Buying Your First Home
A clear, step-by-step homebuying process guided by verified, licensed professionals.
Booking is free and available 24/7.
Your 5-Step Homebuying Journey
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Step 1: Mortgage Pre-Approval — Loan Officer
Determine your budget, monthly payment range, and maximum purchase price. Review loan options such as Conventional, FHA, or VA financing, and explore available down-payment assistance programs.
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Step 2: Home Search & Offer — REALTOR®
Tour properties, evaluate market value, and submit a competitive offer. Your REALTOR® will guide negotiations, inspections, repairs, and seller credits.
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Step 3: Inspection, Appraisal & Underwriting — Loan Officer & REALTOR®
Complete the home inspection and appraisal, satisfy lender conditions, and finalize loan approval. Lock in your interest rate and prepare for closing.
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Step 4: Homeowners Insurance & Closing — Insurance Agent
Secure homeowners insurance and issue a binder naming your lender. Review the Closing Disclosure, sign final documents, and receive your keys.
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Step 5: Taxes & Homestead — Tax Professional or CPA
File your Homestead Exemption and ensure you’re set up to claim eligible mortgage interest and property tax deductions. Plan ahead to maximize long-term tax savings.
Questions First-Time Homebuyers Ask
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You can ask about down-payment assistance programs and seller concessions. These options may help lower the total cash required at closing, depending on eligibility and market conditions.
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It’s best to avoid opening new credit accounts or making large purchases until after your loan has fully funded. Changes to your credit profile can affect final loan approval.
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Always verify wire instructions directly with the title or escrow company using a confirmed phone number before sending any funds. Never rely solely on email instructions.
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After closing, file for your Homestead Exemption (where applicable) and keep important documents such as your Closing Disclosure and mortgage interest statement (IRS Form 1098) for tax purposes.
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For self-employed or 1099 borrowers, a bank-statement loan may be an initial option. In some cases, refinancing into a conventional loan after 12–18 months may be possible, subject to qualification.
4.5 stars by 27 customers
“Our agent really took the time to understand what we were looking for and never rushed us into a decision.”
— Former Customer“As a self-employed buyer, having someone explain Non-QM options in plain language made a huge difference.”
— Former Customer“Having a CPA involved gave us confidence that nothing was being overlooked.”
— Former Customer