Establish “big picture”:

What are we trying to accomplish? Timing, other considerations, etc.

Determine initial home search criteria:

  • Location
  • Style
  • Features
  • Price Range
  • Schools
  • Etc.

Get “Pre-approved”:

A pre-approval through a lender gives you a better negotiating position and no surprises.

What is mortgage pre-qualification?

Pre-qualification means that a lender has evaluated your creditworthiness and has decided that you probably will be eligible for a loan up to a certain amount.

Why is mortgage pre-approval better?

A pre-approval letter is the real deal, a statement from a lender that you qualify for a specific mortgage amount based on an underwriter’s review of all of your financial information: credit report, pay stubs, bank statement, salary, assets, and obligations.

 

Identify and view homes:

Process of elimination, develop a sense for comparative value.

Evaluate best choices:

Estimate market value and negotiating position based on neighborhood value, sales of similar homes, owner’s motivation, etc.

Submit written offer:

Price, inclusions, earnest money, financing, closing date, etc.

Negotiate an acceptable contract:

“Signed, sealed, delivered.”

Satisfy contract contingencies:

Financing, inspections, attorney’s approval if applicable.

Prepare for closing:

Insurance policy, balance of down payment, change utilities over, etc.

Move into your new home!!