✦ Buyer's Guide
Buying a home, simplified.
Eight steps from "I think I'm ready" to "here are the keys." In English or Spanish, with full transparency at every stage.
Get pre-approved
Before looking at homes, talk to a lender. Pre-approval tells you what you can afford, what programs you qualify for, and what your monthly payment will look like. I introduce you to participating lenders who work with the down payment programs.
Define your must-haves
How many bedrooms? Schools? Commute? Yard size? We narrow down neighborhoods (Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Gaston, or Union County) and the must-haves vs. the nice-to-haves. This saves you weeks of looking at the wrong homes.
Tour homes
I set up showings, often with multiple homes per outing. We tour together. I take notes, point out red flags, and answer questions in real time. Bilingual — I'll explain anything in English or Spanish.
Make an offer
When we find the right home, I write a competitive offer based on the local market. We strategize on price, contingencies, earnest money, and closing date. The offer is reviewed with you in your language before submission.
Negotiate & go under contract
The seller responds — accept, counter, or reject. If they counter, we negotiate. Once both sides agree, we're "under contract" and the clock starts on inspections, appraisal, and closing.
Inspections & due diligence
You hire a home inspector. We review the report together. I help you decide what to ask the seller to fix or credit. North Carolina is a "due diligence" state — we have a defined window to do this work and walk away if we need to.
Appraisal & final loan
The lender orders an appraisal. The home must appraise for your offer or higher. Final underwriting wraps up. I coordinate with the lender, title company, and seller's agent to keep everything moving.
Closing & keys
You sign the closing documents at the attorney's office. Funds transfer. Recording happens. I hand you the keys to your new home — usually with a small surprise to mark the moment.
✦ Honest answers
Buyer questions
How much do I need for a down payment in NC?
Less than you think. Conventional loans can require as little as 3% down. FHA loans require 3.5%. VA and USDA loans can require 0%. With down payment assistance programs like NC 1st Home Advantage ($15K) or Wells Fargo Homebuyer Access® ($10K), you may be able to bring very little to closing. Start with a free pre-approval conversation.
What credit score do I need to buy a house?
FHA loans typically require 580+ for the lowest 3.5% down payment. NC Home Advantage programs require 640+. Conventional loans typically require 620+, with the best rates above 740. If your score is lower, we'll talk about the steps to raise it before buying.
How long does the home buying process take?
From pre-approval to closing, expect 45–75 days. The pre-approval and home shopping phase is highly variable — some buyers find a home in two weeks, others take six months. Once you're under contract, closing is typically 30–45 days.
Do I have to pay anything to work with you as my agent?
When you're buying, my commission is typically paid by the seller through the listing agreement, though buyer-side commissions are now negotiated separately under recent NAR changes. We'll discuss buyer's representation up front so there are no surprises.
Let's talk about your next move.
Tell me a little about what you're looking for and I'll be in touch within 24 hours.
(704) 380-7185 · berenicecruz@kw.com
— sí, hablamos español