Buying a Home: Step-By-Step Guide

Step 1: Let’s Talk

Start with a conversation about what you’re looking for.

We’ll discuss your goals, timeline, preferred areas, budget, and what matters most to you.

You’ll:
• Define your wants & needs
• Discuss your timeline
• Review the buying process
• Establish a game plan


Step 2: Get Pre-Approved

Know your numbers before you start shopping.

Your lender will review your income, credit, assets, and debts to determine what you may qualify for and what monthly payment fits your budget.

You’ll:
• Choose a lender (ask for my list!)
• Submit financial documents
• Get pre-approved
• Determine your comfortable price range

Typical buyer costs: Generally none or minimal at this stage, depending on the lender.


Step 3: Buyer Representation

Know who is working for you.

Before touring homes, we’ll discuss the buyer representation agreement, what services I provide, and how my compensation works. Compensation is negotiable and should be clearly outlined in your agreement.


Step 4: Find Your Home

Now the fun part!

We’ll search for properties that fit your criteria, tour homes, evaluate neighborhoods, and keep an eye out for opportunities that make sense for you.

You’ll:
• Tour homes
• Compare properties
• Review market data
• Narrow down your favorites


Step 5: Make an Offer

Found the one? Let’s make a smart move.

We’ll look at comparable sales, market conditions, price, terms, contingencies, and your overall strategy before submitting an offer.

Your offer may include:
• Purchase price
• Earnest money
• Financing terms
• Contingencies
• Closing date
• Seller concessions
• Other negotiated terms

Costs up front: Earnest money, which is generally credited toward your purchase if the transaction closes. The amount and terms are established in the contract.


Step 6: Under Contract

You’re officially on your way to owning the home.

Once your offer is accepted, the timeline and deadlines in your contract become important. I’ll help keep everything moving and coordinate with your lender, title company, inspectors, and the seller’s side.


Step 7: Due Diligence & Inspections

This is your opportunity to learn about the property.

A home inspection isn't required, but it is generally encouraged for buyers. Your inspection can help identify potential issues and may give you an opportunity to negotiate repairs or other terms, depending on your contract.

Common inspections may include:
• General home inspection
• Sewer scope
• Radon testing
• Well & septic inspection
• Termite/pest inspection
• Specialty inspections as needed

Cost up front: Inspections and specialty testing ordered for the buyer's benefit.


Step 8: Appraisal & Loan

Your lender gets to work.

If you're financing the purchase, your lender will order an appraisal and complete underwriting to make sure the loan is ready for closing.

You’ll:
• Provide requested documents
• Complete loan underwriting
• Secure homeowner's insurance
• Review final loan terms

Typically paid by buyer: Appraisal, lender fees, loan costs, and required insurance/escrow items, depending on the loan.


Step 9: Title & Closing Preparation

The details come together.

The title/closing company handles the legal and financial pieces of the transaction, including title work, documents, funds, and recording.

You’ll:
• Review your closing disclosure
• Confirm funds needed to close
• Complete final walkthrough
• Prepare for signing

Typically paid by buyer: Buyer’s share of closing costs, lender/title-related fees, prepaid expenses, and other costs outlined in the purchase agreement and loan documents.


Step 10: Final Walkthrough

One last look before you get the keys. 🔑

Before closing, we’ll walk through the property to make sure it’s in the agreed-upon condition and that negotiated repairs have been completed. we will also be sure that you transfer utilities into your name in advance.


Closing Day

Sign. Fund. Get the keys.

You’ll sign your closing documents, your lender funds the loan, and the transaction is finalized. Once the closing process is complete and the deed is recorded, you’re officially a homeowner.

🎉 Welcome home!


AFTER YOU BUY

You made it! Now make it yours.

• Update your address
• Confirm homeowners insurance
• Keep your closing documents
• Check your property-tax classification
• Change locks/codes
• Schedule any planned work
• Celebrate! 🏡