Your guide to buying a home.
You'll have both Shellys in your corner, clear updates at every step, and simple signing from anywhere. So you can focus on the fun part: finding home.
How buying works, step by step.
Offer to keys: often 30 to 45 daysWe talk through your goals, timing and budget, and sign a simple written buyer agreement that explains how we work together and how we're paid.
A lender checks your income, savings and credit so you know your real price range before you fall in love with a house.
We set up listing alerts that fit you, tour with you, and share what we notice, good and not so good.
We write a strong offer and negotiate price and terms for you.
Inspections check the home's condition. The appraisal confirms its value for your lender.
Your lender finishes underwriting. Keep your finances steady until closing.
One last look to make sure everything is as agreed.
You sign, funds are released, the deed records, and the home is yours. Congrats and enjoy your new place!
Oregon law asks us to share the Initial Agency Disclosure Pamphlet when we first connect. It explains how agency works and who represents whom.
Before you buy, know the numbers.
Buying a home comes down to three numbers: what you bring up front, what it costs to close, and what you'll pay each month. Here's how each one works.
Down payment
The cash you put toward the price on day one. The rest becomes your loan. Your earnest money, often 1 to 3% of the price, goes into escrow when your offer is accepted and counts toward it.
Conventional loans from 3% down, FHA from 3.5%, VA and USDA 0% for those who qualify. Under 20% down usually adds mortgage insurance.
Closing costs and escrow
Escrow is a neutral third party that holds the money and paperwork until everyone has signed. Plan on roughly 2 to 5% of the price for lender fees, the appraisal, title, recording and prepaid reserves.
In Oregon the escrow fee is usually split 50/50 and the seller usually pays for the owner's title policy. Lane County has no transfer tax.
Monthly payment
Most payments have four parts: principal, interest, property taxes and homeowners insurance. Add mortgage insurance and HOA dues if they apply.
Oregon property taxes cover a July to June year and are due each November 15. Most lenders collect them monthly and pay the bill for you.
General information, not financial or legal advice. Your lender and escrow officer will give you exact numbers.
Buy from anywhere. Stay with us while you look.
Every document is signed digitally, and Team Shelly can tour homes for you on video. When you're ready to visit, we can set you up with a stay in Eugene or on the McKenzie River through Dreamtime Getaways.
Arrange my visit →
Buyer guides.
The same handouts our clients get, ready to print or keep on your phone.
Let's find your place.
Start with a quick call or coffee at our Willamette Street office. We'll talk goals, timing and budget, and set up listing alerts that actually fit you.
