Buying a home — especially a luxury or waterfront property — is one of the most meaningful investments you’ll make. Whether you’re seeking a serene lakefront retreat, a forever home, or your next lifestyle upgrade, this guide walks you through the process with clarity, confidence, and ease.
With over 20 years of market experience and a deep understanding of the nuances in our local communities, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Before you start touring homes, take time to clarify your priorities. Ask yourself:
What type of property fits your vision — waterfront, mountain view, luxury estate, or primary residence?
Which neighborhoods are must-haves?
What features matter most (e.g., open concept, guest suites, acreage, smart home tech)?
Your list anchors the search and makes it easier to evaluate opportunities when they arise.
Your budget isn’t just a number — it shapes what’s possible.
Key financial considerations include:
Your comfort zone for monthly payments
Down payment and closing costs
Mortgage pre-approval — essential for credibility in competitive situations
A strong financial foundation means you won’t chase homes outside your means, and you’ll be positioned to act quickly when the right one appears.
Getting pre-approved early sets you up for success:
It confirms your buying power
It strengthens your offer
It reduces surprises in the process
We can connect you with trusted local lenders experienced in luxury and high-value transactions — including jumbo loan options if needed.
Buying a home at this level is about more than finding something you like — it’s about knowing when to move, how to position an offer, and which opportunities are truly worth pursuing.
This is where having the right advisor matters. I work closely with my buyers to navigate Spokane and North Idaho with clarity and confidence, offering insight into neighborhoods, values, and market timing that you simply can’t get from an online search. From identifying properties early to crafting a smart, competitive offer, my role is to help you buy well — not just buy quickly.
Throughout the process, you’ll have clear communication, thoughtful guidance, and a strategy tailored to your goals, so every decision feels informed and intentional.
My Goal Is to Provide You with The Most Personalized Service that Is Designed to Help You Buy Your Dream Home
The search is one of the most exciting parts of buying a home — and also one where context and detail matter.
When touring homes, pay attention not just to finishes, but to:
Layout and flow
Neighborhood vibe and walkability
Views, light, and outdoor spaces
Future resale potential
I’ll schedule and coordinate tours that match your priorities and keep you informed about new listings as soon as they hit the market.
Once you find the right home, we’ll work together on an offer that reflects:
Your goals
Current market trends
Competitive positioning
In many markets today — especially in desirable waterfront or luxury segments — strategic offers with strong terms can make all the difference.
Standard practice includes:
Home inspection to uncover potential issues
Specialized inspections if needed (e.g., docks, septic, structural)
Appraisal for financing
You’ll know what to expect, and I’ll help coordinate the experts so you can make informed decisions throughout this phase.
As we approach closing day, your lender, title company, and I will ensure all paperwork and logistics are completed seamlessly.
When funding is confirmed and documents are signed, you’ll officially receive the keys — and begin enjoying your new home.
Spokane and North Idaho each have unique market dynamics — from the vibrant neighborhoods of Spokane to the serene lakefront communities in Coeur d’Alene, Sandpoint, and Hayden Lake. Understanding trends, values, and seasonality in these areas is part of making a confident buying decision.
Whether it’s waterfront premium value or seasonal lifestyle considerations, I’ll share tailored insights so you can weigh options intelligently.
Having terms defined in simple language gives you confidence as contracts and negotiation begin:
Contingency – conditions that must be met for the sale to proceed
Escrow – neutral third party holding funds/documents
Appraisal – independent value assessment
Title Insurance – protects ownership rights
Earnest Money – good-faith deposit
When you’re ready to take the next step — from narrowing your search to preparing your strongest offer — I’m here to guide you.
Let’s schedule a buyer consultation to create your personalized strategy.
From start to finish Monique made the process of selling our home flawless. Her expertise in marketing was forefront in presenting, advertising, and staging the home. Working with the photographer to enhance the best photos to ...
Excellent communicator, personalized customer service, attention to detail, and knowledgeable make Monique Thielman a true professional! Highly recommend her to anyone looking to buy, sell, or looking for advice on how to navig...
Monique has exceeded my expectations and is truly a remarkable real estate agent.
Monique is very professional, and knowledgeable, and pours her heart into her job. I couldn't have asked for a better Real Estate Agent. So grateful for her.
Monique was excellent to work with! She understood why I wanted to sell my property but didn't let me be taken advantage of. She even voiced that it was an honor to be representing me because of my family's history in the commu...
Monique was amazing throughout the entire process. We really appreciated her knowledge and professionalism!
Monique is committed to providing exceptional service with a personal touch. Her expertise in negotiation and dedication to her clients' success ensures that you’ll always achieve the best possible outcomes. Her market knowledge and client-focused approach will guide you every step of the way.
