Steps to Buying a Home
Buying a home can feel overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be. This guide walks through the homebuying process step by step, so you know what usually happens and what to expect along the way.
Get a General Financial Picture
Before looking at homes, it helps to understand where you stand financially.
This includes:
- Your income
- Your monthly expenses
- Your savings
- Your credit history
You don’t need everything perfect — just a clear starting point.
For details, see Credit & Budget .
Learn How Much Home You Can Comfortably Afford
This step is about setting a comfortable price range, not just the maximum you might qualify for.
Think about:
A monthly payment that fits your lifestyle
Room for savings and emergencies
Ongoing costs like insurance and maintenance
More on this in How Much House Can I Afford?
Get Pre-Approved
A pre-approval is when a lender reviews your financial information and estimates how much you may be able to borrow.
It helps you:
Shop with confidence
Strengthen your offer
Avoid surprises later
Learn more on the Pre-Approval page.
Find a Home You Like
Once you know your range, you can start searching for homes.
This usually includes:
Browsing listings
Touring homes in person or online
Narrowing down neighborhoods and features
Take your time. This is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make.
Make an Offer
When you find the right home, you submit an offer.
An offer includes:
The price you’re willing to pay
Terms and conditions
A proposed closing timeline
Your agent can help guide this step.
Inspections, Appraisal, and Final Review
After your offer is accepted, several checks happen behind the scenes.
These often include:
A home inspection
An appraisal
Final lender review
This step helps confirm the home’s condition and value.
Closing on the Home
Closing is the final step.
You’ll:
Sign paperwork
Pay closing costs
Receive the keys to your new home
Once this is complete, the home is officially yours.
Buying a Home Is a Process, Not a Race
Every buyer moves at a different pace.
Understanding the steps ahead of time helps you:
Feel more confident
Make better decisions
Avoid unnecessary stress
If you want help figuring out where you are in this process, the Home Readiness Check™ can help point you in the right direction.