Even if you know what you can reasonably afford monthly, a lender may approve you for a different amount or potentially decline your application. Job stability, credit history, past financial issues, or a recent bankruptcy can impact approval. Before falling in love with a home, consult with a mortgage professional to learn how much financing you qualify for. Being prequalified can also make your offer more attractive to sellers, as many prefer offers from buyers with prequalification in hand.

This should be one of the most enjoyable steps (second only to moving in!). I’ll organize showings of homes within your budget that meet your criteria. Take notes on what appeals to you and what doesn’t, and observe the home carefully. Test the lights, open and close doors, and try the faucets in different rooms. Also, look beyond the home itself—take time to explore the neighborhood, monitor traffic at various times, check out the parking, and note how close it is to essential places like schools and grocery stores.

In most cases, your offer will hinge on a home inspection to identify any significant structural damage or required repairs. I can assist in arranging the inspection, which typically happens within days of the offer being made. If no serious issues are found, you’ll proceed to the next step. However, if problems arise, you may either renegotiate your offer based on needed repairs or withdraw it.

Though few people enjoy the paperwork involved in buying a home, it’s an essential part of the process. Thankfully, your lender and title company will manage the documents, ensuring that, once signed, you’ll be the official owner of your new home.