Complete Home Buyer Checklist

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1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Before you start house hunting, meet with a lender to get pre-approved. This gives you a clear understanding of your budget and strengthens your position when making an offer.

2. Choose a Local Real Estate Expert

Work with a licensed REALTOR® who understands the local market and will guide you through every step. A knowledgeable agent is your best asset in a competitive market.

3. Determine Your Needs and Priorities

Make a list of must-haves, nice-to-haves, and dealbreakers. Consider things like location, square footage, number of bedrooms, school districts, and commute time.

4. Begin Touring Homes

With your agent, schedule property tours and attend open houses. Take notes, compare features, and keep your long-term goals in mind.

5. Review Market Trends and Property Values

Stay informed about neighborhood trends, average days on market, and recent comparable sales. Your agent can provide valuable insights and data.

6. Make an Offer

Once you find the right home, your agent will help you craft a competitive offer based on market conditions, recent comps, and seller motivation.

7. Schedule a Home Inspection

Hire a licensed inspector to evaluate the property’s condition. Review the report carefully and ask your agent to help negotiate any repairs or credits if needed.

8. Secure Final Mortgage Approval

Work closely with your lender to complete the underwriting process and submit any additional required documentation.

9. Conduct a Final Walkthrough

Do a last walkthrough of the home 24–48 hours before closing to confirm that agreed-upon repairs were completed and the property is in the expected condition.

10. Closing Day

Sign the final documents, transfer funds, and receive the keys to your new home. Congratulations — you’re officially a homeowner!

1. Partner with a Trusted Local REALTOR®

Choose a real estate professional with proven experience in your area. A knowledgeable agent can help you set the right price, market your home effectively, and negotiate strong offers.

2. Review Your Home’s Value and the Local Market

Get a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to understand current market conditions, pricing strategy, and expected timelines.

3. Declutter and Deep Clean

First impressions matter. Remove personal items, clean thoroughly, and consider light staging to highlight your home’s best features.

4. Make Necessary Repairs or Upgrades

Address any deferred maintenance and consider cost-effective updates like painting, landscaping, or lighting to increase appeal and value.

5. Prepare for Professional Photos and Marketing

High-quality photos and marketing materials are essential for attracting buyers. Your agent will coordinate this step for maximum exposure.

6. Set the Right Price

Pricing too high can scare buyers away. Pricing too low leaves money on the table. Your agent will help you determine a competitive, strategic price.

7. List Your Property and Go Live on the MLS

Once your home is ready, your agent will list it across online platforms, social media, and the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) to reach as many qualified buyers as possible.

8. Prepare for Showings and Open Houses

Keep your home tidy, well-lit, and smelling fresh. Be flexible with showing times and open houses to maximize exposure.

9. Review Offers and Negotiate Terms

When offers come in, your agent will help you evaluate each one and negotiate the best price and terms based on your goals.

10. Closing Process

Once under contract, the buyer will conduct inspections and finalize financing. You’ll sign documents at closing and hand over the keys. Congratulations on a successful sale!