The Steps to Buying a Home
1. Consult a Realtor ®
A great Realtor® will provide you with guidance, market expertise, and support throughout the entire process, negotiate on your behalf, and promote & protect your best interest from start to finish.
2. Get Pre-Approved
Determine your “Purchasing Power” by talking with a reputable lender and getting pre-approved for a home loan. You’ll discover what price range matches your desired monthly payment.
3. The Search Begins
Clearly define your wants and needs for a home, then schedule showings to view properties of interest, attend Open Houses, and/or visit model homes if you plan to build or purchase a brand new home.
4. Make an Offer
Once you’ve found “the one,” your Realtor® will help you make an offer to the seller based upon the well-researched market value of the home and any additional terms you may need or desire.
5. Form a Contract
The seller of the home may accept your offer, reject your offer, or make a counter-offer. A contract is formed only when both you and the seller agree on ALL terms. Your due diligence period then begins on this date.
6. Due Diligence Period
Do a ”Wellness Check” on the home by scheduling inspections to learn more about it's condition and ensure it is a wise investment. You may ask the seller to make repairs or choose not to buy the home.
7. Loan Approval
Submit additional documents to your lender to receive final approval of your loan before closing. The lender will also order an appraisal to assess the value of the home.
8. Prepare for Closing
You will activate your utilities, change your address, review closing documents, and do a final walkthrough of the home to ensure everything is in good working order.
9. Closing Day
The big day is here! You will meet at an attorney’s office to sign the closing paperwork and get the keys to your new home. CONGRATULATIONS!!
