Buyers

1) Clarify your goals and budget

Decide what you’re buying (type of home, must-haves, preferred neighborhoods) and set a realistic budget. Consider not just the purchase price, but also monthly costs like taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, and HOA fees (if any).

2) Get pre-approved for a mortgage

Talk with a lender and apply for pre-approval so you know your price range and strengthen your offer. Pre-approval can also help you move faster once you find the right property.

3) Build your buyer team

Choose professionals to support you through the process:

• A real estate agent (to guide pricing, negotiations, and logistics)
• A lender (to structure your financing)
• A home inspector (for objective condition checks)
• An attorney/closing agent (requirements vary by location)

4) Start your search and shortlist homes

Search listings, schedule showings, and compare homes side-by-side. Track details that matter long-term—layout, lot size, systems (HVAC, roof, plumbing), condition, parking/garage, and neighborhood features.

5) Research neighborhoods and property details

Go beyond the property itself:

• Check local schools, commute times, amenities, and future development plans
• Review property disclosures and past records where available
• Compare comparable sales to understand market value
• Research municipal tax rates

6) Make an offer

When you find a home you want, your agent and lender help you craft the offer. Key items typically include:

• Offer price
• Earnest money deposit
• Contingencies (financing, inspections, appraisal—if applicable)
• Proposed closing date
• Repairs/credits requested (if you have findings to support them)

7) Negotiate terms (not just price)

Negotiation often includes terms like closing timeline, repair credits, seller concessions, and what’s included in the sale (appliances, fixtures, etc.). A smooth negotiation can be as important as the final number.

8) Complete inspections and due diligence

Schedule a home inspection and review the findings. Depending on the results and your contingencies, you may request repairs, negotiate a credit, or renegotiate the offer terms.

9) Secure appraisal (if required)

Your lender will typically require an appraisal to confirm the home’s value supports the loan amount. If the appraisal comes in low, you may renegotiate or explore options with your lender (depending on your contract and local rules).

10) Finalize mortgage details

Once underwriting is complete, finalize your rate/loan terms and provide any requested documentation. Stay responsive—delays in paperwork can slow the timeline.

11) Review disclosures and prepare to close

As closing approaches, review required paperwork carefully. Confirm:

• Final loan figures
• Closing costs
• Title/escrow details
• Any agreed-upon repairs or credits
• What you need to bring and when (e.g., IDs, funds)

12) Closing day and keys

At closing, you sign documents, pay closing costs (as required), and receive the keys. After closing, make sure utilities are transferred, change address details, and keep copies of important documents for future reference.