Buyer's Guide

Buying a home should be one of the most exciting milestones of your life. To prepare yourself for this moment, you need to know what to expect during the process. This step-by-step first-time homebuyer’s guide created by your agent will reduce the stress of buying a home and help you enjoy the journey.

Prequalifying for a mortgage should be the first thing on your homebuying to-do list. Talk an agent who's a REALTOR®, a member of the National Association of REALTORS® for lender and mortgage broker recommendations. (Mortgage brokers don't fund loans; instead they offer options from several different lenders.) Shop around to find the best mortgage for your particula situation, ask questions about anything that's unclear, and make sure you understand the home loan process completely.

It's absolutely vital that you find a real estate professional who understands your goals and who is ready and able to guide you through the home buying process.

Even brand-new homes will require some work. Lenders and insurance companies generally suggest setting aside 1% to 4% of a home's value for annual maintenance costs. Don't leave yourself short and let your home deteriorate.

Compile a list of three or four neighborhoods where you'd like to live, taking into account factors that matter to you, such as nearby healthcare options, schools, recreational facilities, shopping and area expansion plans.