How It Works | Ali Shabazz, Realtor® with Realty Of America
Ali ShabazzThe exact process Ali Shabazz walks you through
How It Works

No mystery. Just the real steps.

Here's exactly what happens when you work with me, in order, whether you're buying or selling.

Your buying journey, step by step.

From our first conversation to holding your keys, here's exactly what to expect.

1

We check your eligibility

Before anything else, I look at where you stand, credit, finances, the full picture, so we're working with reality, not guesswork.

2

We talk through what you actually want

Budget, must-haves, deal-breakers, timeline. I'd rather spend an hour here than waste weeks touring the wrong homes.

3

You get pre-approved

I'll point you toward a lender I trust, or work with yours, so you walk into every showing knowing exactly what you can afford.

4

We sign a Buyer Representation Agreement

This makes it official: I'm working for you, protecting your interests through the entire process.

5

The house search begins

I build you a custom list based on your budget and priorities, single-family homes up through 2 to 4 unit properties.

6

We tour homes together

I'll point out what a listing photo won't show you, and tell you honestly when a place isn't worth your time.

7

We submit your offer

I help you price it right, competitive enough to win, smart enough to protect you.

8

Earnest money deposit

Once your offer is accepted, this deposit shows the seller you're serious. I'll explain exactly how it's handled and protected.

9

Home inspection

We schedule a professional inspection so there are no surprises waiting for you after closing.

10

Underwriting

Your lender finalizes your loan. I stay in the loop the entire time so we can catch and solve anything early.

11

Final walkthrough

One last look at the property, right before closing, to confirm everything is exactly as agreed.

12

Closing day

Paperwork gets signed, funds get transferred, and the home officially becomes yours.

🔑

You get your keys

That's it. Yours. I'm still a call away whenever you need me after that.

R
This Is What The Process Looks Like In Real Life

"As a first-time home buyer, being new, I was also nervous. Mr. Shabazz was very patient with me and knowledgeable about the process. He was always one step ahead of the purchase. I am grateful for his help and proud to receive my keys within 45 days."

Rashad · First-Time Home Buyer

Ready to start with step one?

A free eligibility conversation is the fastest way to know exactly where you stand.

Your selling journey, step by step.

From figuring out your home's real value to handing over the keys, here's exactly what to expect.

1

We talk through your situation

Your timeline, your goals, and why you're selling, this shapes everything that comes after, especially if the timing is sensitive.

2

I price your home honestly

Based on real comparable sales in your area, not a number designed to just win your listing.

3

We sign a listing agreement

This makes it official and puts my full effort behind marketing and selling your property.

4

We get your home ready

Simple, practical guidance on what's worth fixing or staging, and what genuinely isn't.

5

Your home goes live

Professional listing, photos, and marketing designed to reach serious, qualified buyers, not just window shoppers.

6

Showings and open houses

I handle the coordination and give you honest feedback after every single one.

7

Offers come in

I walk you through every offer, price, terms, contingencies, so you know exactly what you're comparing.

8

We negotiate

My job is getting you the strongest possible outcome, not just the fastest close.

9

Inspection and appraisal

The buyer's inspection and appraisal happen here. I help you navigate any requests that come out of it.

10

Clear to close

The buyer's financing gets finalized. I track this closely so nothing catches you off guard near the finish line.

11

Final walkthrough

The buyer confirms the property's condition one last time before signing day.

Closing day, sold

Papers signed, funds transferred, keys handed over. Done, and I'm still here if you need anything after.

B
This Is What The Process Looks Like In Real Life

"Due to hardship in 2017, we were going through a tough time. Mr. Shabazz helped my family sell our home. He was patient and caring about the process. We sold the home and a heavy load was lifted for my family. Thank you for helping me and my family sell within 40 days."

Barbara · Home Seller

Curious what your home is actually worth?

A free, honest valuation conversation, no pressure to list until you're ready.

Now You Know The Steps

Let's take the first one together.

Whether you're buying or selling, everything starts with one honest conversation.

Ali Shabazz · Realtor® · Realty Of America · Cook County, IL