01.

Financial Readiness & Pre‑Approval

Your first call should be to a lender. They’ll help you determine your price point and explain the loan programs best suited to your situation. Aim for underwriting approval, where the lender verifies your credit, income and assets, this carries more weight with sellers than a simple pre‑approval. Keep in mind the 1% = 10% rule: each 1% change in interest rates affects your purchasing power by about 10%.

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Collect documents (tax records, pay stubs, bank statements) and be cautious with your credit. Avoid new debts or large purchases and don’t change jobs during the process. Pre‑approval lets you shop confidently and submit a stronger offer.

02.

The Offer & Earnest Money

Once you find the right home, we’ll write an offer. You’ll include earnest money, a deposit (usually 1% of the purchase price) that shows sellers you’re serious. If you back out for a legal reason (such as a failed inspection contingency), the earnest money is refunded; otherwise it may be forfeited. At closing, it’s applied toward your down payment and closing costs.

03.

Inspections & Contingencies

During escrow, you’ll order a professional home inspection. This typically happens within the first ten days. The inspector evaluates the structure and systems and may recommend specialized inspections (e.g., sewer scope). After reviewing the report, you can request repairs, renegotiate or, if necessary, withdraw with your earnest money refunded.

04.

Final Steps & Closing

While your loan moves through underwriting, we’ll coordinate appraisal, title review and any remaining contingencies. A closing disclosure will arrive at least three days before signing. After you sign documents and the transaction records, you’ll receive the keys—and your new chapter begins.