| So You’re Thinking About Buying a Home… NOW WHAT? A simple guide to help you take the first steps with confidence. |
| You’re ready. You’ve been thinking about buying a home, maybe browsing online, maybe even picturing yourself in your new space, but you’re not exactly sure where to start. First, take a breath. That feeling is completely normal. The home buying process can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right people in your corner, it becomes clear, manageable, and even exciting. |
IT’S MORE THAN A HOUSE. IT’S A NEW CHAPTER.
978.590.0150 • Shiloh@miamidreamre.com • www.miamidreamre.com
| SHILOH CABRERA | REALTOR® | STEP 1 • BUILD YOUR TEAM |
Step 1: Build Your Team
This is everything.
The first step, and one that can happen simultaneously, is finding a great Realtor and a strong lender. These two people can have a major impact on how smoothly your transaction moves. No pressure… but also, yes, pressure.
| 🏡 Choosing the Right Realtor Not all Realtors are created equal. You don’t just need someone to open doors. You need someone who: ✓ understands the market ✓ communicates clearly ✓ negotiates strategically ✓ protects your best interests at all times What Makes a Great Realtor? • They listen first, not just sell. • They educate you so you feel confident. • They’re responsive and proactive. • They advocate for you like family. • They have a plan… and a backup plan (or five). Because things don’t always go perfectly in real estate. You want someone who knows how to pivot, problem-solve, and protect you. | 💰 Choosing the Right Lender Your lender is just as important as your Realtor. A good lender will: ✓ communicate clearly and consistently ✓ move quickly and meet deadlines ✓ be transparent about the numbers ✓ know how to pivot if something comes up What to Avoid ✕ Doesn’t respond ✕ Delays paperwork ✕ Can’t close on time A lender who misses deadlines can put the transaction in jeopardy and, depending on the contract and contingencies, may even put your earnest money deposit at risk. |
978.590.0150 • Shiloh@miamidreamre.com • www.miamidreamre.com
| SHILOH CABRERA | REALTOR® | MONEY MOVES • PRE-APPROVAL |
Pro Tip: Get Pre-Approved More Than Once
I always recommend starting with your current bank, then talking with one or two additional lenders. Why? Because you want to compare rates, loan programs, costs, communication, and service. The lowest advertised rate is not the only thing that matters. You also need a lender who can perform when it counts.
| GOOD NEWS ABOUT RATE SHOPPING When you apply for mortgage loans within a short shopping window, often about 14 to 45 days depending on the credit scoring model, multiple mortgage inquiries are generally treated as a single shopping event for scoring purposes. That gives you room to compare lenders without being afraid to ask questions. |
Lean on Your Realtor
One of the biggest advantages of working with a good Realtor is access to a trusted network. We work with lenders all the time. We learn who communicates, who closes on time, who solves problems, and who actually shows up when it matters.
Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. You are never required to use a Realtor’s preferred lender, but a proven working relationship and track record can be valuable when deadlines get tight.
Before You Start House Hunting
✓ Check your credit and understand your monthly budget.
✓ Gather income, bank, and identification documents.
✓ Talk with more than one lender and compare your options.
✓ Ask about first-time buyer and down payment assistance programs.
✓ Get pre-approved before falling in love with a home outside your budget.
✓ Tell your Realtor what matters most to you: location, payment, lifestyle, and must-haves.
KNOWLEDGE TODAY. KEYS TOMORROW. 🔑
978.590.0150 • Shiloh@miamidreamre.com • www.miamidreamre.com
| SHILOH CABRERA | REALTOR® | WHY WORK WITH ME |
Why Work with Me — Shiloh Cabrera
| I’m not your typical “cookie-cutter” Realtor, and I’m okay with that. With over 15 years in the financial industry, I’ve helped people understand credit, finances, and big-picture strategy long before real estate. I also spent years training and mentoring others, which means I know how to break things down in a way that actually makes sense. To me, this isn’t just a transaction. My clients don’t just close and disappear. They stay in touch, call, text, and become long-term relationships because I treat every deal the way I would for myself or my family. |
What I Want You to Feel During the Process
| “You made this way less stressful than I expected.” | “You explained everything so clearly.” | “I felt like you actually cared, not just about the deal, but about me.” |
Final Thoughts
Buying a home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It starts with the right foundation: the right Realtor, the right lender, and the right guidance. Once you have that, everything else starts to fall into place.
| LET’S GET YOU STARTED If you’re thinking about buying and don’t know where to begin, that’s exactly what I’m here for. We’ll take it step by step, keep it real, and make sure you feel confident every step of the way. Because this isn’t just about buying a house — it’s about building your future. |
Shiloh Cabrera, REALTOR®