Steps to buying your first home

Raise your hand if you're buying a home!

So you've decided to join the ranks of a homeowner? If that's the case, and I hope that it is, welcome! Most people who stay out of the real estate market fail to understand most of the wealth in this country was built on real estate. Both improvements to the land and the dirt it sits on.

This article will help you realize homeownership is closer than you think! Here's a summary of the home buying process.

STEP 1: PRE-QUALIFICATION

Talk to your mortgage advisor about pre-qualification to shop within your desired price range. Be prepared to provide your assets, income, and credit history. This is where the loan process begins and it doesn't have to be scary or like pulling teeth. Work with a progressive top producing loan originator and you're all set. My preferred lender Joe Tishkoff with Finance of America offers an online upload system that's super simple to use. Plus, it reminds you of what documents need to be uploaded to complete your pre-approval. The days of long wait times to speak with your lender are a thing of the past. Today lenders know how busy you are. It's on your terms.

STEP 2: FIND A HOME

Work with a trusted real estate agent to find your dream home! Once you find the right place, make an offer and negotiate a final sale. In today's hot real estate market it may take you several multiple offer rounds to be the lucky buyer. That's why it's important your agent has all of the necessary tools included in their offer package. A complete pre-approval from a reputable lender is one of the most important documents in the offer package. The seller's need to feel confident you're qualified to purchase the home. A quick tip: its never too early to shop for Homeowners Insurance!

STEP 3: CLOSE THE DEAL

Time to seal the deal! After the inspections, appraisal, final loan approval, and final walkthrough, it's time to sign the dotted line, including Closing Disclosures, the promissory note, the deed or mortgage, and any other required documents. Once your loan is approved, it's time to pack your bags and head to your new home! But wait... was it that easy? If you're working with a skilled lender and expert real estate broker purchasing a home can seem to be pretty simple. Most of the stress and unnecessary drama is removed from the equation. What you're left with is time to take a deep breath and focus on what's important. Like checking out local schools, restaurants, parks, and possibly deciding how you're going to decorate your new space.

STEP 4: MOVING IN TO YOUR NEW HOME

Now for the tough part! If you plan to hire professional movers, give as much advance notice as possible and start packing now! Checklists help you organize for a seamless transition into your new home.

Without a doubt, moving is hard work. You have to spend time organizing your things and then pack it all up, hopefully all at once. Moving usually stresses most people out more than anything else in the process of buying a house.

Of course, it is advisable to pick a great moving company. Make sure you ask your friends and relatives if they have any recommendations. You could also ask your real estate agent as well. Usually, they are tuned in to who is good and who isn't.

If your mover does a great job don't forget to give them a good tip. Bill Gassett at Maximum Real Estate Exposure has an excellent guide for tipping a mover. It is well worth looking over for some solid guidance.