Ready to Buy a Home? Here's What You Need to Know Before You Start

TipsNeighborhoods

May 1

Step 1: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Before you start house hunting, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is key. It gives you a clear picture of what you can afford and helps narrow down your options. Plus, when you're pre-approved, sellers take you more seriously, which can give you an edge in a competitive market. Think of it as your first step toward making your dream home a reality.

Step 2: Make a List of Must-Haves (and Wants)

This is where the fun begins! Think about what you really need in a home. Maybe it's the number of bedrooms, a big backyard, or a home office. Then, list out the things you’d like to have, but don’t absolutely need. This helps guide your search without feeling overwhelmed by all the options out there. We’re here to help you balance your “must-haves” with the reality of what’s available.

Step 3: Start Touring Homes

Here’s where the rubber meets the road! Touring homes can be exciting, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry—we’ll be there with you every step of the way, making sure you’re asking the right questions and spotting the things that matter most. You’ll want to consider not just the house itself, but the neighborhood, local amenities, and future resale value. Our experience helps you see the full picture, so you can make an informed decision.

Step 4: Make an Offer

Once you’ve found the home that feels right, it’s time to make an offer. This part can feel a little nerve-wracking, but that’s where we come in! We’ll work closely with you to help you understand the market and make a competitive offer. Plus, we’ll negotiate on your behalf to make sure the terms are in your favor. From the offer to the closing table, we’ll be your guide through every step of the process.

Step 5: Due Diligence

After your offer is accepted, you’ll enter the due diligence period. This is when you have the chance to thoroughly inspect the home and review all necessary documents, including the title, inspection reports, and anything else that might affect the home’s value or your decision. If issues arise during this phase, you can negotiate repairs, request credits, or even back out if the deal no longer works for you. This part can seem like a lot, but don't worry—we’ll walk you through it and help you make the best decisions for your situation.

Step 6: Closing Day

Once due diligence is complete, we’ll be ready to head to closing day! This is when all the paperwork is signed, the funds are transferred, and the keys are handed over. You'll officially be a homeowner! There may be some final walkthroughs and some last-minute paperwork, but rest assured, we’ll be there to help make it smooth. This is the day you’ve been working toward, and we’re honored to be with you every step of the way.

Let’s Make Your Portland Dream Home a Reality

We know buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. That's why we're here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring the process is smooth, informed, and even a little fun. Whether you're just starting to explore or ready to make an offer, our team’s local expertise and personalized service are here for you.

Call or text us at 503-951-8547 to talk about your home-buying goals today. Let’s get started on this exciting journey together!