Buyers Checklist

Buying a home isn't as confusing as it may first seem. In fact, there are really just several milestones to understand. We'll start by agreeing upon a contract, and then you're ready to go.

Step 1. Structural Inspection

A structural inspection will need to be set up. We'll take care of this for you once you have chosen an inspector. Following are some inspectors we recommend. Depending on the size of the property, costs will range from $300-$450.

  • Absolute Inspection Services
    Gerri Snow - 206-767-5770

  • The Home Report
    Don Lawn - 206-285-7227

  • Sage Inspections
    Eileen Cagney - 206-706-3096

  • Peacock Home Inspections
    Terry Peacock - 206-367-6566

Step 2. Homeowners Insurance

You'll need to arrange for this. We recommend Insurance broker Bob Abolofia, at 425-641-7682. You can also call the person or company that handles your automobile insurance.

Step 3. Escrow documents

You will receive papers to review and sign from both the title company and the escrow company. Call us, and we will help you to understand these documents.

Step 4. Utilities

You need to transfer the utilities to your name and account.

  • Electric Service:
    Seattle City Light - 206-684-3000
    Outside of Seattle call:
    Puget Power - 1-888-225-5773 or 425-454-2000

  • Telephone service:
    Qwest - 1-800-339-3929

  • Gas service:
    Puget Sound Energy - 1-888-225-5773

  • Seattle Water, Sewer, Garbage, Yard Waste & Recycling
    City of Seattle - Combined Utilities - 206-684-3000
    To establish a new water account, you must first read the meter after your transaction closes and then call in the reading. You can also find out your collection information and set up yard waste pick up.

  • Cable:
    Comcast - 1-877-824-2288

  • OIL SERVICE:
    If you have oil heat, you can purchase the oil from any company you like. Normally the name of the company that has been supplying the oil will have a sticker on the furnace, or we will ask the seller who their supplier was. Most people simply continue with the same company. Whoever you choose, you should also set up a yearly maintenance agreement for the annual service of your furnace. The tank is normally filled once or twice a year depending on usage and size of the tank. Price of oil is about the same with most companies.

    Note: In Seattle there is automatic insurance on oil tanks that are in use through the Pollution Liability Assistance Act of up to $65,000 in the event the tank fails and leaks.

    Outside of Seattle:
    We will supply you with the needed utility company phone numbers by either phone or email. The companies can vary according to where the house is located. Shoreline, for instance, has more then one number depending on whether you live east or west of the freeway.

Step 5. Appraisal

The appraisal will be done on your property. We meet with the appraiser and will inform you of the time and the outcome of the appraisal. Normally, the lender will mail you a copy of the appraisal. If you don't get one, request it from your lender.

Step 6. The Lender

The lender may call with questions, or they may need further documentation. It is very important to respond to them immediately in order for the transaction to close on time.

Step 7. The Escrow Process

You will be contacted by the escrow company to set up a time to sign your documents. They will instruct you to bring a cashier's check with you for the balance of funds you'll need to close the transaction. The cashier's check is made out to the escrow company. Johnine usually goes to the signing with you.

Step 8. The Keys

We will get you the keys to your new home sometime prior to your occupancy date, dependent upon when the listing agent or seller makes them available to us.