The buyer guide
Informed buyers make better decisions. Here is what ownership involves — including the parts that are challenging.
A note before you begin
Our residences are presented as-is, with full disclosure. We would rather you understand every responsibility now than discover it later. If anything is unclear, your advisor is a call away.
Due diligence
Verify before you commit.
Every residence is offered with a property file — survey, disclosures, tax records and condition notes. We encourage you to review all of it and to commission independent checks where you feel they would help.
Due diligence is your opportunity to confirm boundaries, easements, permitted use and any open permits. Your advisor will guide you to the right documents.
- Review the full property file
- Confirm boundaries and easements
- Check permits and zoning
- Ask questions early
Inspections
Know the home before you own it.
Independent inspections are strongly recommended. Structural, roof, plumbing, electrical and environmental inspections can all be arranged at your expense, with access coordinated by our team.
Findings do not oblige you to proceed — but they will inform the discussion about price, repairs and timing.
- Structural & roof
- Plumbing & electrical
- Pool, dock & outbuildings
- Environmental & pest
Title & closing
A clean, documented transfer.
A title search confirms the seller’s right to transfer ownership and identifies liens. Title insurance is available and recommended for all purchases.
Closing is managed through a licensed escrow agent. Documents can be signed electronically or in person, and funds are released once all conditions are met.
- Title search & insurance
- Escrow-managed closing
- E-signature available
- Deed recorded after funding
Private financing
Understand the terms.
On selected residences we offer private financing. Terms — including down payment, interest rate and term — are set at approval and documented in your agreement. Online estimates are for information only.
Payments are collected through our approved servicing provider, which provides online access, statements and year-end tax forms.
- Down payment required
- Fixed schedule of payments
- Serviced by approved provider
- Application reviewed manually
Taxes & insurance
Budget for the full cost of ownership.
Property taxes are the buyer’s responsibility from the closing date. Rates vary by county and are shown in each property file.
Homeowner’s insurance is required before closing. Waterfront, wildfire-zone and ski residences may need specialist cover, and your advisor can introduce trusted brokers.
- Annual property taxes
- Homeowner’s insurance
- Flood or wildfire cover
- Umbrella liability cover
Occupancy & utilities
Settling in.
Occupancy follows closing and funding. Utilities, internet and security services are transferred to your name at closing — we supply a checklist and supplier contacts.
For homes with specialist systems — solar, wells, septic or marine infrastructure — we include operating guidance in your handover pack.
- Utilities transfer checklist
- Handover pack & manuals
- Service & maintenance contacts
- Security & access codes
Buyer responsibilities
What ownership asks of you.
As the owner you are responsible for upkeep, insurance, taxes and compliance with local codes and any applicable association rules.
We provide a plain-language summary of these responsibilities with every residence, so there are no surprises after you take possession.
- Maintenance & repairs
- Local codes & permits
- HOA or community rules
- Keeping insurance current
Still have questions?
Our advisors are happy to walk you through any part of the process — no obligation.