A real estate transaction involves more than an agent and a signature. A lender, a title company, an inspector, an insurance provider and sometimes a warranty company, contractor or photographer each handle a piece of the work, and the order in which they step in matters.
This guide explains what each professional does, when each one comes into the picture, a typical transaction timeline and the questions to ask before you hire anyone. It also includes a checklist for sellers preparing to list and a notes page to keep your team’s details in one place.
Who it is for: first-time buyers, move-up buyers, sellers preparing to list, and anyone who wants to understand the process before they begin.
What is inside
- A plain-English description of each role: agent, lender, title company, inspector, appraiser, insurance agent and more
- Questions to ask each professional before you hire them
- A typical timeline from pre-approval to closing day
- A checklist for choosing providers wisely, including your right to choose
- A seller preparation checklist
- A notes page for names, numbers and key dates
- How to use the Keller Williams Memorial Preferred Partners directory as a starting point
Questions this guide answers
- Who do I talk to first when I want to buy?
- What does a title company actually do?
- When does the inspection happen?
- Why does the lender order an appraisal?
- Do I need flood insurance?
- How do I compare lenders and title companies?
- What should sellers do before listing?
