The Home Buying Process:

Find out exactly what you need to know and the steps you need to take to get you the home you want.

Take it seriously

So you’re thinking about buying your first home. A place to call your very own-a place to lay the foundations of memories for your family. It’s a big move, seriously big move!

Buying a home is a major investment. It’s not a pair of shoes; you can’t return it if you decide you don’t like it or it doesn’t fit. The journey of buying your new home isn’t always easy but, in the end, will be very rewarding.

The key to getting the keys…

The key to your first home is as simple as creating relationships with experts who can help you through the entire process. Let me share with you my tips to take during your home buying process and explain who you’ll need along the way.

Do your homework

Before you begin to scour the web for your dream home, it’s best to contact your mortgage lender and get the loan process started. The lending process for a first time home can be lengthy, and you want to know where you stand and what you are up against before you fall in love with a house that is out of reach. Choosing the right lender is essential as you will be working closely with them throughout the entire process.

Your lender will help you identify which mortgage is right for you. You will need to provide the lender with paperwork showing proof of income, employment status, and other vital financials.

Your New BFF

Once your approved and you know your price range, it’s time to find your new best friend. Yes, your realtor will become your new best friend as he/she will get to know you well to look for the perfect home. You may also consider finding your agent first so that they can recommend lenders that fit your needs.

Now that you have both an agent who knows your housing preferences and a budget — and a lender to finance a house within that budget — it’s time to get serious about viewing homes. Your agent will provide listings you may like based on your preferences. Then comes the fun part…viewing the homes in person with your agent, which gives you the unique opportunity to evaluate properties in a way you can’t online.

Take a deep breath

Once you find the right home, you’ll work with your agent to craft an offer that not only specifies the price you’re willing to pay but also the proposed settlement date and contingencies — other conditions that must be agreed upon by both parties, such as giving you the ability to do a home inspection and request repairs. This is an area where your agent can provide real value by using their expert negotiating skills to haggle on your behalf and capture you the best deal.

The last stage of the home-buying process is the settlement or closing. This is when you sign the final ownership and make this whole thing official.