First)
| Action | Why It Matters | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Check credit score | Scores < 620 limit loan options | 3-6 months pre-buy |
| Save for down payment | 3.5% (FHA) vs. 20% (conventional) | 6-12 months |
| Get pre-approved | Strengthens offers; reveals budget | 1-2 weeks |
Pro Tip: Use our free Mortgage Calculator to estimate payments.
Step 2: Find the Right Team
Not all agents or lenders are equal. Through The SFields Group network, I connect buyers with:
- Top local agents with proven track records in your target neighborhoods
- Trusted lenders who offer competitive rates with transparent fees
- Certified inspectors who catch hidden issues before they become your problems
Exclusive SFields Group Resource
Download our “Vetted Vendor List” – the same local professionals we use for our own transactions
Step 3: House Hunting & Offers
Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves
| Non-Negotiables | Compromises |
|---|---|
| School district | Updated kitchen |
| 3+ bedrooms | Swimming pool |
| 15-min commute | Hardwood floors |
My Professional Negotiation Tactics:
- “Repair credits” – Often better than price reductions
- Escalation clauses – For competitive markets (with smart caps)
- Personal letters – When appropriate, they can make offers stand out
Step 4: Closing (Without Surprises)
Typical Closing Costs in Our Area
| Fee | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Loan origination | 0.5%-1% of loan |
| Title insurance | $1,200-$3,000 |
| Home inspection | $350-$600 |
Watch Out For: Last-minute “junk fees” – I review all closing statements for my clients.
Free Download: Sherrie’s Home Buyer Checklist
Get my exclusive checklist used by SFields Group clients:
- Pre-approval documents checklist
- Inspection red flags cheat sheet
- Closing day timeline + essentials
FAQs: What My Clients Ask
1. “How much should I budget beyond the purchase price?”
Plan for 3-6 months of mortgage payments in reserves + $7K-$12K for immediate repairs/updates. I provide all my referral clients with a personalized budget worksheet.
2. “What’s your #1 tip for first-time buyers?”
Don’t skip inspections! 42% of regretful buyers wish they’d been more thorough. I insist on sewer scopes for homes older than 20 years and always attend inspections with my clients.
3. “How does your referral service work?”
As a SFields Group Referral Agent, I match you with: (1) The perfect local agent for your needs, (2) My complete home-buying toolkit, and (3) Ongoing support throughout your transaction – at no extra cost to you.
About Sherrie
Sherrie is a dedicated Realtor Referral Agent with The SFields Group, specializing in connecting buyers with top-performing local agents through her extensive professional network. With 8 years of real estate experience and 200+ successful referrals, she provides clients with white-glove service while ensuring they work with the perfect local expert for their specific needs.