Buyers
Let’s get started on finding your dream home.
The Buying Process:
Choosing to buy a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your life. It’s an exciting but complex process that requires careful planning and consideration. As your REALTOR®, my goal is to use my knowledge of the market and the real estate process to guide and support you every step of the way.
To help prepare you, here is a general overview of what to expect and how to get started:
Step 1: Get Pre-Approved
The first step in the home buying journey is connecting with a mortgage broker or your bank to determine your purchasing power. Personally, I recommend working with a mortgage broker, as they have access to multiple lenders and can help tailor a mortgage product that suits your specific needs—not just in terms of interest rates, but also in aligning the mortgage terms with your family’s goals over the next 3, 5, or 7 years.
Step 2: Set Your Budget
While your pre-approval provides a maximum amount you can borrow, that number may not reflect what you’re personally comfortable spending. Take into account your lifestyle, utilities, property taxes, upkeep or strata fees and unexpected costs to establish a realistic budget that fits your long-term financial goals.
Step 3: Determine Your Needs vs. Wants
Like everything in life there is compromise; however, determining your motivation for a change and what lifestyle aspects are important will provide a less overwhelming and strategic approach to home hunting. Start by making a list of your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and deal-breakers. Knowing your motivations for moving is just as important as knowing what you want in a home. These motivations will help guide smarter and more strategic decisions throughout the process.
Step 4: Hire a REALTOR®
Most people know a REALTOR® through personal networks, or get referrals from friends and family. Choosing the right REALTOR® for you means finding someone whose communication style, skill set, and market knowledge align with your needs.
You’ll be spending a lot of time with your REALTOR®, so it’s important to work with someone you trust and feel comfortable with. I recommend interviewing a few agents before making a final decision.
Step 5: Start Your Search
Over 90% of home searches begin online. Here are a few of my favorite (and reliable) platforms for exploring Vancouver real estate:
Avoid non-local real estate sites, as their data is often outdated or inaccurate. Attending open houses in your desired neighborhoods is a great way to get a feel for different properties and refine your wish list.
Step 6: Making an Offer
Once you’ve found the right home, we’ll discuss a strategy for your offer based on market conditions. In a buyer’s market, you might offer below asking. In a competitive seller’s market, you may need to go in at—or above—asking price, especially if there are multiple offers.
We’ll work together to find a strategy that aligns with your comfort level and increases your chances of securing the property.
Step 7: Due Diligence
Once your offer is accepted, the due diligence process begins—typically during what’s called the subject period. Subjects (also known as conditions) are clauses written into the Contract of Purchase and Sale to protect you, the buyer.
Common subjects include:
- Financing approval
- Property inspection
- Review of strata documents (if applicable)
- Confirmation of insurance eligibility
These conditions must be satisfied before the deal becomes firm. In some competitive scenarios, buyers may choose to write subject-free offers, in which case much of the due diligence must be done before submitting the offer. This should be thoroughly discussed with your REALTOR® to understand the risks and options.
Final Thoughts:
Buying a home can be one of the most rewarding investments you’ll make. With the right planning, team, and guidance, the process can be exciting and empowering rather than overwhelming. I’m here to support you at every step—from the first conversation to handing over the keys.