Dream it,
Believe it,
Do it!

Start with a monthly payment that works for your life. Include principal and interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, and any HOA fees. Leave room for utilities, maintenance, and savings.

Your next move: List your savings, recurring debts, and target payment. Separate your down payment from closing costs, moving expenses, and an emergency reserve.

Prepare recent pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns, and identification. A lender will review your finances and explain available loan options. Preapproval is conditional, not a guarantee of final financing.

Ask about: Rate, APR, points, lender fees, mortgage insurance, cash needed to close, and assistance programs. Compare Loan Estimates using the same loan amount and terms.

Discuss representation, services, and compensation with your agent and review the applicable buyer agreement before touring. Separate your must-haves from your nice-to-haves: location, commute, layout, outdoor space, and renovation tolerance.

At each showing: Look beyond the finishes. Ask about roof and mechanical ages, water intrusion, maintenance history, and the seller’s disclosures.

Review comparable sales and the property’s condition with your agent. Your offer includes more than price: deposit, financing, inspection protections, closing date, and requested credits all matter.

Before signing: Understand each deadline, contingency, and possible outcome. Earnest money is handled according to the contract and is generally credited at closing; its return is not automatic.

Arrange inspections within your contract’s deadlines. A general inspection may lead to specialized evaluations for issues such as structure, sewer lines, radon, or pests. Review findings and any repair or credit requests with your agent.

Remember: An appraisal estimates value for the lender; it does not replace a home inspection. Verify any municipality-specific requirements for the property.

Respond promptly to underwriting requests, arrange homeowners insurance, and coordinate title and settlement work. Confirm the appraisal, rate lock, and any remaining conditions with your lender.

Keep things steady: Talk to your lender before opening credit, making large purchases, moving significant funds, or changing employment.

For most standard purchase mortgages, receive and review your Closing Disclosure at least three business days before closing. Compare the loan terms, fees, and cash to close with your latest Loan Estimate and resolve questions.

Final check: Walk through the home to confirm its condition and agreed repairs. Verify wiring instructions by calling your settlement company at an independently confirmed number.

Bring the identification and funds your settlement team requests. Review and sign your documents, and confirm when possession transfers under your agreement.

After closing: Set up utilities, change locks, save your documents, and create a maintenance calendar. Keep a reserve for unexpected repairs—and enjoy your new beginning.