As a buyer — even before you enter into a transaction — you will be presented with several forms. (Of course, sellers have many of their own, as well as some of the same ones you will be obliged to complete.) The process can seem overwhelming at times, but as your agent, I will be able to guide you and help you understand the seemingly huge amount of paperwork. Patience is key, as is keeping in mind the end result which makes it all worthwhile.

Be particularly mindful of the paperwork that needs to be completed within the time frames stated in the Purchase Agreement Contract. Doing your part to sign and complete all necessary paperwork in a timely manner will streamline the process and assure that you are protecting yourself legally. Working together continually with the Escrow Officer and our Transaction Coordinator, I will keep you apprised of all timelines.

I have listed some of the key forms used in California as well as Napa County. A few of these are used right from the start of working with an agent. The majority of forms used are required by law. Other "lesser" forms can vary by county and state and from company to company. I'm happy to help with all of the details. Be sure to understand what you are signing. Ask as many questions as needed and take your time.

Several of the forms are listed here with the first six available to view if desired.

	Disclosure Regarding Real Estate Agency Relationships This will likely be the first form you see when you are working with an agent. It addresses the different types of agency relationships: Representing the buyer only / the seller only / or the possibility of representing both—referred to as Dual Agency.
	Disclosure and Consent for Representation of More Than One Buyer or Seller This form should also be presented to you at the very onset of working with an agent. Agents are required to disclose that they may be representing more individuals than just you. Additionally, the form requires consent from you for this common practice.
	Purchase Agreement and Joint Escrow Instructions This is your offer and is 8 pages long. (It is also used as instructions for your escrow.) The most common type is the Residential Purchase Contract, however there are variations for vacant land, manufactured homes, new construction, probate sales and commercial properties.
	Buyer's Inspection Advisory This is a 2-page form which generally comes attached to the end of the Purchase Agreement. It emphasizes the importance of getting property investigations, addresses buyer and seller rights and duties, as well as broker obligations.
	Information Regarding Mediation, Arbitration and Liquidated Damages A form that explains the clauses in agreements that relate to dispute resolutions and liquidated damages.
	Statewide Buyer and Seller Advisory This 10-page form addresses the rights and duties of buyers, sellers and brokers.
	Buyer/Broker Agreement Depending on various factors, you may opt to sign this form. It is not a mandatory form and similar to the Listing Agreement of a seller, this is more or less a legal promise to allow your agent only, to represent you in the buying process. In turn, the agent will owe you a fiduciary duty in addition to his or her other legal and ethical responsibilities. It is presented to you in the earliest stages of agency.

Other forms that may or may not be a part of the negotiations and escrow process (some required, some dependent upon circumstances) are:

	Counter Offer(s)
	Addendum(s) to the Contract
	Purchase Agreement Addendum
	Contingency for Sale or Purchase of Other Property
	Buyer's Checklist of Inspections
	Napa County Disclosure Advisory
	Agent Visual Inspection Disclosure
	Home Warranty Application or Waiver
	Receipt for Increased Deposit/Liquidated Damages
	As-Is Addendum
	Request for Repairs
	Receipt for Reports
	Notice to Perform
	Contingency Removal
	Market Conditions Advisory
	Verification of Property Condition
	Notice of Your "Supplemental" Property Tax Bill
	Home Equity Explanation and Agency Agreement

In addition to these, you will be asked to sign upon receipt, several seller-specific forms.

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