Buyers

When it comes time to buy a new home and begin a new chapter, the process can oftentimes feel overwhelming. Buying a home can be an emotional journey with ups and downs, and it's understandable to feel apprehensive. 

Rest assured that together, we can navigate the process with ease. We'll outline the process and create a plan together, so you don't have to do any of the heavy lifting.

Start here.

From setting a budget, to finding the right neighborhood, negotiating the best terms for you & creating a smooth close, this booklet will be your guide.

As a buyer, you’re probably wondering…

  • First, you need to consider your budget. Determine what you want your monthly payment to be. Then, determine how much you want to put down. In Virginia, you do NOT need to put down 20% and there are great lending programs available for first time home buyers.

    Next, you need to start meeting with lenders. Crunch the numbers to determine how much home you can afford. Reach out and I will put you in touch with some fantastic local lenders.

    We cannot start touring homes (the fun part!) until you have a pre-approval letter from a lender or proof-of-funds if you are making a cash purchase.

  • The best time to buy a house is - when you are ready! I wish I had a better answer for you, but the truth is that everyone’s timeline and the factors that contribute to your move are going to be specific.

    Are you renting? Relocating for a new job? About to have a baby? Do you need to sell your current home? Closings typically take 30 days, so we will line up the dates to be sure they work for you and your life.

  • Location, location, location, right? Buyers who are clear on their ideal location typically have the happiest home searches. It takes the stress out of scouring every single available listing, and focuses your energy on what you really want.

    There is no right answer, and we will consider your lifestyle, budget, and dream home wish list when establishing the location of your home search.

    I help buyers find homes they love in Augusta County, Albemarle County, Nelson County, Staunton, and Waynesboro, Virginia.

    Looking for a home somewhere else? My referral network is nationwide - reach out and I will connect you with the right agent for you in your dream location.

  • From contract to close, real estate transactions typically last for 30-45 days in Virginia.

    Some buyers match with their dream homes after the first showing, others spend months (or years!) waiting for the right fit. I am a firm believer that what is meant to be will be, and will be your trusted advisor in your real estate search for however long it takes!

I help buyers purchase their dream homes in Waynesboro, Staunton, Augusta and Albemarle Counties…

Buyer Reviews

“Sophie was great to work with. She was responsive, diligent, professional and persistent. When there were a few legal & mortgage bumps she explained everything thoroughly & kept things moving to a successful close. Can’t say enough positives.”

— Jeff W.

“Sophie Bergquist was a dream to work with when we were looking to purchase a house. Very responsive to any question we had and had great information to share about properties and community. Always had a smile and easy demeanor. Would work with her in the future without question.”

— Winnie D.

“Sophie Bergquist is an exceptional Realtor, both knowledgable and kind. Even in the most stressful market, Sophie has been patient and responsive with useful information, new listings, and resources. She has traveled many miles with and for us as we visited new listings. We feel fortunate to have found her.”

— Christin B.

Black and white painted wood floors in an historic Virginia home
A cozy kitchen with lots of natural light, featured in a recent issue of Architectural Digest

Ready to look for your dream home with an eye for design.

When working with buyers, I tailor the real estate experience to your unique vision. Searching for your dream home, I take into account all of the important home search criteria like location and numbers of bedrooms or bathrooms, but I also look at the big picture