For buyers
From first search to accepted offer.
Narrow the search, compare homes in person, decide when an offer makes sense.
Buyer process
How the buying process works.
Get ready
Steps 01 to 03
- 01
Client consultation
Set your priorities for buying.
- 02
Get pre-qualified
Talk with a lender before you write an offer.
- 03
Decide what you want
Narrow down must-haves and nice-to-haves.
Find your home
Steps 04 to 05
- 04
Search for a property
Compare available homes and narrow the list.
- 05
Home valuation
Check the market value of homes you like.
Make the deal
Steps 06 to 07
- 06
Contract negotiation
Negotiate the offer across the five key areas of the contract.
- 07
Home inspections
Inspect the property and negotiate for needed repairs.
Close the purchase
Steps 08 to 12
- 08
Title work
Review title work and get title insurance policies.
- 09
Home appraisal
Get an appraisal to confirm the value.
- 10
Prepare for closing
Check every box on the pre-closing checklist.
- 11
Final walk-through
Walk through the property before taking ownership.
- 12
Closing day
Sign the documents and fund the purchase.
Resources
Tools for buyers.
Mortgage calculator
Estimate principal, interest, taxes, and insurance.
Open the calculator →Closing cost estimator
Estimate closing costs before you write an offer.
Estimate closing costs →Printable buyer guide
Julia’s printable guide for in-person reference.
Open PDFChoose your home inspector
Under contract? See a courtesy list of general and termite inspectors.
Choose an inspector →Glossary and FAQ
Common buyer terms.
Pre-approval
A lender review that estimates what you may be able to borrow before you write an offer.
Earnest money
A deposit submitted with an accepted contract and credited according to the contract terms.
Inspection period
The contract window for evaluating condition, repair needs, and next steps after inspections.
Appraisal
The lender-ordered opinion of value used to support the loan on a financed purchase.