HOME
BUYER'Sguide
Table of Contents
Hi! We're
Amy & Jenny
We're Amy Reiland and Jenny Adolphson — together, we are The Gentry Group, powered by Real Broker. With over 12 years of combined real estate experience, we specialize in helping buyers navigate the home-buying process with confidence and ease.
Our approach is built on personalized service, open communication, and empowering our clients with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions. From understanding your goals to handing you the keys, we're here to guide you through each step of the journey so you feel supported, informed, and excited along the way.
Let's find your perfect home — together.
- ✉GentryGroupLuxe@gmail.com
- ☎314.795.5848 / 314.393.7544
- 🌐www.GentryGroupProperties.com
- 📍212 Kirkwood Rd., St. Louis, MO 63122
- GentryGroupLuxe@gmail.com
- 314.795.5848
- www.GentryGroupProperties.com
- GentryGroupLuxe@gmail.com
- 314.393.7544
- www.GentryGroupProperties.com
The Home Buying ProcessStep by Step
Setting clear goals from the start helps make smart, confident decisions. Before beginning the home search, take time to define what you're really looking for — and what you can comfortably afford. Knowing your priorities and limits upfront will save time, reduce stress, and keep your search focused.
Questions to Consider
Lifestyle & Priorities
- Preferred location or neighborhood?
- Minimum bedrooms/bathrooms?
- Essential features?
- Long-term or short-term home?
Financial Readiness
- Comfortable monthly payment?
- Estimated price range?
- Down payment saved?
- Have you reviewed your credit?
Before beginning your home search, it's essential to get pre-approved by a trusted mortgage lender. This step gives you a clear picture of what you can afford, helps you stay within your budget, and positions you as a serious buyer in the eyes of sellers.
Pre-approval isn't just about getting a number — it gives you confidence and direction. You'll understand your borrowing capacity, monthly payments, and loan options, which means no surprises down the road.
To get pre-approved, your lender will typically review your income, employment history, credit score, assets, and current debt. By securing your pre-approval early, you can make faster decisions and submit stronger offers when you find the right home.
Now that you're pre-approved, begin by browsing listings that match your location, budget, and lifestyle. Be clear about your non-negotiables — and flexible where possible.
Visiting homes is one of the most exciting parts of the buying process, but it's important to approach each showing with focus and intention. As you walk through a property, look beyond the decor and pay close attention to the layout, the natural light, the condition of the finishes, and how the space flows from room to room.
Try to imagine your daily routine in the home. Does it suit your lifestyle? Is there enough storage? Would you feel comfortable working, relaxing, and entertaining in this space?
After each showing, take a few quick notes or discreet photos if allowed. This helps you remember how each property felt and makes it easier to compare later. Don't hesitate to ask your agent questions about the home's history, recent upgrades, or the neighborhood.
Once you've found a home that feels right, it's time to move forward with an offer. This step can feel both exciting and overwhelming — but with expert guidance, it becomes a clear and confident process.
Your real estate agent will help you determine a strong offer based on current market conditions, the home's value, and your budget. The offer typically includes the proposed purchase price, preferred closing date, contingencies, and any items you'd like to request, such as appliances or repairs.
It's important to move quickly but thoughtfully. In competitive markets, timing is critical — a well-prepared, realistic offer can make all the difference.
After your offer is accepted, two key steps help confirm that the home is a solid investment: the home inspection and the appraisal. These are standard parts of the buying process and protect both your finances and your peace of mind.
A home inspection is typically performed by a licensed professional who thoroughly examines the property. They check for issues like structural damage, plumbing or electrical concerns, and overall safety. The inspector will provide a detailed report so you can make informed decisions.
At the same time, your lender will order an appraisal to determine the fair market value of the home. This ensures the property is worth the amount you're borrowing.
The closing process is the final step before you officially become a homeowner. It includes several important tasks, each playing a role in ensuring a smooth and successful transfer of ownership.
In 2024, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reached a legal settlement that introduced significant changes to the home buying process in the United States.
One of the most important updates is the requirement for buyers to sign a written agreement with their agent before touring properties. This change promotes transparency, clearly outlines how agents are compensated, and ensures that buyers understand the services being provided.
This guide has been updated to reflect these new standards and is designed to help both agents and clients navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
Buyer FAQs
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Do I need to be pre-approved before looking at homes?Yes. Getting pre-approved gives you a clear budget and shows sellers you're serious. It also helps streamline your search and offer process.
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How much should I save for a down payment?That depends on your loan type, but most buyers put down between 3% and 20% of the purchase price. Your lender can help you understand your options.
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Can I still buy a home if I have student loans or other debt?Yes. Lenders consider your full financial picture, including your debt-to-income ratio. Having debt doesn't automatically disqualify you.
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What happens after my offer is accepted?You'll enter escrow, complete a home inspection and appraisal, finalize your financing, and then move toward closing. Your agent will guide you through each step.
Glossary of Real Estate Terms
Move-In Checklist
- Transfer or set up utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet)
- Change your address with USPS, banks, and subscriptions
- Schedule movers or a rental truck
- Pack a "first night" box with essentials (toiletries, charger, paperwork)
- Confirm move-in time with sellers or property manager
- Clean your new home (or schedule professional cleaning)
- Keep important documents and valuables with you
- Do a final walkthrough of your old home
- Label boxes clearly by room
- Check that keys, garage remotes, and entry codes are working
- Take meter readings and photos for reference
- Test smoke detectors and security systems
- Locate water shut-off valve and breaker box
- Unpack one room at a time (start with kitchen & bedroom)
- Update driver's license and voter registration
- Introduce yourself to neighbors!
My Additional Tasks
Contacts & Resources
Your Real Estate Agents
Amy Reiland & Jenny Adolphson
314.795.5848 / 314.393.7544
212 Kirkwood Rd., Suite 1
St. Louis, MO 63102
GentryGroupLuxe@gmail.com
www.GentryGroupProperties.com
Nations Lending
Jenny Dawson
314.550.3432
Jenny.Dawson@nationslending.com
www.NationsLending.com
New American Funding
Megan Shaw
314.221.6219
Megan.S@nafinc.com
www.NewAmericanFunding.com
Security Title
Dawn Goewert
636.787.0070
695 Trade Center Blvd. Suite 110
Chesterfield, MO 63005
Dawn.goewert@fnf.com
What Clients
Are Saying
Let's Stay Connected
Ready to start your home search? We'd love to hear from you. Reach out today and let's talk about your goals.