Pre-Approval First
Before you tour a single home, get pre-approved — not just pre-qualified. A pre-approval letter tells sellers you're serious and that a lender has reviewed your income, assets, and credit. In competitive CT markets, sellers won't even look at an offer without one.
Work with a local lender if possible. They understand CT-specific programs, closing timeline expectations, and attorney closing requirements that an out-of-state lender may not.
The Home Search
Your buyer's agent sets up automated MLS searches filtered to your criteria. But the real advantage is their knowledge of what's coming — off-market properties, coming-soon listings, and homes where sellers are motivated but haven't listed yet.
Offer to Contract
In CT, an accepted offer typically moves to a purchase and sale agreement within a few days. You'll have a home inspection period, attorney review, and mortgage contingency built in. Your agent negotiates each of these — price, credits, contingencies, and closing date — on your behalf.
Closing Day
Connecticut uses an attorney closing model — your attorney and the seller's attorney both attend. Bring a cashier's check or wire confirmation for your closing costs. Keys typically change hands the same day. Your agent should walk you through a final walkthrough 24 hours before.
Franco Malagisi, Artisan Home Network
Licensed Real Estate Referral Service
Backed by 25+ years of regional real estate experience with Marr & Caruso Realty Group LLC. Artisan Home Network specializes in connecting buyers, sellers, and investors with the right local professionals across Connecticut and Massachusetts.