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The 58 Group
Buyer
Guide
Everything that happens between “I like this one” and the keys in your hand.
Jeannette Peña · Broker Associate
713 367 8082 · jeannette@jeannettepena.com
www.the58group.com
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About Me
Broker Associate, Architect & Residential Real Estate Advisor
The 58 Group | JLA Realty
A Realtor since 2007, Jeannette Peña is a Broker Associate, Architect, and trusted residential real estate advisor with nearly two decades of experience serving buyers and sellers throughout the Houston market.
Recognized as a Top Producer and Five Star Real Estate Agent, Jeannette combines extensive market knowledge with a strategic, hands-on approach to every transaction. Her experience spans changing market cycles, giving her the perspective to understand not only what a home is worth, but how to position it, present it, and negotiate it effectively in today's market.
Her architectural background adds a distinctive perspective when evaluating a property — understanding its layout, functionality, features, and how buyers will experience the home. For sellers, that translates into thoughtful preparation, strategic pricing, strong presentation, and a marketing plan designed around the property rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Above all, Jeannette believes experienced representation means more than marketing a home. It means providing clear advice, anticipating challenges, negotiating confidently, and protecting her client's interests from the first conversation through closing.
Designations
ABR®
Accredited Buyer's Representative
CIPS
Certified International Property Specialist
RENE
Real Estate Negotiation Expert
ALHS
Accredited Luxury Home Specialist
CHMS
Certified Home Marketing Specialist
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Buying
Before you look
Financial Preparation
Determine Budget: Evaluate your financial situation and decide how much you can afford.
Get Pre-Approved: If using a mortgage, get pre-approved for a loan to understand your borrowing capacity.
Search for a Home
Hire a Real Estate Agent: Choose a knowledgeable agent to guide you through the process.
Define Your Criteria: List your must-haves and nice-to-haves in a home.
Start House Hunting: Visit homes that match your criteria and budget.
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Buying
Making an Offer
Select a Home: Find a home that suits your needs and budget.
Make an Offer: Your agent will help you make a competitive offer.
Sales Price: Propose a price based on market analysis and your budget.
Option Period: Determine the number of days for the option period, during which you can back out of the contract for any reason (typically 7-10 days).
Earnest Money (EM): Decide on the amount of earnest money, a deposit that shows your serious intent (usually 1-2% of the sales price).
Negotiate Terms: Be prepared for counteroffers and negotiate the best terms.
The option period and the earnest money are the two numbers buyers understand least and negotiate most. Ask me about both before we write anything.
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Buying
Contract, Inspection, Loan
Contract and Inspection
Sign the Contract: Once terms are agreed upon, sign a purchase agreement.
Deliver Earnest Money and Option Fee: Submit these amounts to the title company within the agreed time frame (usually 3 days).
Home Inspection: Hire a professional to inspect the property for any issues.
Negotiate Repairs: If the inspection reveals problems, negotiate repairs or credits.
Appraisal and Loan Approval
Appraisal: The lender will require an appraisal to ensure the home's value matches the loan amount.
Final Loan Approval: Submit necessary documents to the lender for final approval.
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Buying
Closing & Move-In
Closing the Deal
Final Walkthrough: Conduct your final walkthrough before closing to ensure the house is in good condition and all agreed-upon repairs have been completed.
Review Closing Documents: Carefully review all documents before signing.
Closing Costs: Be prepared to pay closing costs, which may include loan fees, title insurance, and other charges.
Sign Documents: Sign all required documents to finalize the purchase.
Move-In
Get the Keys: Once the closing process is complete, you will receive the keys to your new home.
Move In: Plan and execute your move to your new property.
Congratulations on your new home.
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Checklist
Your buying checklist
Before you look
Budget set
Lender chosen
Pre-approval letter in hand
Funds identified for option fee, earnest money and closing costs
Must-haves list written
Representation agreement signed
Under contract — the clock starts
Contract executed date
Option fee delivered (3 days)
Earnest money delivered (3 days)
Inspection scheduled
Loan application submitted
Insurance quotes requested
Option period ends date
Inspection to appraisal
Inspection report reviewed
Repairs or credits negotiated
Survey ordered
Appraisal ordered, then received
Title commitment reviewed
HOA documents and resale certificate received
Final two weeks
Clear to close from the lender
Closing disclosure reviewed (3 days before)
Wire instructions verified by phone — never by email
Homeowner's insurance bound
Utilities transferred to the closing date
Final walkthrough
Cashier's check or wire sent
Closing day date
Photo ID
Documents signed
Funded
Keys
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Tips
The first weeks in the house
1. Change Your Address
Notify the USPS of your new address.
Update your address with all relevant contacts, including banks, credit card companies, and subscriptions.
2. Update Utilities and Services
Set up or transfer utility services such as electricity, water, gas, and internet.
Inform your home security company, if applicable.
3. Home Maintenance
Schedule regular maintenance for HVAC systems, plumbing, and electrical systems.
Create a seasonal maintenance checklist to keep your home in good condition.
4. Insurance
Ensure your homeowner's insurance policy is active and updated with accurate coverage.
Consider additional coverage for natural disasters if necessary.
5. Emergency Preparedness
Locate and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Create an emergency plan and kit for your household.
6. Home Improvements
Prioritize and plan any desired home improvement projects.
Consider energy-efficient upgrades to save on utility bills.
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Tips
Settling in for the long run
7. Get to Know Your Neighborhood
Introduce yourself to your neighbors.
Familiarize yourself with local amenities, schools, and services.
8. Financial Planning
Set up a budget for ongoing home expenses.
Start an emergency fund for unexpected repairs or maintenance.
9. Important Documents
Keep all important home-related documents, such as the deed and mortgage paperwork, in a safe place.
Maintain records of any improvements or repairs made to the property.
10. Routine Inspections
Schedule regular inspections for your home's roof, foundation, and other critical areas.
Address minor issues promptly to avoid costly repairs later.
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Save Contact
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Jeannette Peña
Broker Associate | Lic #0576387
713 367 8082 · jeannette@jeannettepena.com
www.the58group.com