Before you engage in a deal make sure your lender has all the documentation needed to move quickly once you secure a purchase contract. The time frame from finalizing terms to closing escrow is typically 21- 45 days in this current market. Working with your financial team in advance ensures your success.

Remember that your Agent needs a copy of your documentation up front. It may also be required to view homes at higher price points.

A timely conversation to have with your Agent up front is a review of any expenses associated with your purchase, which typically includes a cash contract deposit of 10% (though this may vary), a home inspection fee, attorney & title search fees, and other closing related expenses.

A well defined search criteria will help your agent narrow down your options. Discuss your objectives with your agent in as much detail as possible. Your Agent will be most efficient if they have a complete wish list and “must-haves” including location and commute factors, a specific style or layout, and any other desired amenities.

It is crucial to partner with an Agent who knows the market inside and out and can offer their expertise and guidance. Connecticut is a buyer agency state, so ensure you carefully review the agency agreement you'll need to sign with your chosen Agent and their brokerage.

In Connecticut, a Real Estate Attorney is required to close escrow. If needed your agent can provide a list of local Attorneys that specialize in real estate and who excel at navigating the nuances of a luxury home purchase.

RE/MAX Heritage agents are full-time, hyper-local, have decades of experience, and are fully immersed in all the properties coming on and going in our market. We have several tech offerings to keep you informed with up-to-the-minute listing notifications.

Our white-glove service includes personally reviewing all options across the Fairfield County communities - from Greenwich up the train line through Stamford, Darien, Norwalk, Westport, Fairfield and more. You can trust that we’re on it! Response time can be critical for success.

While you’re looking at homes with your Agent, before you engage in the purchase process, discuss negotiating strategies. This is one of the areas where their expertise and history of success matter the most.

Once you find an exciting option you can collaborate on the best price, terms, and approach. At this point, you will likely need to show proof of funds in the form of a bank or investment account statement, a mortgage pre-approval letter (or even better a pre-commitment, ask us about this), or a letter from your investment firm showing you have the agreed upon funds available. Then you’ll carefully review and sign formal purchase documents. A contract deposit of 1% to 10% is typical in Connecticut and needs to be available to wire or deposit in an escrow account, which you will arrange through your Attorney.

In some cases, a long-form attorney contract may supersede the initial purchase agreement. Typical contingencies agreed upon by the Seller and Buyer can include a professional home inspection, financing commitment (which may or may not include an appraisal contingency), and title and municipal search. Your Attorney and Agent will review all of these with you in detail before you execute a final agreement.

Home inspections are an extremely important step. Your Agent can recommend the most reputable experts from building inspectors to septic and well specialists, pool/spa companies, radon and environmental experts, and general contractors. We have a long list of highly experienced home services professionals. As your advocate, we are continually looking out for your best interests and the security of your real estate investment.

Several days prior to closing your Attorney and Lender will guide you through the final closing checklist, including wiring instructions for the closing fees, prepaid taxes and transfer fees, etc. Finally, remember to have your new home's utilities and other services turned on. Your Agent will help obtain a list of current vendors from the Seller’s Agent, as well as provide a list of other reputable vendors and contractors. We encourage our clients to reach out at any time in the future for our consultation with repairs or renovations. Our relationships with our clients extends well beyond closing.

On the day of or evening prior to closing you’ll meet your Agent on site to conduct a final walk thru. Then you’ll meet with your Attorney to sign documents. (If you can’t be available in person for the closing you can make an arrangement with your Attorney in advance.) Once the process is complete your Attorney will confirm the transfer of title and celebrations are in order!