Buying a Home

How buying with me works, step by step.

Buying a home is a big decision. Here's exactly how I guide you through it, from the first conversation to the day you get your keys.

The Big Picture

A clear plan, so there are no surprises.

Most buyer stress comes from not knowing what happens next. So I break the purchase into four clear stages. You always know where you are, what's coming and what I need from you.

I bought my first home at 21 and have looked at property through an investor's eyes ever since. I treat your purchase the way I treat my own. My goal is the same for every client.

You can update a kitchen, but you can't move a house. That's why location comes first.

  • Right locationMatched to how you spend your days, evenings and weekends, without long drives or congested roads.
  • Right homeOne that fits the way you actually want to live, not just the listing photos.
  • Right priceGrounded in real sales data, with terms negotiated to protect you.
  • No regretsA decision you still feel great about years after closing.
01 Plan

Start with clarity.

We start with the home itself. How much space do you need? What size lot? Which features are must-haves?

Then we focus on location. I get to know how you like to spend your days, your evenings and your weekends. Golf, the gym, hiking trails, favourite stores — we map the places that matter most to you.

That way, your new home keeps everyday life close at hand, not a long drive away.

We'll also review a written buyer agreement. It sets out what I'll do for you and how I'm paid. No fine print surprises.

Tip: Get pre-approved early. It confirms your real budget and makes your offer stronger. I'm happy to introduce you to trusted local lenders.
Want the full picture first? Read my free Buyer's Guide.

What you'll have after this stage

  • A clear price range, including taxes, insurance and any HOA dues
  • A lender pre-approval or proof of funds
  • Your home requirements: size, lot and must-have features
  • Areas matched to your lifestyle and daily routine
  • A realistic timeline for your move
  • A signed buyer agreement, explained in plain English
Downtown Boise with the snow-dusted Foothills behind
02 Explore

See what matters. Skip what doesn't.

You'll get instant listing alerts straight from the MLS as soon as matching homes hit the market. I also watch for new construction and upcoming listings that fit your plan.

Before you tour, I help you narrow the list. I point out what the photos don't show, like busy roads, lot orientation and nearby development.

Moving from out of state? I can walk you through homes on live video. When you're ready to visit, I'll plan a focused tour so every hour counts.

What I handle for you

  • Custom MLS alerts for your exact criteria
  • Honest first impressions of every home on your list
  • Live video tours for remote buyers
  • A planned in-person tour, organized by area
  • Neighborhood context, commute times and nearby amenities
03 Secure

A smart offer, then careful protection.

When you find the one, I pull recent comparable sales so you know what the home is really worth. Then we set a strategy together.

A strong offer isn't just about price. Earnest money, contingencies and closing dates all matter. The right terms can win a home without overpaying.

I spent years in VP-level sales leadership before real estate. Negotiation is where that experience pays off for you.

Once you're under contract, I keep every deadline on track. That includes inspection, appraisal, financing and any repair requests.

Buying acreage? Homes on well and septic need extra checks. I'll make sure the right inspections are in your plan.

What I manage during this stage

  • A pricing review based on recent comparable sales
  • Offer strategy covering price, terms and timing
  • Negotiation with the seller or builder
  • Scheduling your licensed home inspection
  • Repair requests based on the inspection findings
  • Tracking the appraisal and loan approval
  • Reviewing HOA documents and title details with you
  • Every contract deadline on one shared timeline
Open front door framing a view across open Idaho land
04 Settle

Keys in hand, and a friend in town.

In Idaho, a title company handles your closing. I coordinate with them, your lender and the seller's agent so closing day runs smoothly.

Before you sign, we do a final walkthrough together. We make sure the home is in the condition we agreed.

After you move in, I'm still here. I'll share my trusted list of local contractors and service providers. I'll also remind you about the Idaho homeowner's exemption, which can lower property taxes on your primary home.

Protect your funds: Wire fraud targets home buyers. Always confirm wiring instructions by phone with your title company, using a number you already trust.
The Road to Home: A Home Buyer's Guide, presented by Susan Davidson, Realtor®
Free Guide

The Road to Home: A Home Buyer's Guide

Everything in this process, in more detail. Read it online or download it to keep. It covers budgeting, touring, offers, inspections and closing day.

Relocating?

Buying from out of state

I moved here from Santa Barbara myself. I know how hard it is to choose a home from hundreds of miles away.

  • Area comparisons before you visit
  • Live video tours of shortlisted homes
  • One focused trip, planned in advance
  • Remote signing, where your lender and title company allow
Plan Your Move
Building New?

Buying new construction

The builder's sales team works for the builder. You deserve someone working for you.

  • Call me before your first model home visit. Many builders require agent registration on day one.
  • Guidance on lots, upgrades and incentives
  • Contract review and deadline tracking
  • Walkthroughs before closing and before warranty ends
New Construction

Ready to start planning?

A short call is the best first step. No pressure, just honest advice.

Buyer Questions

Frequently asked questions.

Do I need to sign an agreement before we look at homes?

Yes. Under current industry rules, a written buyer agreement is needed before touring homes together. It sets out what I'll do for you, how long we work together, and how I'm paid.

We go through it together before you sign, so nothing is unclear.

How is a buyer's agent paid?

Compensation is agreed in writing up front and is negotiable. In many transactions, a seller or builder offers to cover some or all of it.

If they don't, it can be requested as part of your offer or paid by you, as set out in your buyer agreement.

Can I buy a home in Boise from out of state?

Yes. Many of my relocation clients start with live video tours and a curated shortlist. Most then make one focused visit before writing an offer.

Depending on your lender and title company, some or all closing documents can often be signed remotely.

Should I get pre-approved before I start looking?

Yes. A pre-approval confirms your real budget and makes your offer stronger. If you're paying cash, a proof-of-funds letter does the same job.

Do I need my own agent for new construction?

It's strongly recommended. The on-site sales team represents the builder.

Many builders also require your agent to be registered on your very first visit. So please call me before you tour a model home.

How long does it take to buy a home?

The search takes as long as it needs to. Once you're under contract, the closing date is set in your purchase agreement.

Financed purchases commonly take about 30 to 45 days. Cash purchases can close faster.

I'm a first-time buyer. Is there help available?

Yes. The Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) offers loan and down payment assistance programs for eligible buyers. A local lender can tell you which ones you qualify for.

Read my guide to IHFA down payment help

This page describes my general buying process. It is not legal, tax or lending advice.

Let's Talk

Your next home starts with one conversation.

Tell me what you're looking for and when you'd like to move. I'll share an honest view of your options.