Buying A Home

Finding the right real estate agent is important. Work with a professional who listens, communicates, and knows your community and the market. BUT FIRST, find a mortgage broker to help you run the numbers. Otherwise, your home budget is just a guess.

Visit homes within your budget, explore neighborhoods, and compare pros and cons. This is your opportunity to take notes, ask questions, and consider factors like commute time and future resale value – choosing a home can be a big decision, so make sure you know what’s out there!

Once you find the one, your agent will help you craft a strong offer and negotiate the deal. They’ll also guide you through contingencies, timelines, and anything else you’ll need to know to navigate the offer stage. A well-structured offer can make all the difference in a competitive market.

From pay stubs to tax returns, ensure your financial documents are ready to keep the loan process moving. Your mortgage team may also request bank statements, proof of assets, and explanations for any large deposits or credit inquiries. Staying organized and responsive can help avoid delays in approval.

Beyond the down payment, you’ll have closing costs, inspections, and move-in expenses. Surprises aren’t fun at this stage, so it might be a good idea to budget for things like homeowners insurance, property taxes, and potential repairs or upgrades.

With financing in place, your mortgage broker will coordinate the final steps, including a review of your Closing Disclosure—a document that outlines your loan terms, monthly payments, and closing costs. Once everything is confirmed, you’ll sign the paperwork, the loan will be funded, and the keys are yours. Welcome home!