Buying a Home
A clear plan, a strong offer, and someone in your corner from pre-approval to keys.
Whether it’s your first home, your next home, or a move to Northeast Ohio from out of state, the process works best when you know what’s coming. Here’s how I help buyers win the right home without overpaying.
Buying with Coop at a glance
Pre-approval first
We start with a real pre-approval, not a quick estimate, so your offers hold up and sellers take them seriously.
Know your real numbers
Down payment, closing costs, monthly payment, and cash to close. You’ll see the full picture before you shop.
Search with a strategy
I watch new listings, coming-soon homes, and price drops so you see the right homes first.
Offers built to win
Price, terms, timing, and contingencies, structured to compete without giving away more than you need to.
Inspections & due diligence
I help you read the inspection, prioritize real issues, and negotiate repairs or credits.
Close with confidence
Appraisal, final loan approval, walkthrough, and closing. I track every deadline so nothing slips.
STEP ONE
Get pre-approved with a lender I trust
MY RECOMMENDED LENDER
Megan Maruna
Senior Loan Officer · NMLS #1989328
The Solido Group at Barrett Financial Group
Specialties: Conventional · FHA · Down Payment Assistance · DSCR
9+ years in the business, access to 180+ lenders, and a focus on clear education with no pressure.
Megan Maruna (NMLS #1989328) is a Senior Loan Officer with The Solido Group at Barrett Financial Group, L.L.C. (NMLS #181106). Barrett Financial Group is a separate company and is not affiliated with Coop Real Estate or HomeSmart Real Estate Momentum LLC. No referral fees are paid or received. You are free to choose any lender. Equal Housing Lender. This is not a commitment to lend; all loans are subject to credit approval.
WHO I HELP
Every kind of buyer
- First-time buyers: a patient walkthrough of every step, with no question too basic.
- Move-up buyers: timing the sale of your current home with the purchase of your next one.
- Relocation buyers: video tours, area guidance, and local eyes when you can’t be here in person.
- Luxury buyers: lakefront, estate, and $450K+ homes where pricing and negotiation matter most.
- Land & acreage: wooded lots, zoning, well and septic, surveys, and access questions.
FROM MY BUYERS
What buyers say
★★★★★
“Cooper is an extremely professional realtor. He made our home buying process as easy as it could be. I would choose him in every home buying process. Very attentive, very straightforward. 10/10 recommend!”
Nathan C. · Buyer
★★★★★
“We had a great experience working with Cooper! He was very responsive and helpful throughout the entire process. So excited about our new home and that’s thanks to Cooper!”
Diana P. · Buyer
★★★★★
“Cooper was professional and very helpful. I was so pleased with my experience, I would definitely recommend him to my family and friends.”
Kim H. · Client
Buyer FAQs
Do I need to sign an agreement before we tour homes?
Yes. Buyers now sign a written agreement with their agent before touring homes. It spells out what I’ll do for you and how I’m paid, in plain language. I’ll walk you through it before you sign.
How much do I need for a down payment?
Often less than you think. Some loan programs allow as little as 3% to 3.5% down, and VA and USDA loans can allow zero down for eligible buyers. Your lender will confirm what fits. See my pre-approval guide.
What are closing costs?
Fees and prepaid items due at closing, such as lender fees, title insurance, and property-tax and insurance escrows. Read the full breakdown in Understanding Closing Costs.
How long does it take to buy a home?
Once your offer is accepted, closing commonly takes about 30 to 45 days with financing. The search itself can take a weekend or a few months, depending on the market and your must-haves.
I’m moving from out of state. Can you help?
Absolutely. I do live video tours, send neighborhood breakdowns, and can be your eyes on the ground until you arrive.
Let’s talk about your move.
No pressure, no pitch. Just a straight conversation about your goals.