Steps to Buying a Home

The first step is to find out how much you can afford to borrow.  If you are planning to buy a house with cash, prepare your proof of funds. 

Be clear on what you want and need out of your new home so you can be successful in finding and purchasing it. 

Create a strategic plan with your real estate broker to efficiently see the best homes that align with your wants and needs. 

There are specific details you should always look for when seeing a home. Use a checklist so you remember to cover everything. 

When you want to make an offer on a home, make sure you understand any restrictions which may come with its purchase. 

When it is a seller's market, buyers need to work with their agent to create a compelling offer that can compete with many others. 

If you are applying to a lender for a mortgage, you will have an appraisal.  This process is usually uneventful, but sometimes it can be a surprise roadblock. 

Before you can move to closing, you have to make sure the title is free and clear and insure yourself against future claims.

The most important document of your real estate transaction is the closing disclosure form. 

This is the day you have been waiting for.  Be prepared, be thorough in your understanding, and then enjoy your new home upon the payment of all closing costs and signing of legal documents. 

You might need to sell your current home before you buy your new home. Learn more about the homebuying process with our homebuying guide. 

Ready to buy your new home?  Schedule an initial consultation with John P. Sharp today.  Let's discuss your real estate goals and how our real estate services can help you achieve success.