Number of bedrooms, school district, or commute time.
A "pre-qualification" is a guess; a is a commitment. It shows sellers you are a serious, vetted buyer. Shop around with at least three lenders to compare interest rates and loan terms. 3. Find a "Buyer’s Agent"
Expect to pay 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price in taxes, lender fees, and inspections. 2. Get Pre-Approved how to buy my first home
Your lender will require an independent value check to ensure the house is worth what you’re paying. 7. Closing Day
Paint colors, carpet, or landscaping (these are easy to change later). 5. Make an Offer and Negotiate Number of bedrooms, school district, or commute time
Once your offer is accepted, you enter escrow. Never skip these two steps:
You’ll sign a mountain of paperwork, pay your remaining down payment and closing costs, and finally receive the keys. Shop around with at least three lenders to
In most cases, the seller pays the commission, so professional representation is usually free for you. A good agent will find listings, schedule viewings, and—most importantly—handle the intense negotiations. 4. Know Your "Must-Haves" vs. "Nice-to-Haves"
Number of bedrooms, school district, or commute time.
A "pre-qualification" is a guess; a is a commitment. It shows sellers you are a serious, vetted buyer. Shop around with at least three lenders to compare interest rates and loan terms. 3. Find a "Buyer’s Agent"
Expect to pay 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price in taxes, lender fees, and inspections. 2. Get Pre-Approved
Your lender will require an independent value check to ensure the house is worth what you’re paying. 7. Closing Day
Paint colors, carpet, or landscaping (these are easy to change later). 5. Make an Offer and Negotiate
Once your offer is accepted, you enter escrow. Never skip these two steps:
You’ll sign a mountain of paperwork, pay your remaining down payment and closing costs, and finally receive the keys.
In most cases, the seller pays the commission, so professional representation is usually free for you. A good agent will find listings, schedule viewings, and—most importantly—handle the intense negotiations. 4. Know Your "Must-Haves" vs. "Nice-to-Haves"