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Your Guide to

Home Ownership

For Sagar Mainkar

Knowledge, Experience, Professionalism

Dear

Sagar Mainkar


Buying your first home is an exciting journey, and we're thrilled to be part of making your dream a reality! Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and confidence you need as we guide you through each step of the home-buying process.

In this presentation, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from your initial consultation to the moment you receive your keys. We're dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring your experience is a success.

Sincerely,

David & Danielle Contreras

- you're in great hands -

Meet

Danielle and David Contreras

Danielle Contreras is a knowledgeable, dedicated and full-time Silicon Valley Realtor. Being a resident in San Jose for all her life she has proudly built a reputation of service and commitment to her community. She brings great fortitude and compassion mixed with wisdom and humor to our partnership. She has been an active Bay Area agent since 2006 and has worked tenaciously to be a top producer ever since. Her integrity, education, practical experience and commitment have resulted in tremendous real estate success for her clients. Danielle believes honesty and excellence is accomplished by doing business the only way she has learned how, the right way.

In 2009 Danielle earned the NAR accredited Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource (SFR) designation in hopes of helping friends and family members work through the economic downturn. Since then Danielle has helped many sellers save their homes with lower payments or sell their homes and get out from under the foreclosure process.

She is articulate and intelligent, a consummate communicator, along with being refreshingly candid and absolutely dedicated to far exceeding your expectations of a Silicon Valley Real Estate Professional.

David Contreras has been part of the fast-paced Silicon Valley for over 20 years. Moving to San Jose from his home town of South Lake Tahoe CA where David worked with VIP guest visiting the five star resorts. In 2002 he began in the real estate industry as a Realtors internet marketing consultant for start up called Boulevard New-Media, Inc.. His savvy helped grow the company from scratch to teaching realtors Internet marketing in over 22 markets across the US. David's extensive experience in developing successful online marketing plans for homes and condominium development projects has been a tremendous asset to his seller clients looking to target today's buyers.

David brings cutting edge technology and customer driven results to our partnership. He equates buying real estate to life by saying "you never know for sure what to expect but with the right partner you can achieve all your goals."

The skills possessed by David and Danielle are built upon a wide variety of experiences and successful backgrounds. They offer the skills, expertise, knowledge, community commitment and commitment to the success in Silicon Valley real estate marketplace. Past clients have learned that they will handle each and every transaction with the highest set of Values and Code of Ethics by San Jose Realtors.
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Proven Track Record

Service

Provide great customer service by building bonds with clients that lead tolong-term relationships where we truly care about their needs.

Knowledge

By pursuing excellence in our expertise as agents we can better service our clients and lead them to home ownership in a smooth and easy process.

Integrity

Be ethical in all you do and communicate with honesty while paying attention to the details of each and every client, agent, and transaction.
Exceptional reviews that reflect a pattern of excellence with my past clients.

Raving Reviews

We are grateful to Danielle for her crucial role in securing our home. As first-time buyers, we appreciated her patience, expertise, and friendly demeanor. Her honesty and efforts to exceed expectations made our journey positive in this chaotic market.
This is our second time working with David in California real estate, and it's been excellent. His attention to detail and local knowledge helped us find a property quickly in a hot market, key to our success.
As first-time homebuyers, we were fortunate to have Danielle and David. Their market knowledge and responsiveness were vital in crafting a winning bid. They met all deadlines, helping our family settle into a lovely home.
David assisted us in finding and purchasing our first home in San Jose. His response to our first email/phone call was immediate and he took the time to show us properties around town which fit our wish list. He was very accommodating during the whole process, guiding us through the paperwork, answering the many questions that we had and being overall really supportive. We recommend David and Danielle without reservations.

* Review has been shortened using AI, click the review to read the full review.

Loyalty

This custom presentation is a reflection of the care and effort I put into supporting each client, especially first-time homebuyers like you. I understand that buying your first home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make, and it deserves thoughtful planning and careful consideration. That’s why I believe mutual respect and understanding are crucial as we work together to achieve your real estate goals.

As we review our roles and responsibilities in the home-buying process, we can ensure that we’re both ready to commit to this exciting journey together.

What You Can Expect During The Processes

1

Consultation

We’ll sit down together and help you determine your needs wants and goals while offering my personal industry expertise and strategies for bringing your vision to life.
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2

Pre-Approval

Getting pre-approved will help you know exactly what you can afford so you can confidently focus on the right homes. Plus, it shows sellers you’re serious, giving you an edge when making an offer.
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3

Property Tours

After you have reviewed and selected which homes you want to tour, we get to go shopping! This is where you can start figuring out what you really want in your new home.
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4

Write Offer

Once we find the home of your dreams, we'll submit an official offer - including but not limited to sale price, inspection contingencies, and closing costs. The seller then has time to accept, reject, or counter your offer.
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5

Under Contract and in Escrow

With your offer accepted, we enter a 30-day Escrow period. This involves a neutral third party company that holds funds while conducting a thorough underwriting process to ensure all aspects of the contract are upheld properly
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6

Appraisal

The appraisal is ordered by your lender to protect their investment. They have their own checklist of things they look at for the final approval to move forward. The appraiser can demand repairs completed by the seller before they will give their approval.
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7

Inspections

Now that you've found your home we need to order the inspection. The inspection will let you know what repairs are needed, some are minor and some may be safety issues. Don't worry, you are still protected.
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8

Closing

Congratulations! You now own a home and can get moved in. It's time to celebrate and have your housewarming and show off your home. We will be standing by to answer any questions you may have about home-ownership and have a list of contractors if the need arises.
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Market data as of:
The Market Action Index (MAI) is a literal temperature gauge that shows whether the market favors buyers or sellers.
An MAI of 30 is typically balanced; over 30 is a seller's market, under 30 is a buyer's market.

Buyer markets

Buyers get better deals and more choices when MAI is low.

Seller markets

Sellers can list for higher prices and quicker sales when MAI is high
Market data as of:

View current market trends

Scan the QR code to see the current Market Trends report
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Starting August 17th, 2024

It is required to complete and sign a written Buyers Broker Agreement (BBA) before showing a home. This applies to buyers requiring the services of any licensed agent in the U.S. to visit a property.
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By Signing the Agreement to Partner with an Agent

Our agent is dedicated to you and committed to finding a home that meets your needs.
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With a proven track record

We have a combined 36 years of knowledge and experience to be your BEST asset in your real estate endeavors.

Signing a Buyers Broker Agreement or BBA

  • This is an agreement to engage with a professional real estate agent to consult, show homes, negotiate contracts, and advocate.
  • It will establish the length of the agreement
  • It shows the agent/broker's services and responsibilities
  • It explains the agreement's exclusivity between Broker and client, what fees are owed for services rendered, and how to terminate the agreement. It mentions additional fees if the buyer signs with more than one agent.
  • It provides a clear explanation of the various ways an agent can be compensated for their services to the Buyer.
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105 More Ways

Agents Who Are Realtors ® Are Worth Every Penny Of Their Compensation.

Here’s a look at all the things – big and small – that a REALTOR ® may do to help clients when buying a home.

Counseling Session Activities

  • Prepare the buyer for executing a buyer representation agreement
  • Explain agency relationships to the buyer and get state required legal consentto represent, if needed
  • Inform the buyer of working relationship based on state law, the REALTORS®Code of Ethics, and the broker’s business policies

Building a Relationship

  • Learn the buyer’s wants and non-negotiable needs
  • Understand the buyer’s budget and what will be needed financially
  • Help the buyer understand what property their chosen budget will buy
  • Consider having the buyer fill out a homebuyer’s checklist
  • Assist the buyer in examining how much they can afford to spend
  • Provide quality lender resources
  • Partner with the buyer to locate suitable properties for consideration
  • Match the buyer’s needs with available property
  • Constantly re-evaluate buyer’s needs and refocus property showings to fit those needs
  • After ensuring the buyer understands what is done for them, how it is done,and the benefit to them, obtain signatures on the buyer representation agreement
  • Explain how compensation is paid, who pays it, and what the buyer’s optionsare for paying it

Educating the Buyer

  • Communicate the working relationship based on state law, the REALTORS®Code of Ethics, and the broker’s business policies
  • Explain Federal and State Fair Housing laws
  • Explain what to look for in applicable property disclosures
  • Reassure the buyer that their personal information will remain confidential
  • Inform the buyer that you will always disclose all known material defects
  • In accordance with state law, provide information on checking the sex-offenderregistry and crime statistics for the neighborhood
  • Discuss available resources that the buyer can check to learn more aboutprospective neighborhoods
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REALTORS® are members of the National Association of REALTORS®

Preparing the Buyer

  • Explain the timeline for house hunting, mortgage approval, and closing
  • Explain the local market and how it impacts the buyer
  • Show statistics on what percentage of list price sellers in the area are currentlyreceiving
  • Inform the buyer on what home features are popular
  • Identify current average days on market
  • Share the dangers of using the price per square foot to figure home values
  • Explain the concept of absorption rate and how it impacts the buying process
  • Indicate current listing months of market inventory
  • Share estimated potential out-of-pocket costs to complete the transaction
  • Assist the buyer in analyzing the loan estimates
  • Qualify the buyer for financial ability to purchase
  • Help the buyer account for the complete costs of homeownership
  • Prepare lender for listing agent calls
  • Assist in comparing different financing options
  • Help the buyer select for viewing only those homes that fit their needs
  • Proceed in showing homes that fit the buyer’s must-haves
  • Caution the buyer on posting information to social media
  • Review the sample sales contract so the buyer is prepared when it comes time to make an offer

Showing Properties

  • Schedule showings and provide access to all listed properties as soon as theybecome available in their local MLS broker marketplaces
  • Educate the buyer on the immediacy of new listings appearing in their localMLS broker marketplaces and the lag time for them to appear on somewebsites
  • Collaborate with the buyer on properties they may have learned about throughtheir sphere contacts
  • Research and assist on all unlisted properties the buyer wishes to see
  • Preview properties prior to showing if needed
  • Network with other agents to source properties not yet in their local MLSbroker marketplaces
  • Contact homeowners in focus areas to see if they are considering selling
  • Set up an automated email alert system through their local MLS brokermarketplaces that immediately notifies the buyer of properties that fit discussed requirements
  • Arrange a tour of areas, schools, and key points of interest
  • Provide resources containing neighborhood information on municipal services,schools, etc.
  • Inform the buyer of negative aspects like nearby venues or operations that may result in issues that could impact value
  • Check applicable zoning and building restrictions
  • Help the buyer decipher public property and tax information
  • Collect and share pertinent data on values, taxes, utility costs, etc.
  • Compare each property shown to the buyer’s wants and needs list and remindthem of what they were looking for
  • Help the buyer narrow the search until the buyer identifies top choices

Negotiating Offers

  • Assist the buyer in getting the best property at the best price
  • Suggest that the buyer learn more about the neighborhood prior to makingan offer
  • Prepare a comparative market analysis (CMA) in advance of making an offer
  • Prepare the buyer to have the most attractive offer in the current marketplace
  • Explain common contract contingencies and include approved protective clauses in the purchase offer
  • Ensure that the buyer receives and understands all state and federally-required disclosure forms
  • Prioritize contract negotiation goals with the buyer
  • Help create a negotiating strategy
  • Use strategies such as an escalation clause to maintain a competitive offer
  • Prepare the buyer for a multiple offer situation and develop negotiation strategies
  • Write an offer that has a reasonable chance of being accepted
  • Recommend optional contingencies and explain the pros and cons of using them
  • Provide information on purchasing incentives that may be available
  • Discuss financing alternatives
  • Negotiate the buyer’s offers to arrive at the best price and terms
  • Utilize hyperlocal expertise and strong communication skills to assist thebuyer in being the successful offer

Advocating for the Buyer and Facilitating the Close (Part 1/2)

  • Advocate for the buyer throughout the entire process
  • Encourage the buyer to fully investigate their options in terms of a home inspector, title company, appraiser, mortgage lender, and other services
  • Present a list of the types of required and optional inspections such as environmental, roofing, and mold
  • Review and discuss home inspection concerns
  • Negotiate repair requests from home inspection
  • Guide the buyer on meeting all contract deadlines
  • Assist in coordinating communications
  • Advise the buyer to review the settlement statement
  • Inform clients that they need to transfer utilities to the new residence
  • Schedule final walkthrough
  • Accompany the buyer on the walkthrough
  • Assist the buyer in questioning the appraisal report if it affects the financing
  • Confirm clear-to-close with the lender
  • Ensure all parties have all forms and information needed to close the sale
  • Remind the buyer of the location where the closing will be held
  • Confirm the closing date and time, and notify parties if there are changes
  • Gather all required forms and documents for closing
  • Explain flood insurance to the buyer
  • Explain title insurance to the buyer and refer to qualified insurance broker
  • Order any surveys needed

Advocating for the Buyer and Facilitating the Close (Part 2/2)

  • Order the appraisal
  • Order the title search
  • Confirm the status of the loan funding
  • Check addendums and alterations for agreed terms
  • Review the buyer’s closing statement to ensure accuracy
  • Explain wire fraud risks and remind clients to verify all wiring instructionsbefore transferring funds
  • Double-check all tax, homeowners’ association dues, utility, and applicable prorations, if relevant
  • Request final closing figures from the closing agent (often an attorney ortitle company)
  • Receive and carefully review closing figures to ensure accuracy
  • Receive and carefully review title insurance commitment with the buyer
  • Advise the buyer to re-key their locks and to consider a one-time cleaningservice or landscaping before moving day
  • Review documents with the closing agent (attorney)
  • Support the buyer in any final closing activities
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Actual services provided will depend on the needs of the buyer and the transaction –not all 105 things will need to be done in every transaction.

Featured content from the Center for REALTOR® Development’s Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) Designation Course. Visit crd.realtor to learn more.

Let's Chat.

I'm sure you have questions and thoughts about the real estate process and the BBS in particular. I'd love to talk with you about what you've read here and help you on the path to buying your new home.

I look forward to working with you.
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Thank you!

In everything we do, we are driven to help others, because behind every transaction there is a vision, a goal, a dream waiting to come to life. In doing so, we bring our expertise, our instincts from years of experience, and our complete dedication to you.

This is only the beginning of an exciting journey to a bright and shining new future. And it's only the beginning of our commitment to servicing your every real estate need. Thank you for the opportunity to help you find your perfect home!
We'll be right there with you, every step of the way.