Do I have to be preapproved before contacting you?
No. We can discuss your goals and next steps before you're preapproved. However, I generally ask financing buyers to obtain preapproval and cash buyers to provide proof of funds before we begin scheduling private property tours.
Can we look at homes above my preapproval amount?
We should first clarify whether the purchase is financially feasible. That may require an updated lender assessment, additional verified funds, or a revised search strategy.
Do I have to sign an agreement before seeing a home?
When you're touring a home with me as your buyer's agent, yes. Ohio requires a written buyer agency agreement. You may attend a public open house on your own without signing a buyer agency agreement.
Does signing mean I automatically owe a commission?
Not necessarily. The agreement specifies the negotiated brokerage compensation and payment terms. Compensation may come from different sources, and we'll review your potential obligations before signing.
What if I'm not financially ready to buy yet?
We can still talk. A thoughtful plan now may put you in a better position when you're ready.