Sarah Cullina – Trusted Real Estate Partner

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The Buyer’s Journey

Your Partner in the Chicago Market

Navigating the road to your next home with confidence, clarity, and zero guesswork.

Buying a home is one of the most significant financial and personal milestones you will ever achieve. In today’s competitive and fast-moving Chicago market, having a seasoned professional in your corner makes all the difference. Whether you are stepping into the market for the very first time, looking for more space for a growing family, or relocating to the area from across the country, Sarah Cullina is here to protect your interests, simplify the complex paperwork, and ensure you find a home you truly love.

The Step-by-Step Buying Process

The Consultation & Strategy Session

We sit down (in person or virtually) to discuss your lifestyle, favorite neighborhoods, budget, and non-negotiables. We’ll map out a clear timeline tailored entirely to your goals.

Mortgage Pre-Approval

Before we hit the pavement, I’ll connect you with top-tier, trusted local lenders to secure a pre-approval. This strengthens your buying power and clarifies your exact budget.

Curated Property Searching

You'll get access to real-time MLS listings, private networks, and coming-soon properties. We’ll tour homes together, evaluating structural integrity, resale value, and neighborhood fit.

Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I need for a down payment?

While 20% is ideal to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), many excellent loan programs allow for down payments as low as 3% to 5%. During our initial consultation, we can discuss which options best fit your financial strategy.

As a buyer, my dedicated representation, negotiation skills, and market expertise generally cost you nothing out of pocket. In standard transactions, the broker fees are covered by the seller at the closing table.

On average, from our first strategy meeting to holding the keys in your hand, the process takes anywhere from 60 to 90 days. This depends heavily on market inventory and how quickly we find the right property.