“Michelle is incredibly responsive. She typically responds to calls and texts within a matter of minutes, but at latest a few hours.”
Daniel H.Buyer · via Google
Buying a home
Find a home you love. Buy with confidence.
First home, bigger home, or a move from out of state. I’ll help you sort through your options, take a closer look at each home, and know what to expect along the way.
Buying with Michelle
An honest second set of eyes
Homes in Northern Virginia can move fast, and it’s easy to fall for a kitchen and miss the roof. Because I’ve worked in construction and renovation, I’m looking at the things that cost money later: the age of the systems, signs of water, the windows and the deck, and what a “quick update” would really take.
I’ll tell you what I see, good and bad, and help you decide which houses are worth an offer. Then I’ll negotiate hard for the best price and terms I can get you.
- Neighborhood-by-neighborhood insight
- A contractor’s eye on every house
- Strong offers and steady negotiating
- Help long after you move in
Who I help
Every buyer starts in a different place
First-time buyers
We’ll start with the basics: budget, pre-approval, what to look for and what to expect. No question is too small, and you’ll never feel rushed.
Move-up and experienced buyers
Buying while you sell takes good timing. I’ll help you plan the order of things so you aren’t carrying two homes longer than you need to.
Relocating to Northern Virginia
Moving here from somewhere else? I’ll help you compare towns and commutes and make the most of a short house-hunting trip.
Investors
Thinking about a rental or a fix-up? I’ll help you look past the paint to the condition, the likely repairs and the potential.
How it works
From first call to closing day
- 01
A first conversation
We talk about what you need, what you’d love, your budget and your timing, over coffee or on the phone.
- 02
Get pre-approved
A lender’s pre-approval shows what you can spend and makes your offer stronger. I can suggest a few lenders to talk to.
- 03
Tour homes
I’ll set up showings, point out what matters in each house and give you my honest take.
- 04
Make an offer
We’ll study recent sales, settle on price and terms, and write an offer that competes and protects you.
- 05
Inspection to closing
I’ll help you read the inspection, negotiate repairs, keep the appraisal and loan on track and do the final walk-through with you.
After you buy
I don’t disappear after closing
Once you’ve moved in, I’m still here. Past buyers call me about paint colors, fireplaces, decks and patios, and who to hire for the projects on their list. It’s one of my favorite parts of the job.
See how I help on my After the Sale page.
Client reviews
In my clients’ words
“Michelle Gordon is an incredible realtor who helped make our home buying experience amazing. Michelle was with us every step of the way, encouraging, providing relevant and timely…”
Jeff W.Buyer · via Zillow
“Michelle is a great realtor, she is always professional, and easy going! Her knowledge of the market and the area are priceless.”
Oscar C.Buyer · via Google
“My husband and I cannot recommend Michelle highly enough. She is a true professional and extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of real estate transactions.”
AshleyBuyer and seller · via Compass
“We have been working with Michelle for 7 years! In fact we were one of her first clients. Through the years Michelle has assisted us with renting a home, buying our first home…”
Christina B.Renter, buyer and seller · via Google
“I can’t say enough about Michelle Gordon. She is outstanding and is on top of her game! She helped me buy and sell my condo.”
Andrea L.Condo buyer and seller · via Google
“Michelle took us to countless homes and tirelessly helped us search for the perfect one. She helped us through every step of the process and was even willing to look at rental…”
Mary A.Buyer · via Google
“Michelle is a one-of-a-kind agent that goes above and beyond for her customers. Not only does she support you through the entire process, but maintains communication even after. She is a life-long asset and friend!”
K. R.Buyer · via Google
“Michelle is highly knowledgeable about northern Virginia, and provided good insight into several of the properties we toured. She was incredibly patient as my husband and I narrowed our search, and is professional to work with.”
Rachel D.Buyer · via Compass
“Bottom line up front: Michelle is a top-notch realtor who understands and values her client’s best interests in finding the perfect home!”
Arthur M.Buyer · via Zillow
“I have worked with Michelle several times since moving to the DC area and every experience has been fantastic. She is professional, knowledgeable, and easy to work with.”
Springfield homebuyerRenter, then buyer · via Zillow
“Michelle is going above and beyond. Once I found a house she was excellent at negotiating and communicating with the buyer’s agent and kept me informed of any development.”
Silke G.Buyer · via Google
Questions
Buyer Questions
How much do I need for a down payment in Northern Virginia?
It depends on the loan. Some programs allow as little as 3 to 3.5 percent down, VA loans can require none, and conventional loans with 20 percent down avoid mortgage insurance. A lender can tell you what you qualify for, and I’m happy to suggest a few to talk to.
Should I get pre-approved before I start looking?
Yes. A pre-approval tells you what you can comfortably spend and shows sellers you’re serious. In a competitive market, offers without one often don’t get a second look.
What does a buyer’s agent cost?
We’ll talk about how I’m paid at our first meeting and put it in writing in a buyer agreement before we tour homes. In many sales the seller agrees to cover some or all of it, and we can ask for that in your offer.
Do I really need a home inspection?
I strongly recommend one. With my construction background I’ll point out what I see as we tour, but a licensed inspector goes much deeper, and the report helps us negotiate repairs or credits before you commit.
Can you help if I’m moving to Northern Virginia from somewhere else?
Of course. I’ll help you compare towns and commutes, line up showings so a short trip goes a long way, and keep you updated on every step until you arrive.
Let’s talk
Tell me what you’re looking for.
Whether you’re ready to tour this weekend or just starting to think about it, let’s talk. Or call or text me at 703-489-1627.
Where should you live?
Guides to Springfield, West Springfield, Burke, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, Lorton, Alexandria, Arlington County and Prince William County.
Neighborhood GuidesLooking at a rental or fix-up?
What to check before you buy an investment property.
Investment properties