Home Buying Tips from a Real Estate Professional

Searching for a home-buying checklist online can be frustrating. Many websites are not written by experienced agents, but rather by writers or journalists. Here is a checklist put together by a full-time real estate professional:

Find a Real Estate Agent

A good agent can answer your questions and guide you in the right direction. Find someone who listens, acts ethically, and knows your market well. Here are some tips to get started:

Talk to a Mortgage Lender

Not all lenders are the same. Shop around for the best loan and make sure it fits your needs. Some tips for finding the best loan:

Get Your Finances in Order

Set aside your down payment and avoid making large purchases that could affect your loan approval. Make sure to get a pre-approval letter beforehand.

Find the Perfect Home

After following the checklist, you'll know that you are pre-qualified, have the funds, and the right agent. Some tips for finding your dream home:

Make a Purchase Offer

When you find the perfect home, make an offer immediately. Stand out in a multiple-offer situation by seeking expert advice from your agent.

Close on Your New Home

Once your offer is accepted, you'll start the closing process. Make sure to order inspections and have funds set aside for closing costs.