Buying a Home
From search to closing, I’ll help you find a place you’ll love to call home.
“Relationships and trust are paramount. We’ll work on tirelessly to make sure you get the home you deserve.”
— Chip Laufer, Associate Broker
The Chip Laufer Difference
Real estate transactions can be complicated, confusing, and stressful. My goal is to make that experience different. Memorable in a good way.
Here’s what you can expect when working with me:
Personal approach: I take time to understand what clients like and dislike about the real estate process and work to make each experience a positive one.
Experience and dedication: I use my knowledge and problem-solving skills to find the best solutions for each client’s unique needs.
Commitment to quality: I don’t stop at good enough. Every transaction is handled with care, professionalism, and attention to detail.
Focus on trust: Building a personal relationship with each client is at the heart of my business.
Personal service: You’ll receive direct communication and individual attention throughout the entire process.
Support at every step: I’m available to answer questions, address concerns, and guide you from listing or offer to closing.
People first: Whether you’re selling your home for the best price or buying your dream home, I’m here to make the process smooth and successful.
Honesty and reliability: I work hard to make sure every client feels informed, confident, and supported during what is often one of life’s biggest investments.
Search Smarter, Not Harder
How can I make searching for a home in West Michigan less stressful?
Searching for a home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right strategy and guidance, it can actually be an enjoyable process. I’ll help you narrow your search, focus on what matters most, and find homes that fit your goals and lifestyle; whether you’re looking in Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon, or anywhere across West Michigan.
What should I think about before I start looking for a home?
Before we begin, it’s helpful to answer a few key questions:
What is your motivation for buying a home?
What are your needs versus your wants?
What is your ideal purchase timeline?
Have you discussed your finances and pre-approval options?
Are there any concerns or questions you want to address upfront?
Where do you look for available homes in West Michigan?
I search across every available source to find the best homes for sale throughout Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon, and the greater West Michigan area, including:
MLS (Multiple Listing Service)
For Sale by Owner properties
Bank-owned and foreclosure listings
Pocket listings and off-market opportunities
New construction homes
Major online listing platforms
Homes or neighborhoods you’d like me to research further
Mortgage Loans
With so many loan types available, it can be a daunting task to find the loan that’s right for you. Speaking with an experienced professional will help you narrow down the possibilities. Here are a few popular loan types and financing options.
15-30 YEAR FIXED
30 year fixed rate loans are the most popular home loans because of the predictability and low risk. You pay the same amount every month for x number of years until the home is paid off.
ARM
Adjustable Rate Mortgage or ARM offers low interest rates for the beginning of your loan (5-10 years). Typically, your rates rise higher than a fixed rate loan. This is the perfect choice for those who will pay off their loan quickly.
FHA
With a Federal Housing Administration loan or FHA, you can secure a mortgage with as little as a 3.5% down payment
as opposed to the 20% usually required by most other loan options.
CONVENTIONAL
If you have good credit and at least a 5-20% down payment available, you can qualify for this non-government, private loan. Mortgage insurance is not required if you have a 20% down payment.
DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE
Did you know the state of Michigan offers a down payment assistance program as well as many other organizations? We can assist you in finding out what you may qualify for.
Home Loan Process
Before the home loan process can begin, you’ll need to select a lender that you would like to work with. Having a great lender is imperative to a successful and pleasant home buying experience. Once you’ve selected a lender, these are the next steps of the process:
1. MEET WITH A MORTGAGE LENDER
2. ORDER CREDIT CHECK
3. COLLECT PERSONAL DOCUMENTS
4. ORDER APPRAISAL
5. LOAN IS UNDERWRITTEN
6. LOAN IS APPROVED/ LOAN CLEARED TO CLOSE
7. FUNDS DEPOSITED
Home Inspection
Inspections are meant to educate you on the property you are about to buy. We will want to discuss any critical issues that have a significant financial impact or that effect the safety of the property.
1. RESEARCH & SCHEDULE INSPECTOR
2. ATTEND INSPECTION
3. REVIEW REPORT
4. MOVE FORWARD OR NEGOTIATE WITH SELLERS AND THEIR REALTOR
Making an Offer!
Congratulations! You’re ready to make an offer. We will work together to craft the best offer possible and then follow these steps to come to an agreement with the seller.
1. DETERMINE TERMS
2. PRESENT TO SELLER
3. NEGOTIATE
4. ACCEPT OR DECLINE
Moving Checklist
Moving can be hectic. You’re trying to move your entire life from one property to another. Forgetting a task during the process is bound to happen. Use this helpful checklist to give yourself peace of mind.
If you’re using a moving service, don’t skimp on the research. Choose a mover that’s licensed, insured and trustworthy.
Submit your change of address form at the post office or submit online at moversguide.usps.com.
Inform any subscription services you have of your new ad- dress.
Transfer utilities, cable and internet.
Notify your financial institution of your move.
Register to vote.
Update your driver’s license.
Register your vehicle if moving to a new state.
Transfer medical documents to your new healthcare provider.
Transfer prescriptions to your new pharmacy.
Transfer your insurance policies.
Register your kids at their new school or update your address with their current one.
Consider changing the locks to your home. You have no idea how many people may have copies of your home’s keys.
Buying vs. Renting
Owning your own home is a great accomplishment, but you have to be very cautious when making the decision to purchase property. Buying a home may be the biggest investment you will ever make, so you have to make sure that it's a worthy investment that you won't regret in years to come. Even if this isn't your first rodeo, it is still essential to know the right time and place for a home purchase.