1. Check your finances​​​

• ​Before you start looking at homes, take a close look at your financial situation. Review your income, monthly expenses, savings, and any debt you may have. It's important to know how much you can comfortably afford for a monthly mortgage payment and how much you have available for a down payment (typically 3%–20% of the home’s price). 

 

2. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage​

• Getting pre-approved means a lender has looked at your financial information and agrees—based on that info—to loan you up to a certain amount. This is NOT a hit on your credit! They will use a soft credit check which will give you an initial estimate to help you set up a realistic budget for your house hunting expedition. 

 

3. Find a Real Estate Agent

• A good real estate agent is your guide through the home buying process. They understand the local market, can help you find homes that fit your needs, and will represent you in negotiations. Look for someone who’s experienced, communicates well, and makes you feel comfortable asking questions. - This is what every other website tells you about real estate agents when we all know this doesn't help.

• Ask the agent what their plan for house hunting is

• Ask their plan for negotiating when it comes time

• Review how long they have put for representation on buyer's representation agreement, majority won't tell you and lock you in!

• Download the WCR PDF for more

 

4. Start House Hunting​

• With your budget and agent in place, you can start looking at homes. Make a list of your “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves,” and try to stay flexible. Consider factors like location, school districts, commute times, and nearby amenities. Your agent can schedule showings and help you compare options.

 

5. Make an Offer

• Once you find a home you love, your agent will help you make an offer. This includes the price you’re willing to pay and any conditions, like requesting the seller to cover closing costs or make certain repairs. The seller can accept, reject, or negotiate your offer, and your agent will guide you through the process.

 

​

 

 

 

6. Get a Home Inspection

• After your offer is accepted, your realtor will hire a home inspector to check the property’s condition. They’ll look at things like the roof, plumbing, electrical systems, and foundation. If the inspection reveals serious issues, you may be able to negotiate repairs or back out of the deal without losing your deposit, depending on the contract.

 

7. Apply for a Mortgage

• Now that you have a signed purchase agreement, it’s time to finalize your mortgage application with the lender. They’ll verify your financial information again, order a home appraisal, and work with you to complete all the necessary paperwork. This process is called underwriting and can take a few weeks. Sign their documents as soon as they send them to you!

 

8. Get the Home Appraised

• Your lender will order a home appraisal to make sure the home is worth the price you’re paying. An appraiser visits the property and compares it to similar homes recently sold in the area. This is a critical part to the process. Take this into account during initial negotiations. If the appraisal comes in below the agreed upon asking price you will either owe the difference to the bank or need to re-negotiate with the seller for a lower price which could kill the deal. 

 

9. Review the Paperwork and Close the Deal

• Before closing, you’ll receive a final breakdown of all costs (called a Closing Disclosure). Review everything carefully with your agent or lender. On closing day, you’ll sign several legal documents, pay any remaining closing costs, and the home title will be transferred to your name. After that, you’ll receive the keys!

 

10. Move In and Celebrate!

• Congratulations—you’re officially a homeowner! Now it’s time to move in, unpack, and make the space your own. This is also a good time to change the locks, set up utilities, and update your address. Enjoy the accomplishment and start building memories in your new home.

​​​​​

​​