Earnest Money Deposit
Typically 1–2% of the price
A good-faith deposit showing the seller you're serious — applied to your costs at closing.
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For Buyers
Free Home Buyer's Guide
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you'll ever make — and you shouldn't have to figure it out alone. This is the exact guide I walk through with every buyer: the costs nobody warns you about, how we'll find your home together, and what happens from first offer to closing day. It's all here, free. And when you're ready, let's talk about your move.
No sign-up, no catch — just the guide, start to finish.
Free · Ungated
no surprises
Know Before You Go
Upfront Costs in Buying
Buying a home involves more than just the purchase price. Here's a clear look at the costs to plan for — so there are no surprises along the way.
Home Inspection
$400–$600+
A professional inspection to uncover any issues before you fully commit.
Appraisal Fee
$400–$700
Your lender requires an appraisal to confirm the home's value.
Down Payment
Usually 3–20% of the price
How much you put down depends on your loan type — we'll find the option that fits your life.
Closing Costs
Typically 2–5% of the price
Lender fees, title insurance, and prepaid taxes and insurance, settled on closing day.
Repairs & Improvements
Budget a cushion
Set a little aside for any immediate fixes or updates you want to make once it's yours.
Home Warranty
Optional, first-year coverage
Coverage for major systems and appliances during that first year in your new home.
Moving Costs
Movers, truck & supplies
Good news: my buyers get exclusive partner discounts on the whole move.
See the partner benefits ↓
three gentle reminders
Before You Fall in Love With a Listing
- Get pre-approved firstWork with a trusted lender to get pre-approved — it sharpens your budget and strengthens your offer.
- Protect your cushionKeep an emergency fund separate from your home-buying costs, so moving in never means starting from zero.
- Ask what's available to youAsk me about first-time buyer programs and down-payment assistance you may qualify for.
let's go looking
Finding the One
Your Home Search
You don't have to scroll listings alone at midnight. Here's how we'll find your home — together.
Custom MLS Searches
I'll set up tailored searches that match your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and budget — new matches land in your inbox instantly.
Beyond Active Listings
We'll look at coming-soon, new construction, and off-market opportunities — not just what's on the public sites.
Professional Network
My relationships with other agents often mean early heads-ups on homes before they hit the market.
Off-Market Opportunities
Through my network and brokerage connections, we can uncover quiet listings others never see.
New Construction
Thinking new build? I'll guide you through builders, lot selection, and contracts — and make sure your interests are represented.
Personalized Strategy
Your search, your pace. We'll refine as we go so every showing is worth your time.
found the one?
Making It Yours
From Offer to Agreement
Here's exactly what happens next — I'll handle the heavy lifting at every step.
Submitting Your Offer
We'll craft a competitive offer — price, terms, and timelines tailored to the home and the market.
Negotiation
I'll negotiate on your behalf to get the best possible terms, keeping you informed at every turn.
Acceptance
Once the seller accepts, we're under contract — congratulations! Now the countdown to closing begins.
Inspection Period
We'll schedule inspections and review the results together, then negotiate any needed repairs or credits.
Appraisal & Financing
Your lender finalizes the loan while the appraisal confirms value. I'll coordinate deadlines so nothing slips.
Title & Closing Prep
Title work, final numbers, and closing documents — I'll review everything with you before signing day.
Closing Day
Sign, get the keys, and start making it home. I'll be right there with you.
the whole journey
Your Roadmap
Your Simple Path to Home Ownership
Ten steps, start to finish — so you always know where you are and what comes next.
Discovery Meeting
We meet to discuss your goals, timeline, budget, and dream-home wishlist.
Pre-Approval
Connect with a trusted lender to confirm your budget and strengthen your offers.
Home Search
Tour homes — in person and virtual — until we find the one that feels like yours.
Make an Offer
We craft a smart, competitive offer designed to win — without overpaying.
Under Contract
Offer accepted! Inspections, appraisal, and financing move forward.
Clear to Close
Final loan approval, with closing numbers reviewed together.
Closing Day
Sign the paperwork and get the keys — it's officially yours.
Moving In
Settle in with exclusive partner moving discounts for my buyers.
Welcome Home!
Celebrate! I'll check in to make sure everything feels just right.
Client for Life
I'm here for your next move, your refinance questions, and every referral you send my way.
kind words
What Buyers Say
Don't Just Take My Word for It
Fantastic first-time home-buying experience!
“Allison was an absolute rockstar from start to finish. My boyfriend and I were looking to buy our first home on a very tight timeline. Allison was responsive, professional and friendly, and had helpful things to share about each property we looked at to ensure we chose the right one for us. She helped us through multiple hurdles — from the initial offer to inspection details to negotiations. Allison made the process smooth and fun as well! Would recommend to any first time homebuyer!”
Sarah Stimpson Verified buyer · RateMyAgent
Smart deal maker and great to work with
“Allison helped me to get a property that was in high demand by putting together a smart deal. She was really great to work with on all fronts. I will definitely be working with her again for other properties!”
Jane Verified buyer · RateMyAgent
Best Agent Ever
“Allison was very knowledgeable throughout the whole process. Went above and beyond for us. She scheduled estimates so we could make an informed decision. She was fun to work with.”
Nancy Hardy Verified buyer · RateMyAgent
Investment property expertise
“We appreciated Allison's expertise when buying a rental property. She helped us research and analyze opportunities in the market so we could make a confident decision. We are so thrilled with our purchase!”
Sarah Barto Verified buyer · RateMyAgent
one less thing to worry about
Exclusive Partner Benefits
Moving Made Easier
Through Pemberton Real Estate's exclusive partnership with Two Men and a Truck®, my buyers enjoy preferred pricing and white-glove treatment on moving day — just for working with me.
Reduced Partner Rate
Enjoy a rate 10% less than the standard rate — covering your moving team, crew, truck, and equipment.
Packing Supplies
Boxes, packing paper, tape, markers, specialty boxes, and mattress bags — all at a discount.
Junk Removal
Through Two Men and a Junk Truck® — clear out what you don't want to bring.
Long-Distance Moving
Moving across the continental U.S.? This benefit travels with you.
Dedicated Moving Teams
Professional, careful crews — scheduled around your closing date.
Only for My Buyers
These partner rates come with working with me at Pemberton Real Estate — one more reason your move stays simple.
your move consultant
Questions About Your Move?
Reach out to our dedicated move consultant for Pemberton Real Estate clients — she'll help you plan around your closing date.
Ask me for the full partner flyer and I'll send every detail.
Backed by Pemberton Real Estate — over $1 billion in Twin Cities home sales every year, built around marketing, technology, and education.
let's begin
Ready to talk about your move?
You've read the guide — now let's make it personal. Book a private tour or a no-pressure conversation about your goals, your timeline, and your dream-home wishlist.
Prefer to talk first? Call or text (763) 257-3436