let's find your new home

Fear of the unknown is common among all ages.  Kids, at night, imagine monsters in their closets or under their beds and adults are unsure of what the future might bring.

It may be natural for first-time buyers to be unsure of the process because they haven't been through it before but even repeat buyers need to know changes that have taken place since the financial housing crisis.

The steps in the home buying process are very predictable and generally follow the same pattern every time.  It certainly makes the move stay on schedule when you know all the different things that must be done to get to the closing.

• In the initial interview with your real estate professional, you share the things you want and need in a home, discuss available financing and learn how your agent can represent you in the transaction.
• The pre-approval step is essential for anyone using a mortgage to purchase a home to assure that they're looking at the right price of homes and so they'll know what they can qualify for and what the interest will be.
• Even with lower than normal inventory, it is difficult to stay up-to-date with the homes currently for sale and the new one just coming on the market.  Technology has simplified this process, but the buyer needs to implement them.
• Showings can be accommodated online through virtual tours, drive-bys and finally, a personal tour through the home.  Your real estate professional can work with you to see all the homes in the market through REALTORS®, builders or for sale by owners.
• When a home has been identified, an offer is written and negotiation over price, condition and terms takes place.
• A contract is a fully negotiated, written agreement.
• Escrow is opened to deposit the earnest money from the buyer as a sign they're acting in good faith.  The title search is also started so that clear title can be conveyed from the seller to the buyer and that the lender will have a valid lien on the property.
• 88% of home sales involve a mortgage.  The lender will require an appraisal to be sure that the home can serve as partial collateral for the loan.  If the buyer has been pre-approved, the verifications will be updated to be certain that they're still valid.  The entire loan package when completed, is sent to underwriting for final approval.
• When the contract is completed, at the same time the title search and mortgage approval are being worked on, the buyer will arrange for any inspections that were called for in the contract.
• After all contingencies have been completed, the transaction goes to settlement where all the necessary papers are signed, and the balance of the buyer's money is paid.  This is where title transfers from the seller to the buyer.
• Possession occurs according to the sales contract.

One of the responsibilities of your real estate professional is to make sure that things are done in a timely manner so that the transaction will close according to the agreement on time and without unforeseen or unnecessary problems.

Even if you're not ready to buy or start looking yet, you need to be assembling your team of professionals.  Let us know and we'll send you our recommendations, so you can read about them on their websites.

My History 

    I have always known that becoming a Realtor was my calling but I needed some life experience before having the confidence to make it happen. I graduated from Nicolet College in Rhinelander with a Degree in Marketing before starting my career with the St. Germain Chamber of Commerce. While there I was fortunate to be able to promote the beautiful area where I worked and played.

    Although I enjoyed my role at the chamber, I longed to see the rest of the World. This became possible with a new career at Lakeland Travel & Cruises in Minocqua. I could now travel and help people with their own travel adventures. With the birth of our 2nd child, traveling became more difficult. Soon after, I decided to stay home to enjoy the precious time with our children.

    While at our home North of Minocqua on Squirrel Lake, my husband Bill and I took on many projects, from new plumbing all the way up to attic insulation and everything in between! Not to mention all the outdoor projects from landscaping to a new septic system. All of these endeavors gave me the practical knowledge needed to help with the process of buying and selling properties.

    The Northwoods has been my home for over 25 years. Being an active cross country skier, fisherman, and all around outdoor adventurer this area has more to offer than anyplace I have ever traveled. I would love to help people make the move here and enjoy what this area has showed me all these years!

    I am working for Lakeplace.com-Vacationland Properties in Minocqua. They are one of Minocqua's longest standing independently owned Real Estate Companies boasting 42 years of continuous professional service. Owned and operated by Patrick Schey, Broker, we provide expert, informed and honest service to Clients and Customers through a staff of full time Realtors and support personnel. I am a broker and a member of the WI Realtors Association and Northwoods Association of Realtors & Greater Northwoods MLS (multiple listing service).