Get Clear on Your Budget

Decide what you can comfortably spend each month, including principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and HOA (if any). This sets the guardrails for everything that follows.

Helpful tool: Use our Monthly Affordability Calculator to dial in a realistic payment based on your income, expenses, and down payment.

Check Your Credit Score

Your score influences your interest rate. If it’s lagging, pay down revolving debt, avoid late payments, and dispute any errors before you apply.

Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

A true pre-approval (not just pre-qualification) shows sellers you’re serious and clarifies your price range so you can shop with confidence.

Find the Right Real Estate Agent

Choose a pro who listens, communicates, and knows the local market. The right agent is your guide through neighborhoods, negotiations, and paperwork.

Start the House Hunt

List your must-haves (beds, baths, location) and your nice-to-haves (yard size, extras). Tour multiple homes—photos rarely tell the whole story.

Make an Offer

Lean on your agent for pricing strategy based on comps and current demand. Be ready to include earnest money and reasonable contingencies.

Schedule a Home Inspection

An inspection can surface hidden issues (roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical). Use results to renegotiate, request repairs, or walk away if needed.

Secure Your Financing

Lock your rate, choose your loan type, and supply documents quickly to keep underwriting on track. Avoid opening new credit or making big purchases.

Close the Deal

Review your Closing Disclosure, do a final walk-through, sign the paperwork, and cover closing costs. When the deed records—cue happy dance—you’re a homeowner.

Move In & Celebrate

Change locks, set up utilities, and tackle first-week essentials. Then toast the milestone—you did it!