Buyer Resources | ReShawna Leaven

Buying Your Home in the DMV

Whether you're buying your first condo or your forever estate, I provide the strategy, negotiation skills, and market insight to get you to the closing table.

My Buying Strategy

Buying a home in DC, Maryland, or Virginia requires more than just browsing listings. It requires a strategic partner who understands contracts, contingencies, and how to win in a competitive market without overpaying.

The "Buyer Consultation" First

I don't just open doors; I build a roadmap. Before we view homes, we sit down (or Zoom) to discuss your financing, your "must-haves" vs. "nice-to-haves," and the specific neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle and budget.

Who I Help

I have extensive experience guiding buyers through various life stages and financial situations.

1. First-Time Home Buyers

Stop renting and start building equity.

  • Navigating Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs (HPAP, MMP, VHDA)
  • Explaining the "hidden costs" of buying
  • Step-by-step guidance from pre-approval to keys
  • Credit repair resources

2. VA & Military Buyers

Serving those who serve us.

  • 0% Down payment strategies
  • Understanding the VA Appraisal process
  • Maximizing your BAH
  • Buying when you are deployed or out-of-state

3. New Construction

Don't walk into a sales office unrepresented.

  • Why the "Site Agent" represents the builder, not you
  • Negotiating upgrades and closing cost credits
  • Managing pre-drywall and final walkthrough inspections
  • Understanding builder warranties

4. Relocation to the DMV

Moving for Government, Tech, or Corporate roles.

  • Virtual tours and FaceTime walkthroughs
  • Neighborhood matching based on commute times
  • Coordinating with relocation companies
  • Remote closings

5. Move-Up Buyers

Buying and Selling at the same time.

  • Coordinating simultaneous settlements
  • Bridge loan options
  • Home sale contingencies
  • Rent-back agreements so you only move once

6. Investors & Multi-Family

Building wealth through real estate.

  • Analyzing Cap Rates and Cash-on-Cash return
  • Identifying "House Hacking" opportunities
  • Buying distressed properties for BRRRR
  • Understanding DC/MD/VA landlord laws

7. Luxury Buyers

Discretion and high-level negotiation.

  • Access to off-market and "Coming Soon" listings
  • Jumbo loan financing resources
  • Privacy-focused transactions
  • Evaluating high-end amenities and smart home tech

8. Fixer-Uppers & Renovation Loans

Creating your dream home from a shell.

  • FHA 203k and Homestyle Renovation loans
  • Identifying structural vs. cosmetic issues
  • Contractor referrals and estimates
  • "Sweat Equity" potential

Buyer Video Library

Watch these guides to understand the buying process before we meet.

Rent vs. Buy

Does it make financial sense for you to buy right now?

The Buying Process Explained

A simple timeline of what happens from start to finish.

Understanding Closing Costs

How much cash do you actually need on closing day?

Winning in a Seller's Market

Strategies to get your offer accepted over the competition.

Home Inspections 101

What we look for regarding the roof, foundation, and systems.

Buying New Construction

Why you need an agent even when buying from a builder.

Ready to Start Your Home Search?

Let's schedule a 15-minute consultation to discuss your goals.

Schedule Buyer Consultation