For buyers
Ten steps, one trusted advisor.
The Buffini 10-Step Purchasing Pathway gives every buyer the same calm clarity, from first conversation to keys in hand.
Step 01
Initial Appointment
The purpose of the initial appointment is to understand your “needs and wants” as a buyer. This may be the most critical meeting of the home buying process. During this appointment, the entire purchasing pathway will be discussed.
Step 02
Determine the Purchasing Parameters
There are three criteria every buyer uses to find their home: location, price and style/condition. These criteria, along with your “needs and wants,” will determine the properties we search for and the homes we initially view.
Step 03
Acquire a Pre-approval
Viewing homes without a pre-approval usually leads to disappointment. Buyers who are wise discuss their financial situation with a reputable lender and acquire a pre-approval. A pre-approval creates an opportunity for you to not just understand what you qualify for, but ultimately to decide what you can afford. Having a pre-approval greatly enhances your negotiating position – especially in a competitive market.
Step 04
View Homes
The process of viewing homes provides you with information in order to make the best decision possible. Helping you find a home is a process of elimination; not a process of selection. Viewing homes you don’t like is not a waste of time; it helps build a frame of reference to help you find what you do like.
Step 05
Write the Contract
The best way to prepare for the contract phase of the transaction as a buyer is to review a blank copy of the purchase contract. Reading the contract prior to making an offer will make you much more comfortable during the negotiation phase.
Step 06
Deposit Earnest Money
An earnest money deposit communicates to the seller that you’re serious about purchasing their property. Earnest money is kept safe in a trust account until those funds are used to close the transaction.
Step 07
Perform the Home Inspections
After the contract is fully accepted and all terms are agreed upon, a home inspection can be performed if the contract allows. The inspection will allow you and the inspector you hire to take a more thorough look at the property. This inspection will give you a far greater understanding of the property you are purchasing.
Step 08
Final Walk-through
After the mortgage has been approved, a final walk-through is encouraged. On the final walk-through, you will re-inspect the property to ensure it is in an acceptable condition and that any personal property conveying is present.
Step 09
Execute the Closing Documents
Once the contract is accepted, inspections performed and mortgage approved, the closing will be set and final documents will be executed. You will be directed by the appropriate party as to the time and date of this event. Either a formal closing date will be established by a closing attorney, or an escrow officer will close the transaction.
Step 10
Home Delivery
Upon the conclusion of the paperwork and transfer of ownership, you will receive the keys, garage door openers, and any documents/warranties that convey with the property. You will then become the rightful owner. It’s time to move in!
Frequently asked
Honest answers.
The most common questions buyers ask before our first conversation, answered without sales pressure.
How long does it take to buy a home with Raymond?
Most buyers move from first conversation to closing in 60–120 days, depending on financing, inventory, and inspection timelines. Raymond walks every client through the Buffini 10-Step Purchasing Pathway so the timeline is predictable and the next step is always clear.
Do I need to be pre-approved before viewing homes?
Pre-approval is strongly recommended before previewing properties in Bainbridge Island and Kitsap markets. It clarifies your true budget, strengthens any future offer, and ensures sellers take your interest seriously. Raymond can connect you with vetted lenders who understand jumbo and luxury financing.
Can Raymond represent buyers relocating from overseas?
Yes. Raymond is fluent in Korean and English, has years of teaching and business experience in South Korea, Thailand, and China, and is connected to The Agency's global network. He has successfully represented international buyers relocating to the Pacific Northwest.
What is the ferry commute like from Bainbridge to Seattle?
The Washington State Ferries Bainbridge–Seattle route is roughly 35 minutes walk-on or vehicle, with daily commuter schedules. Many of Raymond's clients walk on with coffee and a laptop and arrive downtown without driving.
How does Raymond find off-market or quiet listings?
As Managing Broker of The Agency Bainbridge Island, Raymond has direct access to coming-soon inventory inside the brokerage and across The Agency's global network. Many premier waterfront properties trade quietly before they hit public portals.
Required disclosure
Real Estate Brokerage in Washington
The official Washington State pamphlet that every broker is required to provide. It explains agency relationships, a broker’s duties to buyers and sellers, written services agreements, and limited dual agency under chapter 18.86 RCW. Read it before our first appointment so we can move forward grounded in the same understanding.
Begin
Start your buyer journey.
A private, five-step questionnaire, about three minutes. The more I know before our first conversation, the more grounded and personal it will be.
Your information stays private. Replied to within one business day.
The Purchasing Pathway © 2020 Buffini & Company. All Rights Reserved.