Find Your

Perfect Property

Home is more than just a physical space. It's where you've created countless memories, shared moments with loved ones, and where you feel most comfortable.

When it comes time to buy a new home and begin a new chapter, the process can oftentimes feel overwhelming. Buying a home can be an emotional journey, and it's understandable to feel apprehensive.

Rest assured that together, we can help you navigate the process with ease. We'll outline the process and create a plan together, so you don't have to do any of the heavy lifting.

From setting a budget, to finding the right neighborhood, negotiating the best terms for you & creating a smooth close, this page will be your guide.

The Benefits of Home Ownership

Tax Savings

The government incentivizes homeownership by providing tax deductions to homeowners.

Equity

Unlike renting, when you pay down your mortgage, you build equity that can be transferred when you move.

Stability

Stay longer, get to know your neighbors and get involved in your local community.

Appreciation

Home values have a history of increasing over time. The longer you stay, the more value you build.

Credit History

Every month, when you pay your mortgage, you're strengthening your credit history.

Happiness

Pride of ownership is unmatched. When you own, you can decorate, renovate, and appreciate the home.

How it Works

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    Buyer Consultation

    This is where we make a plan together. As your agent, I’m going to be asking you questions about your goals for buying a home and any questions or concerns you may have related to purchasing. Please take a moment to think about those things before our consultation so we can ensure we make the best use of our time together and address all your questions.

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    Loan Pre-Approval

    The very first step of the home buying process is to get a pre-approval letter from a lender stating how much you are qualified for. It's important to ask your potential lenders some questions to make sure they are a good fit for you. A pre-approval is only valid for 30-90 days, so while you can start talking to lenders, you’ll want to wait on getting that pre-approval letter until you’re ready to buy.

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    Home Search

    Once you finish your pre-approval and determine your budget, it’s time to start looking at homes online that would meet your criteria. To do this, we will set you up with your own MLS Buyer Portal, so you can begin looking for properties online. Here are a couple best practices to keep in mind; use the search filters but not too much, if you find a property you like check out the Google street view.

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    Home Tours

    Now that you’ve created your needs & wants list, it’s time to get inside those homes. When we are preparing to tour homes, there are a few recommendations we always keep in mind; read over your wants and needs list and revisit your budget, remember you can’t change the lot or location, don’t get distracted by decor and staging, and take your time!

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    Make an Offer

    So you think you’ve found “the one” and you’re ready to put in an offer—one that will be simply irresistible to sellers. Let's talk about making an offer that stands out. Some tips include; finding out what’s important to the seller to close, including a pre-approval letter, increase your earnest money, shorten contingencies, and offer a closing time that aligns with the seller.

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    Contingencies & Closing

    You made an offer, and it has been accepted—go ahead, cue the confetti! Throughout the next 30-45 days (on average) there will be various deadlines and requirements to satisfy contingencies in your purchase contract. When closing day arrives you’ll review and sign documents, exchange funds, and transfer ownership!

Post-Closing

Our relationship doesn’t end here! After closing, I will be staying in touch with you to ensure that the home is treating you well and fitting your needs. I love staying in touch with my clients and being able to hear how they are adjusting to their new space.

I’m always available to help answer questions and provide contacts for local contractors, as well (electricians, plumbers, carpenters, etc.). My network is your network, so I would love to share any recommendations you need for home projects, maintenance, or remodels. Never hesitate to reach out and ask for a referral!

Finally, I will be in touch with you annually to provide you with an annual market report so you are always up-to-date on your real estate investment and the current market conditions and trends.

Let us find your next home today.

Jessica was great to work with. She brings a ton of knowledge and was available at all times for consultation and advice. This was my first time navigating the real estate market and she was patient, helpful, and informative.”

— Buyer in Waterville, Maine


“Jess was very helpful in the purchase of our condo and did a great job working with us to help us understand the market is different today. When selling our  home on East Pond, Jess was instrumental in getting someone to work on the projects before listing and in explaining the situation to prospective buyers. Jess is easy to work with, an excellent communicator and very knowledgeable. I have and will continue to recommend her to anyone who is looking to buy or sell.”

— Seller & Buyer in Oakland, Maine


“Jessica O’Halloran Smart was awesome to work with on the purchase of our lake house on Messalonskee. We had a very challenging process due to complex title issues, and she worked tirelessly to get over the finish line. A true professional!”

— Buyer in Sidney, Maine