Time to go shopping
Take a Drive
Get to know the neighborhoods, complexes, or subdivisions, which interest you. Drive around and get a feel for what it would be like to own a property in the area. Start getting a sense of the properties available in those areas.Narrow Your Search
Select a few properties that interest you the most and have your real estate agent make appointments to visit them. Ask your real estate agent about the potential long term resale value of the properties you are considering.Time to Buy
Once you have picked out the property you want to purchase, your real estate agent can help you make an offer that the seller will accept. A good agent will investigate the potential costs and expenses associated with the new property. An agent can also help you draft your offer in a way that gives you the advantage over another offer.Typically you’ll need an earnest money deposit, down payment, closing costs, and prepaid items (insurance/taxes). The exact amount depends on your loan type and price point.
Get pre-approved (not just pre-qualified). A pre-approval shows your true buying power and makes your offer stronger.
Pre-qualification is a quick estimate. Pre-approval involves document review and lender underwriting steps, so it’s much more reliable.
Most purchases close in about 30–45 days, depending on financing, appraisal, title, and inspection timelines.
Yes—if your debt-to-income ratio and reserves qualify. This is common for buyers who want to rent out their current property.
A general inspection is standard. Depending on the home, consider roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, termite, and (in condos) reviewing building financials and documents.
Options include renegotiating price, increasing your down payment, disputing the appraisal, or switching loan programs—depending on your contract and lender.
Closing costs include lender fees, title fees, escrow, recording, and prepaid items. Buyers often pay most of their own costs.
Sometimes. It depends on how long you plan to keep the home and your cash available at closing.
Only if you’re within a contract contingency (inspection, financing, appraisal, etc.) or per your contract terms — otherwise you may risk losing your deposit.