BEFORE YOU START YOUR HOME SEARCH
Start by getting clear on why you’re buying. Are you looking to build wealth, stop renting, shorten your commute, create more space for your family, or prepare for the future? Your goals will help determine the right location, property type, price range, and timeline.
You should also review your credit, organize your finances, and begin preparing for the mortgage process before you start seriously touring homes.
10 STEPS TO BUYING A HOME
1. Buyer Consultation & Choose Your Agent
We start by discussing your goals, timing, budget, preferred areas, and what you want your next home to accomplish.
2. Get Pre-Approved by a Lender
A strong pre-approval helps establish your budget and positions you to act quickly when the right home becomes available.
3. Create Your Home Search Criteria
We narrow your search based on location, property type, size, features, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
4. Tour Properties
We evaluate homes in person or virtually and help you understand pricing, condition, neighborhood differences, and market competition.
5. Submit a Strong Offer
When you find the right home, we help structure an offer based on the property, comparable sales, market conditions, and your priorities.
6. Negotiate & Go Under Contract
We negotiate price, terms, contingencies, timelines, and other contract details to protect your interests.
7. Complete the Home Inspection
Your inspection helps identify property conditions and potential concerns. We help you understand your options and negotiate when appropriate.
8. Appraisal & Final Mortgage Approval
Your lender completes underwriting and the appraisal while we help keep deadlines, documents, and the transaction moving forward.
9. Final Walkthrough
Before settlement, you’ll verify that the property is in the expected condition and agreed-upon repairs have been completed.
10. Settlement Day
You’ll sign your final documents, complete the purchase, and receive the keys to your new home.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR FINANCING OPTIONS
Different buyers may qualify for different financing programs. Common options include FHA, Conventional, VA, and USDA loans. There are also down payment and homebuyer assistance programs available in Washington, DC and Maryland.
