BUYER'S GUIDE
Your Complete Guide to Finding & Buying Your Dream Home
Meet the Founders
At our company, we pride ourselves on our exceptional team of dedicated professionals. Our team is comprised of seasoned real estate agents, meticulous transaction coordinators, experienced escrow officers, and supportive managers and staff, all committed to putting our clients' needs first.
We know that real estate transactions are significant life events, and we approach each one with a customer-first mindset. With a focus on clear communication, timely updates, and a passion for perfection, our team is here to ensure that your needs are met, your concerns are addressed, and your goals are achieved.
Darla Lyons, a second-generation broker with 25+ years of experience, combines her staging expertise and $200M in career sales with a passion for client relationships. Jake Lyons, a third-generation broker, brings data-driven strategies, 24/7 availability, and a modern, analytical approach to every transaction. Together, they deliver proven results across all price points—from first-time buyers to multimillion-dollar estates.
Congratulations, You Found Us!
Buying a home is one of the most significant purchases in a lifetime. It's essential to have an experienced agent in your corner who always looks out for your best interest. A buyer agent's fiduciary responsibility is to represent YOU and ensure you're protected.
What We Do For You
Getting You In the Door
We narrow down homes that fit your unique needs and get you inside. We look at hundreds of homes every week and can help you identify the best features of every house.
On Your Side
We represent your best interests. With a pulse on the local market and a sound understanding of home valuations, we'll make sure we submit a competitive offer on the right house for you.
Neighborhood Expert
We work daily in neighborhoods with inspectors, contractors, and sellers. We have the market knowledge needed to get you the home of your dreams at the best price.
Staying On Top of Paperwork
Buying a home involves many documents. We have the experience to navigate real estate contracts, ensuring nothing is overlooked and you truly understand what you're signing.
Problem Solver
We work hard to protect your interests and take on any issues that arise. We work tirelessly to make sure buying a home is fun and stress-free!
Your best interest is always our highest priority. Let's find your dream home together.
The Buying Process
9 steps to finding and buying your dream home
9 Steps to Buying a Home
Your roadmap from search to keys
Congratulations, You Found Us!
- You've made the right choice partnering with Better Brokers
- Your best interest is always our highest priority
- Let's discuss your needs, timeline, and goals
Prepare Your Finances
- Check your credit score
- Save for down payment, earnest money, closing costs & inspections
- Determine what fits into your budget
Get Pre-Approved
- Get officially approved by a lender for a specific loan amount
- Provide documented financial information
- Receive your pre-approval letter
Start Home Shopping
- Time to tour homes in your price range!
- We'll take notes, photos, and videos
- Help you remember each property
Make an Offer
- Found THE house? We act fast!
- Look at recent sales and current market activity
- Determine an appropriate offer price
9 Steps to Buying a Home
Order Inspections
- Schedule inspections with reputable professionals
- Thorough investigation of the home
- Review detailed inspection reports
Negotiate Final Offer
- Based on inspection findings
- Negotiate credits or repairs with seller
- Reach a fair agreement
Appraisal Ordered
- Your lender arranges for an independent appraisal
- Confirms the home's value
- Protects you from overpaying
Closing Day
- Sign the paperwork
- Receive your keys!
- Congratulations, you're a homeowner!
We guide you through every step, ensuring a smooth and successful purchase.
Getting Financially Ready
Prepare your finances for a successful purchase
How Much House Can You Afford?
If you're not purchasing with cash, you'll need a mortgage pre-approval from a lender
Check Your Credit
A good credit score usually means a cheaper mortgage. Improve your score by:
Credit Score Guide
Save Cash For
Pro Tip: There are many programs available to assist buyers with down payment and closing cost funds. Ask us about first-time buyer programs!
Get Pre-Approved
Being pre-approved (unlike pre-qualified) means you've officially been approved by a lender for a specific loan amount. You've provided documented financial information to be reviewed and verified.
Documents Needed
Income That Qualifies
✓ Qualifying Income
- W-2 income/salary
- Part-time & second job income
- Overtime & bonuses
- Self-employed income
- Alimony & child support (documented)
- Rental property income
✗ Non-Qualifying Income
- Lottery winnings
- Gambling
- Unemployment pay
- Single bonuses
- Unverifiable income
Types of Mortgage Loans
Find the right loan program for your situation
Conventional Loan
Conventional 97
FHA Loan
203K Loan
VA Loan
USDA Loan
Pro Tip: Not sure which loan is right for you? We work with trusted lenders who can help you explore all your options and find the best fit for your situation.
Finding Your Home
Time to tour homes and find the perfect fit
Home Shopping & Making an Offer
Start Touring Homes
We'll tour homes in your price range together. Take pictures and videos to help remember each home. We check every detail:
Neighborhood Considerations
Making an Offer
Found THE house? Act fast! We look at recent sales, current buyer activity, and the property's condition to determine an appropriate offer price.
What Makes an Offer Strong
After You Submit
The seller could accept, decline, or counter-offer. You can negotiate back and forth until you reach an agreement. Once accepted, you're officially under contract!
Under Contract
Navigating the escrow period with confidence
Inspections, Appraisal & Escrow
Inspections
During the inspection period, we schedule inspections with reputable professionals. Once complete, they provide a list of findings. Your options:
Negotiation Tips
Appraisal
Your lender arranges for an independent appraiser to estimate the home's value. This ensures the price is fair. Once approved, you receive your final commitment letter with loan terms and rates.
Also Happening
Confirms seller truly owns the property and discloses any liens, loans, or judgments.
You'll need insurance before closing to protect against fire, storms, flooding, etc.
Closing Day
Closing Disclosure
Lenders provide this at least 3 days before closing, showing final loan terms and closing costs. Review carefully—if there's a significant discrepancy, notify your lender and title company immediately.
Final Walkthrough
Within 24 hours of closing, we walk through the home to check its condition and verify any agreed-upon repairs are complete. We check:
At the Closing Table
Who's there: Your agent, the seller, seller's agent, title company rep, your loan officer
You'll sign lots of paperwork including the deed of trust, promissory note, and other documents.
Bring to Closing
Congratulations! You're officially a homeowner! Time to throw a party and meet your new neighbors!
Ready to Find Your Dream Home?
Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking for your next property, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Let's find your perfect home together.
Darla Lyons
Broker & Co-Owner | DRE# 00889406
Jake Lyons
Broker & Co-Owner | DRE# 02157013
Better Brokers Realty Group | DRE# 02218928