50 Things I Actually Do as Your Buyer’s Agent

By Bella Sánz | Bella’s Estate

You’re not just buying a home — you’re making one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. I don’t take that lightly. Here’s what I actually do for my buyer clients behind the scenes (and in front of them) to protect your interests and help you win in this market.

Before You Even Write an Offer

  1. Host a strategic buyer consultation to lay out the game plan.

  2. Tailor a communication flow that fits your lifestyle (text, email, calls — you choose).

  3. Connect you to trusted local lenders and help you get pre-approved.

  4. Walk you through the differences between pre-qual, pre-approval, and underwriting.

  5. Break down the loan types that align with your goals and timeline.

  6. Pull comps and market data for the neighborhoods you love.

  7. Show you what kind of home your budget actually gets you — no fluff.

  8. Talk strategy based on current interest rates, inventory, and days on market.

  9. Educate you on red flags, zoning issues, and what to watch out for in listings.

  10. Set you up on a curated listing feed with custom filters just for you.

When We’re House Hunting

  1. Preview homes in advance to save you time.

  2. Schedule and attend private showings — including second (and third) looks.

  3. Meet you at open houses to give my input and help you ask the right questions.

  4. Reach out to listing agents to get intel on seller motivation and activity.

  5. Dig for off-market or “coming soon” properties through my network.

  6. Keep tabs on homes that may fall out of escrow and re-hit the market.

  7. Help you compare properties with a real-time market lens — not just vibes.

  8. Coordinate back-to-back showings to make the most of your time.

  9. Review disclosures, inspections, and seller notes before you fall in love.

  10. Spot negotiation leverage points before we write the offer.

When You’re Ready to Make a Move

  1. Craft an offer strategy based on your timeline, budget, and the competition.

  2. Break down every line of the Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA).

  3. Discuss contingencies — what to keep, what to waive, and why.

  4. Prep your documents and walk you through every signature.

  5. Write a compelling cover letter to position your offer competitively.

  6. Submit your offer fast and confirm receipt with the listing agent.

  7. Keep a direct line with the listing agent to make sure your offer stands out.

  8. Negotiate counters and help you navigate seller pushback with confidence.

  9. Strategize backup plans in case your first offer doesn’t land.

  10. Keep you grounded and focused — even in emotional, high-pressure moments.

Once You’re in Escrow

  1. Coordinate escrow timeline and keep you on track every step of the way.

  2. Liaise with escrow, lender, and the listing agent to keep all parties aligned.

  3. Meet the appraiser with comps to help justify the offer price.

  4. Order and schedule all necessary inspections (general, roof, sewer, etc).

  5. Review all reports with you and advise on what’s fixable vs. deal-breaking.

  6. Keep an eye on lender milestones to make sure you close on time.

  7. Troubleshoot issues with title, insurance, or underwriting before they become problems.

  8. Keep you calm and informed through every hiccup (because there’s always something).

  9. Help renegotiate or request credits after inspections if needed.

  10. Confirm insurance, utilities, and everything you need to move in is ready to go.

Closing + Beyond

  1. Schedule your final walkthrough and help spot last-minute concerns.

  2. Coordinate mobile notary or escrow signing — digital or in person.

  3. Review your final settlement sheet with you before closing.

  4. Confirm recording of the deed and make it official.

  5. Hand-deliver keys (yes, I’ll cry if you do).

  6. Check in post-close to make sure your move-in is smooth.

  7. Send you a full contact sheet of trusted vendors and service pros.

  8. Help you plan your housewarming — or just pop the champagne with you.

  9. Follow up with updated property comps so you know how your equity is growing.

  10. Stay in your corner long after the sale — because this is more than just a transaction.

If you're buying in LA and want someone who will go all in to protect your money, time, and peace of mind — you already know who to call.

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