Congratulations on taking the exciting step of buying a new home!

I’m Dore Baker, and along with Geoff, we’re thrilled to guide you through this journey.

As experienced real estate professionals, we’re here to make your home buying experience smooth and hassle-free.

We understand that buying a home is a big decision, and we’re committed to providing you with honest, accurate information so you can make well-informed choices. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, we’ll work tirelessly to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

From finding the perfect property to negotiating the best deal, Geoff and I will be by your side every step of the way. Our goal is to ensure that your home buying experience is not only successful but also enjoyable.

The information we’ve provided will give you an overview of what to expect during each phase of your transaction. If you have any questions or are ready to start your home buying journey, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you find your dream home!

Tips for Buying a Home in the Thousand Oaks Area

The following links will provide valuable information on the home buying process:

  • PRE-APPROVAL VS. PRE-QUALIFICATION Pre-approval involves a comprehensive review of your financial background by a lender, while pre-qualification is a preliminary assessment based on basic information provided by you.
  • CLOSING COSTSClosing costs are the fees and expenses associated with finalizing a real estate transaction, typically including loan origination fees, appraisal fees, and title insurance.
  • PROPERTY TAXES – Property taxes are assessed by local governments based on the value of a property and are used to fund public services such as schools, roads, and emergency services.
  • BUYER DO’S AND DON’TSAdvice for buyers on getting pre-approved for a mortgage, researching neighborhoods thoroughly, and more, while covering things to avoid, such as making major purchases before closing and skipping the home inspection.
  • CONSIDER YOUR BUYING OPTIONS When considering your buying options, Dore and Geoff Baker encourage you to explore different neighborhoods and property types to find the best fit for your needs, ensuring you make a well-informed decision.
  • MAKING AN OFFER When it comes to making an offer on a home, Dore and Geoff Baker advise careful consideration and strategic planning to ensure you present a compelling offer that aligns with your budget and goals.
  • KEY CONCEPTS Understanding the key concepts in making an offer on a home, including earnest money, escrow, contingencies, and title insurance, is crucial for a smooth and successful real estate transaction.
  • DISCLOSURE & DISCOVERY Disclosure and Discovery rules ensure that buyers are fully informed about the property’s condition and any potential issues before completing the purchase.
  • HOME INSPECTION Home inspection is a crucial step in making an offer on a home, providing buyers with a detailed assessment of the property’s condition to make an informed decision.
  • CLOSING ON YOUR NEW HOME The final step in the home buying process, where ownership is transferred from the seller to the buyer, and all remaining paperwork and payments are completed.
  • BUYER’S ESCROW PLANNING TIMELINE Use this chart to draft your buyer’s escrow planning timeline, ensuring you stay on track and meet key deadlines throughout the home buying process.