Buyers Education Step 3: Finding Your Dream Home and Making an Offer

by Mark Hansen

You’ve got your lender locked in (Step 1) and your agent by your side (Step 2—me!). Now comes the fun part: finding your dream home and making it yours. House hunting is my favorite part of the home buying process becuase it is an adventure filled with excitement, a pinch of nerves, and the thrill of possibility. But it’s not just about falling in love—it’s about strategy, too. Here’s how to find “the one” and seal the deal with a winning offer.
 
Finding the House
The search starts with knowing what you want. Define your must-haves: location (close to work or schools?), size (three bedrooms or a big garage?), and features (modern kitchen or a backyard oasis?). These priorities keep you focused in a sea of options. It will also allow me to set-up my process to make sure we know exactly when a property is listed or when a listed property has changes we can take advantage of!
 
As your agent, I don’t just pull listings—I tap into insider market trends to find homes that match your vision, even ones not yet on the radar. Together, we’ll hit the ground running, visiting properties and exploring all the possibilities they bring. Is the layout perfect but the paint awful? That’s fixable. Foundation issues? Maybe not. I’ll help you spot the difference so you’re dreaming smart and not just finding your perfect home, but making your new home the perfect find
 
Making an Offer
Found a keeper? Time to make it official. Crafting a competitive yet savvy offer is where strategy shines. I’ll dig into market data—recent sales, days on market, local demand—to ensure your bid stands out without breaking the bank. We’ll factor in contingencies like inspections and financing to protect you, plus earnest money to show you’re serious. It’s a balancing act with 15 different items: strong enough to impress sellers, smart enough to keep you safe.
 
With me in your corner, you won’t just throw out a number—you’ll have a plan. I’ve negotiated deals that turned long shots into victories, and I’ll do the same for you. Whether it’s a hot property or a hidden gem, we’ll make your offer the one they can’t refuse.
 
Tips for Success
In a fast-moving market, hesitation can cost you—so be ready to act. Pre-approval (from Step 1) gives you the edge to move quickly. But here’s the key: don’t overstretch your budget. It’s easy to get swept up in the moment, but I’ll keep you grounded, ensuring your dream home doesn’t become a financial strain. A good deal feels good today and tomorrow.
 
Finding “The One” Is Just the Start
There’s nothing like that moment when you walk into a house and know it’s home. The excitement is electric—and making it yours is the next big win. With the right prep and a sharp offer, you’re closer than ever to those keys. Call me at 385-466-7138—I’m here to make it happen! Next week, we’ll cover Step 4: What Happens After Your Offer's Been Accepted.

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Mark Hansen

Agent | License ID: 12735046-SA00

+1(385) 466-7138

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