Buyer Resources

Step 1: Find Your Agent and Buyer Consultation

Work with a knowledgeable real estate agent who understands the local market. Your journey with a Panorama agent begins with a buyer consultation, where we’ll learn about your needs, wants (and how they differ), budget, timeline, and preferences for your new home. We’ll also explain our process, answer your questions, and begin shaping your home search strategy.

Step 2: Secure Your Financing

This is when we make sure we have the financial proof needed to be able to put in an offer once you find your home; sometimes we need it just to be able to see a house! Cash buyers will provide proof of funds, while financed buyers will obtain a pre-qualification or pre-approval letter from a lender. We’re happy to recommend trusted local lenders to help you get started.

Step 3: House Hunting

We’ll tour homes that match your criteria and refine your search based on what you like (and don’t like). Most showings require at least 24 hours’ notice, and we’ll accompany you to each one — or arrange live virtual tours if you’re buying remotely.

Step 4: Make an Offer

When you find the right home, we’ll help you craft a competitive offer based on the property’s condition and comparable sales. We’ll negotiate on your behalf to secure the best possible terms and guide you through to an accepted offer.

Step 5: Inspections

We move efficiently through this stage while still conducting thorough due diligence. Inspections may cover the foundation, mechanical systems, water quality, radon, septic, and more. We’ll help you understand the findings, identify potential deal breakers, and negotiate repairs or concessions as needed.

Step 6: Contract

In Orange County, real estate attorneys are heavily involved from contract signing to closings. We are happy to help you connect with excellent attorneys in our area and help coordinate communication throughout. At this stage, you’ll review and sign the contract and submit your earnest money deposit. Once both parties sign, the contract is executed and your purchase is officially underway.

Step 7: Appraisals, Munis, and Title Searches

With our support, the attorneys and title company run municipal searches for any open violations on the property (such as a bathroom or deck built without a permit) so you are not saddled with fines later, and run a title search to make sure that the sellers can transfer it to you “free and clear.” If you’re financing, your lender will also order an appraisal to confirm the home’s value aligns with the purchase price.

Step 8: Closing Day, Get the Keys!

Once we have a clear to close, you will prepare your funds and we will do a walkthrough to confirm the home’s condition and any agreed-upon repairs. At closing, you’ll sign the necessary documents — and receive the keys to your new home. (Remember the garage-door openers!)

Step 9: Move and Settle In

We will assist you with your move by providing you with a checklist of next steps, key contacts (utilities, services, etc.), and practical move-in tips. Our relationship doesn’t end at closing — we’re here to support you, answer questions, and provide contacts even after you’ve settled into your new home.