When it comes to buying Chicago and North Shore real estate, working with an excellent real estate team is crucial to finding a perfect fit. Abbie Joseph and her professional real estate team, Abbie Homes Group, offer the world-class service you expect when purchasing luxury Chicago real estate.
Abbie is an award-winning broker at Compass with over $200 million in real estate sales in Chicago and North Shore under her belt. Recognized as one of Chicago's Most Influential Broker’s from Crain’s Media, Abbie’s success is the result of giving each client the care and attention their real estate purchase requires. In addition to world-class service, here is the process you can expect when buying North Shore real estate with Abbie Homes Group’s assistance.
Speaking with an excellent local lender for mortgage pre-approval is crucial. The lender will answer all questions about interest rates, closing costs, loan options, down payment requirements, and monthly payments. Abbie’s team will gladly provide referrals for lenders if needed.
You’ll sit down with the team to discuss everything you desire in a home and neighborhood. The more detailed you are about your needs, the easier it will be to find an ideal property. This starting point ensures you and the team are on the same page and gives them an idea of your timeline and homeownership goals.
Once your goals are accounted for, Abbie Homes Group will compile a list of suitable properties. Once you’ve chosen your favorites, viewings will be scheduled. Homes viewed will not only fit your strict criteria but also have excellent resale value.
When you’ve found the right one, you’ll sit down and write up an offer to present to the listing agent. Abbie and her team will advocate on your behalf to present an offer that works for you and the seller.
You’ll need to schedule a home inspection within five or seven days of signing the offer. Abbie can provide referrals for home inspections if needed.
Once all parties have signed the contract, you’ll have an attorney review everything, from paperwork to contingencies. Abbie can refer you to local real estate attorneys. If you’re moving into a condo, this will be your chance to review HOA documents, your budget, and additional elements.
If you’re acquiring financing, you will need to create a loan application upon receiving the contract. A lender will need to view several financial documents, including bank statements, credit reports, tax records, pay stubs, etc. Once you’re confident that you want to proceed with the home purchase after the home inspection and attorney review, your lender will schedule an appraisal.
When obtaining financing, you’ll have a mortgage contingency of generally 30-45 days to receive a mortgage commitment. Once your lender has received all of your documents, they will send them to underwriting for review. After underwriting issues a Clear-to-Close, your loan is complete and the file will be sent to the title company for closing.
Before you can celebrate your North Shore luxury home purchase, you’ll have a final walk-through with your agent. This is your chance to make sure any agreed-upon repairs have been made, everything is in working order, and nothing was accidentally damaged when the former homeowner moved out.
Abbie or her esteemed team member will attend your closing along with your attorney and the seller’s attorney at the office of the seller’s title company. Every document will be explained and reviewed. Once finished, you’ll receive the keys to your stunning new home!