Buying a home involves a lot of moving parts. This checklist puts them in order so you know what comes next.
Before you search
- Check your credit. Get your credit reports, fix any errors and avoid opening new credit before you apply for a mortgage.
- Set your budget. Decide on a comfortable monthly payment including taxes, insurance and any HOA fees. Our mortgage calculator helps you test prices and rates.
- Save for more than the down payment. Plan for closing costs, moving costs and an emergency fund.
- Get pre-approved. A lender reviews your income, assets and credit and tells you how much you can borrow. Sellers take pre-approved buyers more seriously.
Finding the home
- Make a must-have list. Location, bedrooms, commute, schools and outdoor space — decide what you will not compromise on.
- Search and tour. With inventory at its highest level in more than a decade (NAR, August 2026), buyers have more homes to compare than in recent years.
- Make an offer. Your offer covers price, contingencies (such as inspection and financing) and closing date.
From offer to keys
- Home inspection. A professional inspector checks the structure, roof, plumbing, electrical and more. Use the findings to request repairs or credits.
- Appraisal and final loan approval. The lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home's value supports the loan.
- Final walk-through and closing. Check the home is in the agreed condition, sign the documents, pay closing costs and collect your keys.
Ready to start? Tell us where and what you are looking to buy.