WORK WITH ME

For Buyers

FOR BUYERS

Buying a home with Nicole

Look no further: Nicole is your personal coach, guide, and trusted ally. Known for her positive and passionate spirit, Nicole knows how to get the job done while also maintaining integrity and attention to detail. Nicole is always ready to cheer her clients on and fiercely advocate for them. If you’re looking for someone who will truly listen to you and your real estate goals, Nicole is your go-to person to partner with.

Here’s what they had to say…

“Nicole’s positive attitude, relentless optimism, and unfailing work ethic made a months-long buying journey feel like a breeze. She was prepared at every step of the process, had an answer to all my questions, and was on top of all the little things so I didn’t have to be.”

– Valerie G.

how it works

THE buying PROCESS

pre-approval

Before you start the home-buying journey, it's important to know your budget. Nicole can help connect you with a local lender.

find your team

Buying a home requires many steps. Finding a real estate agent you can trust will make sure the process goes as smoothly as possible.

make an offer

Nicole will help you shop for your dream home, support you in writing a competitive offer, and communicate effectively with the listing agent.

offer acceptance

When you receive an accepted offer, Nicole will walk you through the escrow process, making sure everything gets done in a timely manner.

closing

Teamwork makes the dream work— the home is yours! Nicole will always be at your side.

5 Effective Steps To Prepare To Buy a Home

Do you have dreams of owning a home of your own? Find out Nicole’s 5 effective steps to prepare to make your home-ownership dreams a reality.

Hi there! I’m glad you’re here.

What makes working with me different?

At the heart of everything I do are my core values. I am driven by a deeper purpose to serve others and I am committed to a values-driven approach to real estate.
Working with me means working with a real estate agent who cares deeply about authenticity, dedication, integrity, and communication.
I will listen to you and your real estate goals. I will make sure you feel seen and supported. I will be a pillar of compassion and stability.
As a hard-working, driven, and optimistic person, I will make sure I do everything in my power to make your real estate dreams come true.

Set Up a No Obligation Property Search

Curious to know what’s available within your search criteria? Want to stay up-to-date with the latest listings in your area?

I would be happy to do some research for you! Let me know what you’re looking for and I’ll get to work.

I can also set you up on an automatic email list so you hear about new opportunities when they’re hot off the press.

Learn More About Buying

Want to learn more about buying real estate in Happyville, USA? Check out these articles and videos.

December 2, 2022
Buying

5 Effective Steps To Prepare To Buy a Home

Congrats! You’ve set a goal to become a homeowner. Owning a home is one of the strongest investments you can make in your financial future. Let me help you with five effective steps to prepare to make your home-ownership dreams a reality.

by Nicole Powers

Have Questions About Buying?

Check out our FAQs for buying real estate in Santa Barbara, CA

What's the first step to buying a home?

The first step when buying a home is getting pre-approved by a lender. This will give you an outline of your budget and ensure that you are ready to show proof of financing when you find your dream home and want to submit an offer. I can help connect you with a local lender to get this process started!

Why should I work with a real estate agent when home shopping?

Working with an agent means that you have a trusted guide and confidant to help you with all of the steps necessary to get an offer accepted (and then through to closing!). Agents also know about off-market listings or new listings before they are published online, getting you opportunities that you wouldn’t have access to otherwise.

How much do I need for a down payment?

You might have heard that you need 20% down to purchase a home, but this is not always the case! Some loan programs only require 3-5% down and some homes qualify for VA or USDA loans, which don’t require anything down. Do keep in mind, though, you’ll also need to budget for closing costs (typically 2-5% of the purchase price) in addition to your down payment.

What happens when I find a home I love?

It’s time to write an offer! I will help you compare recent sales in the surrounding area and analyze the current market in order to make sure you submit a competitive offer that you feel is fair and comfortable for you, too. If your offer is accepted, I will help you navigate the ins and outs of the escrow process. If you receive a counter offer, I will help you decide how to respond strategically. And, if this property doesn’t end up being “the one,” I will help you move forward on the journey to finding the home that’s right for you!

How long does it take to close escrow on a home?

Typically, it takes 30-45 days. However, this timeframe can vary depending on the situation. Also, keep in mind that you will need time to get pre-approved for a loan, shop for homes, and get an offer accepted before the 30-45 days of the escrow period before moving in.

Why should I buy a home?

Buying a home, especially in California, is a strong asset that will appreciate in value over time. Renting does not allow you to build equity over time nor does it allow for the stability, ability to personalize your space, or tax benefits that owning your own home does. Buying a home is a big investment, but it is a smart one! I can help you make a game plan today.

What My Clients Have to Say

My purpose is to serve others

Janet Ruiz

What a delight it was to work with Nicole Powers! She was charming and everyone loved her! She had one open house and over 30 interested parties. All were checked out and it came down to selecting one by our choice. We are delighted with Nicole and our choice of tenant and plan to pass her name on to future neighbors and clients.

Valerie Grivetti

I would choose Nicole as my agent a thousand times over. She is professional, responsive and extremely organized. Her positive attitude, relentless optimism, and unfailing work ethic made a months-long buying journey feel like a breeze. She was prepared at every step of the process, had an answer to all my questions, and was on top of all the little things so I didn't have to be. Most of all I just really, really like her. Highly recommend!!!

Mark Grivetti

We recently found and purchased a new home through our agent Nicole Powers. I cannot recommend Nicole in anything but the highest, most glowing terms. Our search took many months in this crazy market. During that time Nicole was extremely diligent about bringing new leads to our attention, digging in on certain neighborhoods, shaking the bushes, making offers and pushing hard. Eventually, through her hard work, we found a great match of a home and she got us though close (including the million little things/last minute items that always come up) efficiently and in our budget. Nicole is warm and personable, and works hard!!! You will not be disappointed in choosing her to help you.

Alex Sheldon

Nicole is the best! Great communicator and it feels like she is available 24/7 when anything comes up. If you are looking for someone who is going to work really hard for you and is kind, caring, and has your back, Nicole is the one.