Home Buying Checklist
Purchasing a home can be an overwhelming process and many times people don’t know where to start. Luckily for you, it doesn’t have to be! Below is a comprehensive checklist of the entire home buying process to help you understand what’s to come. Now, you’ll be even more prepared when you go out and purchase your home.
Save for a Down Payment.
It’s never too early to start saving for your down payment. You can purchase a home with as little as 3% down, but the more you save the better.
Find a Lender and Get Pre-Approved.
Think of your pre-approval as the golden ticket to start going to view homes. Your pre-approval will let you know how much home you can purchase and you’ll be ready to write an offer when you find the perfect home.
Find a Trusted Real Estate Agent.
The right agent will be able to help you navigate the home-buying process. A real estate agent who is a REALTOR®, like me, abides by a code of ethics from the National Association of REALTORS®.
Start Your Home Search.
You with your agent can go out and view the homes that you have been eyeing online! Your agent can help you narrow down your search and help you find the right home based on your criteria.
Write an Offer.
Now that you have found the perfect home, it’s time to write a strong offer. Your offer will depend on how long the home has been on the market, how hot the market is, and whether any other offers have been made on the home.
Hire a Real Estate Attorney.
Not every state requires a real estate attorney, but Georgia does for real estate transactions. The attorney will be able to answer any legal questions that you may have about the transaction and review any and all documents.
Get a Home Inspection.
No matter if it’s a new construction home or an existing home, you want to make sure you get a home inspection. A licensed home inspector will be able to inspect the home to make sure there are no defects or dealbreakers.
Prepare for Closing.
During this time, your lender will have the appraisal on the home. You will also work with your lender to make sure all of your other liquid assets are available for closing and final loan approval as well as verification of employment.
Close on Your New Home.
It’s the closing day! You will sign all of your mortgage and title documents for the home and in most cases, receive the keys to your home. Make sure you bring your official identification and your verified funds to closing.
Now that you know the steps, to get started, schedule your New Buyer Consultation below!