The Home Buying Process

Let’s Start Your Home Buying Journey

Understanding the home buying process can better help you prepare yourself, emotionally and mentally, for what is to come and can alleviate some of that stress! Here is what to expect when buying a home:

Before Looking at Homes

Get an Agent
An agent is going to advocate for you and protect your interests. They have a great amount of expertise and insight that can help you make the best decision possible. They will also negotiate on the offer, give real estate advice, file all appropriate paperwork, and ensure that the transaction goes as smoothly as possible.

The Pre-Approval
Once you are ready to take the next step, you’ll want to get pre-approved so that you can be prepared to make an offer. Note that these typically last 90 days but can be renewed at the end of this time period. This allows you to jump at any prospective homes as quickly as possible, and in hot markets, this can make all the difference.

Begin Looking for Your Dream Home

The Offer
You think you’ve found the one! The offer will include your price and any other terms or conditions that your offer depends upon. You will also be required to put some earnest money forward to let the seller know you are serious. This goes to escrow and is applied toward your purchase if your offer is accepted. You may lose your earnest money if you back out of the offer. It is wise to write an inspection as a condition to your offer, that way if major items come up, you can walk away and get your earnest money back. Be sure to read over the seller disclosure documents, as the seller is required by law to put any known flaws in the home in writing. You will also set a closing date, which sets the date in which you get the keys and the home is yours.

The Counter Offer
The seller may come back with their acceptance or denial of your offer price or conditions. Don’t worry, you can counter their offer as well. This can be a back and forth game until both parties come to a consensus.

Mutual Agreement
Once both parties have agreed on the terms in the offer, you have mutual agreement.

After Accepted Offer

The Loan Application
Mutual agreement comes with a price and with that, your lender can start the underwriting process. The time to complete the loan application can vary, but you can expect at least one week during normal business times.

The Appraisal and Inspection
Lenders want to ensure that the home is at least worth the amount they are lending you. This protects you from overpaying for the home. If you are putting up an all cash offer, you are not required to have an appraisal.

Closing
If approved, you will bring your down payment and money for all other closing costs. After signing the mortgage, you are now in the possession of the deed and you will get your keys.

While this is a general outline of the home buying process, any of our knowledgable agents would love to answer any questions you may have and help you through the journey. At ERA First Advantage Realty, we know experience matters. Connect with a local ERA agent today!