Buyer Representation · NYC & CT Representación de Compradores · NYC & CT

Your Guide to
Buying a Home the Right Way Tu Guía Para
Comprar una Casa Correctamente

Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, I'll guide you from pre-approval to closing — protecting your interests every step of the way.

Ya sea que sea un comprador por primera vez o un propietario experimentado, lo guiaré desde la preaprobación hasta el cierre, protegiendo sus intereses en cada paso.

Start the Process → Comenzar el Proceso → See the Steps Ver los Pasos
Step by StepPaso a Paso

The Home Buying Process

El Proceso de Compra

Buying a home has many moving parts. Here's exactly what to expect from our first conversation to the moment you get your keys.

Comprar una casa tiene muchas partes. Aquí está exactamente lo que puede esperar desde nuestra primera conversación hasta el momento en que recibe sus llaves.

1

Initial Consultation

Consulta Inicial

We start with a conversation — your goals, budget, timeline, and must-haves. I'll explain the entire process, answer your questions, and make sure we're a good fit before signing anything.

Comenzamos con una conversación sobre sus metas, presupuesto, cronograma y lo que necesita. Explicaré todo el proceso y responderé sus preguntas.

💡 No pressure, no commitment — just clarity on what's possible for you.
💡 Sin presión, sin compromiso — solo claridad sobre lo que es posible para usted.
2

Get Pre-Approved

Obtener Preaprobación

Before we search for homes, you'll need a pre-approval letter from a lender. This tells sellers you're a serious buyer and sets your real budget. I'll connect you with trusted lenders in our network.

Antes de buscar casas, necesitará una carta de preaprobación de un prestamista. Esto le dice a los vendedores que usted es un comprador serio.

💡 Pre-approval is free and takes 1–3 days. It does not commit you to any lender.
💡 La preaprobación es gratuita y toma 1–3 días. No lo compromete con ningún prestamista.
3

Home Search

Búsqueda de Hogar

Now the fun part. I'll set up a custom MLS search tailored to your criteria and alert you the moment matching properties hit the market. We'll tour homes together and I'll point out things you might miss.

Ahora la parte divertida. Configuraré una búsqueda personalizada y lo alertaré en el momento en que aparezcan propiedades que coincidan con sus criterios.

💡 In competitive markets like NYC and Westchester, the best homes move fast — being pre-approved keeps you ready.
💡 En mercados competitivos como NYC y Westchester, las mejores casas se mueven rápido.
4

Making an Offer

Hacer una Oferta

Found the one? I'll run a comparable market analysis (CMA) to make sure you're not overpaying, then craft a competitive offer that protects you with the right contingencies.

¿Encontró la indicada? Haré un análisis de mercado para asegurarnos de que no está pagando de más, luego elaboraré una oferta competitiva que lo proteja.

💡 Every offer includes contingencies — your built-in safety nets for inspection, financing, and appraisal.
💡 Cada oferta incluye contingencias — sus redes de seguridad para inspección, financiamiento y tasación.
5

Contract & Attorney Review

Contrato y Revisión Legal

Once your offer is accepted, a real estate attorney reviews the contract. In NY and CT, attorneys play a critical role — I'll refer you to trusted attorneys in our network who work at competitive rates.

Una vez aceptada su oferta, un abogado revisa el contrato. En NY y CT, los abogados juegan un papel crítico.

💡 Attorney review typically takes 3–5 business days in New York and Connecticut.
💡 La revisión del abogado generalmente toma 3–5 días hábiles en Nueva York y Connecticut.
6

Home Inspection

Inspección del Hogar

A licensed inspector will examine the property top to bottom. I'll be there with you. If issues are found, we can negotiate repairs or credits — or walk away if needed.

Un inspector licenciado examinará la propiedad de arriba a abajo. Estaré allí con usted. Si se encuentran problemas, podemos negociar reparaciones o créditos.

💡 Never waive your inspection contingency, especially in competitive markets.
💡 Nunca renuncie a su contingencia de inspección, especialmente en mercados competitivos.
7

Appraisal & Final Loan Approval

Tasación y Aprobación Final del Préstamo

Your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home's value. Once approved, you'll receive your Closing Disclosure — a detailed breakdown of your final loan terms and closing costs.

Su prestamista ordenará una tasación para confirmar el valor de la casa. Una vez aprobado, recibirá su Declaración de Cierre.

💡 Avoid making large purchases or changing jobs during this phase — it can affect your loan approval.
💡 Evite hacer compras grandes o cambiar de trabajo durante esta fase — puede afectar su aprobación del préstamo.
8

Final Walk-Through & Closing

Recorrido Final y Cierre

We do a final walk-through 24–48 hours before closing to confirm everything is as agreed. At closing, you'll sign the paperwork, wire your funds, and receive the keys. You're a homeowner! 🎉

Hacemos un recorrido final 24–48 horas antes del cierre para confirmar que todo está como se acordó. En el cierre, firmará los documentos y recibirá las llaves. ¡Es propietario!

💡 Bring a valid ID and your certified/cashier's check or wire confirmation to the closing table.
💡 Traiga una identificación válida y su cheque certificado o confirmación de transferencia al cierre.
Mortgage GuideGuía de Hipotecas

Financing 101

Financiamiento 101

Understanding your financing options is the foundation of a smart home purchase. Here's what you need to know — in plain language, no jargon.

Entender sus opciones de financiamiento es la base de una compra inteligente. Aquí está lo que necesita saber, en lenguaje simple.

🏦

Conventional Loan

Préstamo Convencional

The most common type. Not government-backed. Requires 3–5% down and a credit score of 620+. Best for buyers with solid credit and steady income.

El tipo más común. Requiere 3–5% de pago inicial y una puntuación de crédito de 620+. Mejor para compradores con buen crédito e ingresos estables.

Min. 620 Credit Score
🏛️

FHA Loan

Préstamo FHA

Backed by the Federal Housing Administration. Allows down payments as low as 3.5% and accepts credit scores as low as 580. Great for first-time buyers with limited savings.

Respaldado por la Administración Federal de Vivienda. Permite pagos iniciales tan bajos como 3.5% y acepta puntuaciones de crédito tan bajas como 580.

Min. 3.5% Down
🎖️

VA Loan

Préstamo VA

Available to veterans, active military, and eligible surviving spouses. No down payment required and no private mortgage insurance (PMI). Excellent terms.

Disponible para veteranos, militares activos y cónyuges sobrevivientes elegibles. No se requiere pago inicial y sin seguro hipotecario privado.

0% Down for Veterans
🌾

USDA Loan

Préstamo USDA

For rural and some suburban properties. No down payment required if you meet income limits. Available in parts of Westchester and Fairfield County CT.

Para propiedades rurales y algunas suburbanas. No se requiere pago inicial si cumple con los límites de ingresos. Disponible en partes de Westchester y el Condado de Fairfield.

0% Down in Eligible Areas

Questions to Ask Your Lender Preguntas para Hacerle a Su Prestamista

What is my interest rate and APR?
What loan program is best for me?
What are my estimated closing costs?
Is the rate fixed or adjustable?
How long will the approval process take?
Do I need private mortgage insurance (PMI)?
Can I lock my rate? For how long?
Are there prepayment penalties?
¿Cuál es mi tasa de interés y APR?
¿Qué programa de préstamo es mejor para mí?
¿Cuáles son mis costos de cierre estimados?
¿La tasa es fija o ajustable?
¿Cuánto tiempo tomará el proceso de aprobación?
¿Necesito seguro hipotecario privado (PMI)?
¿Puedo bloquear mi tasa? ¿Por cuánto tiempo?
¿Hay penalidades por pago anticipado?

💜 Daniel works with trusted lenders across NYC, Westchester, and CT. Daniel trabaja con prestamistas de confianza en NYC, Westchester y CT. Getting multiple quotes is always a smart move. Ask Daniel for a referral. Obtener múltiples cotizaciones siempre es una decisión inteligente. Pídale a Daniel una referencia.

Be PreparedEsté Preparado

First-Time Buyer Checklist

Lista de Verificación para Compradores

Use this checklist to make sure you're ready at each stage of the home buying process.

Use esta lista de verificación para asegurarse de que está listo en cada etapa del proceso de compra.

📋 Before You Start

📋 Antes de Comenzar

Check and review your credit report
Pay down outstanding debts if possible
Save for down payment (3–20% of purchase price)
Save for closing costs (2–5% of loan amount)
Gather financial documents (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)
Avoid opening new credit accounts or making large purchases
Verifique y revise su informe de crédito
Pague deudas pendientes si es posible
Ahorre para el pago inicial (3–20% del precio de compra)
Ahorre para los costos de cierre (2–5% del monto del préstamo)
Reúna documentos financieros (talones de pago, declaraciones de impuestos)
Evite abrir nuevas cuentas de crédito o hacer compras grandes

🏦 For Pre-Approval

🏦 Para la Preaprobación

Last 2 years of W-2s or tax returns
Last 30 days of pay stubs
Last 2–3 months of bank statements
Government-issued photo ID
Social Security number
Proof of any other income (rental, alimony, etc.)
Gift letter if part of down payment is a gift
Últimos 2 años de W-2s o declaraciones de impuestos
Últimos 30 días de talones de pago
Últimos 2–3 meses de estados de cuenta bancarios
Identificación con foto emitida por el gobierno
Número de Seguro Social
Prueba de cualquier otro ingreso

🏡 During Your Search

🏡 Durante su Búsqueda

Define your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves
Research neighborhoods (commute, schools, amenities)
Attend showings with an open mind
Take notes and photos at each property
Ask about HOA fees, property taxes, and utilities
Check flood zone status for the property
Defina sus necesidades imprescindibles vs. deseables
Investigue vecindarios (transporte, escuelas, comodidades)
Asista a las visitas con mente abierta
Tome notas y fotos en cada propiedad
Pregunte sobre tarifas de HOA, impuestos y servicios públicos

🔑 Before Closing

🔑 Antes del Cierre

Schedule and attend the home inspection
Review inspection report with Daniel
Secure homeowner's insurance
Do the final walk-through
Review Closing Disclosure carefully
Wire closing funds or get a cashier's check
Bring valid photo ID to closing
Programe y asista a la inspección del hogar
Revise el informe de inspección con Daniel
Asegure el seguro del propietario
Haga el recorrido final
Revise cuidadosamente la Declaración de Cierre
Transfiera los fondos de cierre o obtenga un cheque de caja
Traiga una identificación con foto válida al cierre
Common QuestionsPreguntas Comunes

Buyer FAQ

Preguntas Frecuentes

Here are the questions I hear most often from first-time buyers. Don't see yours? Just ask.

Aquí están las preguntas que escucho con más frecuencia de los compradores por primera vez. ¿No ve la suya? Solo pregunte.

It depends on your loan type. Conventional loans require as little as 3–5%, FHA loans require 3.5%, and VA loans require 0% down. Keep in mind you'll also need funds for closing costs (typically 2–5% of the loan amount) and moving expenses.
Yes — in New York State, it is standard practice (and strongly recommended) to have a real estate attorney represent you in a purchase transaction. In Connecticut, it is legally required. I work with trusted attorneys in both states who provide excellent service at competitive rates.
From accepted offer to closing, expect 45–60 days on average. The timeline varies based on your financing, the property type (co-ops take longer than condos or houses), and how quickly inspections and attorney reviews are completed.
In most transactions, my fee is paid by the seller — meaning you get full professional representation at no out-of-pocket cost to you. I'll explain how this works in detail during our first consultation.
Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on self-reported information — it's informal and doesn't carry much weight with sellers. Pre-approval involves a full credit check and document review by the lender — it's much stronger and shows sellers you're a serious buyer. Always aim for pre-approval before you start touring homes.
It's harder, but not impossible. FHA loans accept credit scores as low as 580 (with 3.5% down) or even 500 (with 10% down). There are also credit repair strategies we can discuss. The key is to start the conversation early — even 6–12 months before you plan to buy can make a big difference.
Closing costs are fees associated with finalizing your home purchase — they typically run 2–5% of the loan amount and include items like lender fees, title insurance, attorney fees, prepaid taxes, and transfer taxes. Both buyers and sellers pay closing costs, but the exact split depends on what's negotiated in the contract. In some cases, sellers agree to cover some of the buyer's closing costs.
Each has pros and cons. Co-ops are typically more affordable but have strict board approval processes and subletting rules. Condos offer more flexibility and easier financing. Single-family homes give you the most freedom and long-term appreciation potential. The right choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals — we'll discuss this in detail together.
Depende de su tipo de préstamo. Los préstamos convencionales requieren tan poco como 3–5%, los préstamos FHA requieren 3.5%, y los préstamos VA requieren 0% de pago inicial. También necesitará fondos para los costos de cierre (típicamente 2–5% del monto del préstamo).
Desde la oferta aceptada hasta el cierre, espere 45–60 días en promedio. El cronograma varía según su financiamiento, el tipo de propiedad y qué tan rápido se completan las inspecciones y revisiones de abogados.
Es más difícil, pero no imposible. Los préstamos FHA aceptan puntuaciones de crédito tan bajas como 580. También hay estrategias de reparación de crédito que podemos discutir. La clave es comenzar la conversación temprano.
Know the TermsConozca los Términos

Real Estate Glossary

Glosario de Bienes Raíces

Real estate has its own language. Here are the key terms you'll encounter during your purchase.

Los bienes raíces tienen su propio idioma. Aquí están los términos clave que encontrará durante su compra.

Pre-Approval
A lender's conditional commitment to loan you a specific amount, based on verified financial information. Stronger than pre-qualification.
Contingency
A condition in a contract that must be met for the sale to proceed. Common types: inspection, financing, and appraisal contingencies.
Earnest Money Deposit (EMD)
A good-faith deposit made when submitting an offer, typically 1–3% of the purchase price. Applied to your down payment at closing.
Closing Costs
Fees and expenses paid at closing, including lender fees, title insurance, attorney fees, and prepaid items. Typically 2–5% of the loan.
CMA (Comparative Market Analysis)
A report comparing similar recently sold properties to help determine fair market value for a home.
Appraisal
An independent assessment of a property's value, ordered by your lender to ensure the home is worth what you're paying.
PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance)
Insurance required when your down payment is less than 20% on a conventional loan. Protects the lender — not you.
Title Insurance
Protects you (and your lender) from any claims or disputes over who legally owns the property. A one-time fee paid at closing.
Escrow
A neutral third party that holds funds and documents during a transaction until all conditions are met and closing can occur.
HOA (Homeowners Association)
An organization in a planned community, condo, or co-op that sets rules and collects fees for shared maintenance and amenities.
Under Contract
When a seller has accepted an offer and the property is no longer available for new offers (but the sale hasn't closed yet).
Closing Disclosure
A final document from your lender detailing your exact loan terms, monthly payment, and all closing costs. Received 3 days before closing.
Let's TalkHablemos

Ready to Start Your Home Search?

¿Listo para Comenzar su Búsqueda?

Fill out the form and I'll reach out within 24 hours to schedule your free buyer consultation. No pressure, no commitment — just a conversation about what's possible for you.

Complete el formulario y me comunicaré con usted dentro de 24 horas para programar su consulta gratuita de comprador. Sin presión, sin compromiso.

What happens next:

Qué sucede después:

1
Daniel reviews your information and reaches out within 24 hoursDaniel revisa su información y se comunica dentro de 24 horas
2
You schedule a free 30-minute buyer consultationPrograma una consulta gratuita de 30 minutos
3
We map out your path to homeownership togetherTrazamos juntos su camino hacia la propiedad de vivienda

📞 Prefer to call? 347.695.5900
✉️ Or email: Daniel.Figueroa.realty@gmail.com

Buyer Intake Form

Formulario de Comprador

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Daniel se comunicará con usted dentro de 24 horas.

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