Step One – Research

• Obtain free credit report and clear up any issues

• Visit open houses, do online research, daydream

• Declutter your existing home, have a garage sale

Step Two – Prepare

• Select a realtor and discuss lenders (sign Buyer’s Agreement)

• Meet with lender and obtain pre approval letter

• Set aside funds for deposit with documentation

• Meet with realtor to determine wants and needs

  Step Three – Hunting and The Offer

• Property showings

• Make an offer (include earnest money deposit and letter of pre approval)

• Counter offer or back up offer (negotiations)

Step Four – Inspections and Contingencies

• Perform building and pest inspections

• Perform wind-mitigation and 4 point inspections for homeowner’s insurance

• Make repair requests if applicable

• Apply for mortgage *

• An appraisal will be completed (at the request of the lender-AFTER end of inspection contingency)*

• A survey will be completed (also at the request of lender and after inspection contingency)*

• Obtain homeowner’s insurance*

• Review closing disclosure from lender

• Obtain bank check or wire for monies due at closing*

• Final walk through of property

Step Five – It’s Yours

• Closing

• Keys in hand!

• Clean the new house and MOVE IN

• Talk to your Realtor about organizing a house warming party to meet your new neighbors

• Leave a candid review for your realtor, lender and title company to help guide others in the process

*These items carry a cost to the buyer. Some are paid at closing as part of the closing costs, others will be paid for as they arise.