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Buyer's Guide

Why Compass for Buying?

The Compass Advantage

Buying Process

Whether it’s your first home or if you’re an experienced buyer, purchasing a home is a complex process. By working with me, you’ll find a home in the neighborhood where you want to live, one that fits your budget and meets your goals for features, quality and value. Once you’ve found the home that’s right for you, I will guide you through the process of making an offer; negotiating the terms of the sale; getting your potential purchase inspected, repaired and appraised; and closing the sale.

Determine Your Wants and Needs​​​​​

This is the single most important step. By asking you a series of questions we will establish what you are looking for. My goal is to not waste your time by looking at properties that are not in your price range or homes that don't meet your needs. Throughout the buying process we will maintain your confidentiality and represent your best interests.

Know the Right Neighborhoods and Market Place

Clients generally have an initial idea of what cities and neighborhoods appeal most to them. However, you should examine your criteria to determine the areas within the neighborhoods you feel are a good match.

Our agents will personally take you to some of the neighborhoods, give you an overview of the area, and show a few representative homes. More importantly, our agents will provide you with information about local schools, parks, and appreciation potential of each area. Generally, clients should not purchase a home until they are familiar with the neighborhoods and have seen enough properties to truly recognize an excellent fit.

Get Pre-Approved

Getting pre-approved by a local lender or mortgage broker is one of the first things you should do for many reasons. In Silicon Valley, a pre-approval letter is a prerequisite for serious consideration of your offer. Knowing the available loan amount will aid in determining how much you intend to spend on your home and which neighborhoods to consider.

Generally, you should begin the pre-approval process immediately after meeting with your agent. If any issues come up, such as inaccuracies that make your credit score lower than expected, you will have time to resolve them. Our agents can help you through this process and recommend excellent lenders and mortgage brokers. Our recommendations are completely free of any conflict of interest; our agents do not benefit monetarily from providing recommendations.

Searching for Your New Home

Once you have been pre-approved you are ready to begin house shopping!

Download Our Buyer's Guide

Discover how we're helping buyers find their place in the world every day, one home at a time

Work With Gretchen

A natural born problem solver, Gretchen is known for her resourcefulness in challenging situations. As an agent who is prepared for all situations and knowledgeable in her craft, she is a huge asset to her clients and is thorough in educating them every step of the way.
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