Home Buying Guide

Find Your Dream Home

Have a home buying plan

Your home will likely be the most significant financial investment you’ll ever make. That’s why it’s imperative that you approach it thoughtfully, do the research, have a plan, and work with the right REALTOR® by your side who is dedicated, focused, and forward-thinking.

The Home Buying Process

6 Main Steps to Success

1. Choose a REALTOR®

Choosing an experienced real estate sales agent who will provide you with valuable expertise and resources, and guide you through the entire home buying process is a critical first step in kicking off your home buying journey.

4. Negotiate the contract.

Once you’re ready to make an offer, your REALTOR® will want to understand all of the details so that they can properly position your offer. This will include factors such as whether or not you need to sell your current home, and if you have cash available to made earnest and option money deposits.

2. Qualify your funds.

When purchasing a home, you’ll have to determine if you’re paying in cash or financing. If paying in cash, you’ll have to provide proof of funds, and if you decide to finance, you’ll want to get pre-qualified or better yet, pre-approved with a lender. This will show sellers that you are ready to buy, as you’ll formally know the amount and type of mortgage a lender is willing to offer, along with the terms.

5. Enter escrow and complete appraisal & inspection.

Once your offer is accepted, your earnest money will be deposited into an escrow account and it’s time to plan for the appraisal and inspections. This is your due diligence period to ensure that the property is in good condition and meets your expectations.

3. Make your wish list.

After your budget is determined, it’s time to start making your wish list, which should include both your “must haves” and “nice to haves.” This should detail features and benefits that you want in your next home, while also considering factors like price, location, size, schools, design, functionality, and amenities.

6. Time to close!

Prior to closing, you will have a final walkthrough of your home to make sure that any negotiated repairs were properly completed, and that the house is in the same (or better) condition as when you made the offer. Your loan documents will be delivered to the title company, get signed, deliver the remaining payment to the sellers, and then get the keys to your new home!