Find the Right Home and Buy It With Confidence
From your first showing to the day you get the keys, you will have a calm, dependable agent in your corner who helps you understand the market, write a strong offer, and protect your interests at every step.
Start My Home SearchEstimate My PaymentWhat You Get When You Work With Me
Buying a home is about more than finding a house you like. It is about paying the right price, avoiding costly surprises, and getting to the closing table smoothly.
A Search Built Around You
We start with your budget, must-haves, commute, and lifestyle, then set up a search so new listings that fit come straight to you.
Showings With Honest Feedback
I tour homes with you and point out what photos do not show: condition concerns, layout trade-offs, resale considerations, and red flags.
Pricing You Can Trust
Before you offer, we review recent comparable sales so you know what the home is really worth and how much room there is to negotiate.
A Winning Offer Strategy
Price, earnest money, contingencies, and closing date all matter. I help you build an offer that is competitive without giving away protections you need.
Inspection & Repair Negotiation
When the inspection uncovers issues, I help you decide what matters and negotiate repairs, credits, or price adjustments on your behalf.
Smooth Contract-to-Close
I coordinate with your lender, the title company, inspectors, and the seller's agent and keep you updated so deadlines never sneak up on you.
The Home Buying Process, Step by Step
Here is exactly what to expect. Every buyer's path is a little different, and I will walk you through each step as we go.
Free Buyer Consultation
We talk about your goals, budget, timeline, and favorite areas. I explain how the process works, how my services and compensation work, and answer every question.
Get Pre-Approved
A lender reviews your income, credit, and savings to show how much you can borrow. A pre-approval letter makes your offer stronger, and I can connect you with trusted local lenders.
Search & Tour Homes
We narrow down neighborhoods and tour homes that fit. I share honest feedback and help you compare options side by side.
Make an Offer
I pull comparable sales, explain the local competition, and help you structure a strong offer. Then I negotiate with the seller's agent for you.
Inspections & Due Diligence
Once your offer is accepted, you schedule a home inspection and any other checks. I help you review the findings and negotiate next steps.
Appraisal & Final Loan Approval
Your lender orders an appraisal and finalizes underwriting. I stay in contact with everyone involved to keep things on track.
Final Walkthrough
Shortly before closing, we walk through the home to confirm it is in the agreed-upon condition and any promised repairs were completed.
Closing Day & Keys
You review and sign your closing documents, funds are transferred, and the home is officially yours. Time to celebrate!
Monthly Payment Estimator
Get a quick idea of what a home could cost each month. Adjust the numbers to match your situation.
Estimates are for illustration only and are not a loan offer. Taxes vary by county and school district. Ask your lender for an official Loan Estimate.
Costly Buyer Mistakes I Help You Avoid
Common pitfalls
- Shopping for homes before getting pre-approved
- Falling for a house without checking recent comparable sales
- Waiving the inspection or other protections without understanding the risk
- Forgetting to budget for closing costs, moving, and repairs
- Opening new credit, changing jobs, or making big purchases before closing
- Missing contract deadlines that can put your earnest money at risk
How I protect you
- Clear plan and timeline from day one
- Comparable sales review before every offer
- Guidance on contingencies and what they protect
- Deadline tracking and proactive reminders
- Honest advice, even when it means walking away
- Fast responses when you need answers
How Buyer Representation Works
A Written Buyer Agreement
Before we tour homes together, we sign a simple written agreement that explains the services I provide and how I am paid. I will walk you through it line by line, so there are no surprises.
Compensation, Explained Upfront
Agent compensation is negotiable. In many transactions the seller agrees to pay some or all of the buyer's agent fee, and we can ask for it in your offer. I will explain every option before you commit.
Steady Guidance From a Former Paramedic
Before real estate, I spent my career as a paramedic, where staying calm, communicating clearly, and following through were part of every shift. Buying a home can feel overwhelming. I bring that same steady presence, so you always know what is happening and what comes next.
More about meBuyer FAQs
Do I need to be pre-approved before I start looking?
It is strongly recommended. A pre-approval tells you exactly what you can afford and shows sellers you are a serious buyer. Many sellers will not consider an offer without one.
How much money do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the loan. Some conventional loans allow as little as 3% down, FHA loans can allow 3.5% down, and VA and USDA loans may require no down payment for eligible buyers. Your lender will confirm what you qualify for.
How much should I budget for closing costs?
Buyer closing costs often run a few percent of the loan amount and cover lender fees, title, prepaid taxes, and insurance. In some cases you can negotiate for the seller to help cover them.
How do you get paid as my buyer's agent?
We agree on compensation in writing before we tour homes. It is negotiable, and sellers often agree to cover some or all of it. I will explain your options clearly at our consultation.
How long does it take to buy a home?
The search can take a few days or several months depending on your needs and the market. Once your offer is accepted, a financed purchase often closes in about 30 to 45 days.
What if I need to sell my current home first?
I can help you plan both sides so the timing works, including how to structure your offer and what financing options may help. See selling with me.
Do you help buyers outside of Columbus?
Yes. I am based in Columbus and help buyers throughout Ohio, including the Greater Dayton area.
Ready to Start Your Home Search?
Book a free, no-pressure buyer consultation. We will map out your budget, timeline, and next steps together.
Book a Free ConsultationCall 937-729-8632Caleb Stagner is a licensed real estate salesperson in the State of Ohio affiliated with ADT Realty Brokers. Calculator results are estimates for educational purposes only.
Start Your Home Search
Tell me a little about what you are looking for and I will reach out to set up your free, no-pressure buyer consultation. Prefer to talk? Call 937-729-8632.
What happens next:
I review your goals, budget, and preferred areas.
We set up a quick call or meeting at a time that works for you.
You get a personalized home search and a clear game plan.