🏠 Home Buying Journey

Learn the step-by-step process of buying your first home. Click each milestone to explore details and tips.

Progress: 1 of 5 steps completed

1

💰 Get Pre-approved for a Mortgage

Determine your budget and show sellers you are serious.

✅ Essential First Step

📋 What You will Need:

  • 2 years of tax returns
  • Recent pay stubs
  • Bank statements 2 to 3 months
  • Employment verification
  • Credit report

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Shop around with 3 to 5 lenders
  • Get pre-approved, not just pre-qualified
  • Do not max out your budget
  • Consider all monthly costs

Timeline: 1 to 3 days for the pre-approval letter.

2

🏘️ Find a Real Estate Agent

Get professional guidance through the buying process.

📍 Available Now

🔍 What to Look For:

  • Local market expertise
  • Great communication
  • Recent sales history
  • Professional credentials
  • Client testimonials

❓ Questions to Ask:

  • How many homes have you sold recently
  • What is your average time on market
  • Can you provide references
  • What is your commission structure

Remember: Your agent works for you and should prioritize your interests.

3

🔍 Start House Hunting

Search for homes within your budget and criteria.

🏠 Ready to Explore

🎯 Key Criteria to Consider:

  • Location and neighborhood
  • School districts
  • Commute to work
  • Home size and layout
  • Future resale potential

📝 During Home Tours:

  • Take notes and photos
  • Check water pressure and outlets
  • Look for signs of damage
  • Ask about recent updates

Timeline: 2 to 8 weeks depending on market conditions.

4

📝 Make an Offer and Due Diligence

Submit a competitive offer and complete inspections.

🎯 Critical Phase

💰 Offer Components:

  • Purchase price
  • Earnest money deposit
  • Financing contingency
  • Inspection contingency
  • Closing date

🔍 Key Inspections:

  • General home inspection
  • Professional appraisal
  • Pest inspection
  • Specialized inspections if needed

Timeline: 7 to 10 days for inspections, about 2 to 3 weeks total.

5

🎉 Close on Your Home

Complete the final paperwork and get your keys.

🏁 Final Step

📋 Closing Paperwork:

  • Final loan documents
  • Title and deed transfer
  • Homeowner insurance
  • Property tax prorations
  • Closing disclosure review

💰 Closing Costs:

  • Lender fees 1 to 3 percent of loan
  • Title insurance
  • Attorney or escrow fees
  • Recording fees

Congratulations. You are now a homeowner 🗝️🏠

Ready to Start Your Journey

Join my next class or message me and we will map your plan together.

🎓 Join My Next Buyer Class