Got any questions?
Step 1. Explore and Dream a Little and know what you can comfortably afford
Make a list of your "must haves" in your dream home. Before you fall in love with a house, talk to a lender, I have a list of lenders I can recommend based on your unique situation, or go to your local bank. They’ll review your pay stubs, W-2s, bank account statements, tax returns for the past two years, and credit lines to let you know how much you can borrow—so you can shop with confidence.
Make a list of your "must haves" in your dream home. Before you fall in love with a house, talk to a lender, I have a list of lenders I can recommend based on your unique situation, or go to your local bank. They’ll review your pay stubs, W-2s, bank account statements, tax returns for the past two years, and credit lines to let you know how much you can borrow—so you can shop with confidence.
Step 2. Find the right agent
This is where Rooted Realty makes all the difference. A trusted agent helps you read the market, spot red flags, and negotiate confidently.
We’ll guide you through showings, help you evaluate homes objectively, and make sure you see listings that fit your goals before they hit the market.
Bonus tip: Be open and honest about what you like (and don’t). The more we understand your preferences, the faster we’ll find your perfect match
Step 3. Make an offer and be ready to negotiate
Once you’ve found your dream home, you may want to move quickly. Your agent will guide you on a reasonable first offer to start negotiations based on market conditions. Also, make sure you consider closing costs which could account for 2-5% of the home price. Prepare to go back and forth with the seller a few times on price and selling conditions. Your real estate agent will be your advocate here and try to get you, their client as much as possible for your money while being fair and respectful to the seller and their real estate agent.
Step 4. Complete Contingencies
The most common contingencies are home inspections, appraisals and the financial contingency. After your offer is accepted, you’ll schedule an inspection to make sure there aren’t any major surprises. Then your lender will schedule an appraisal, to verify the price on your offer to purchase matches the fair market value. From there, your lender finalizes your loan, and you’ll prepare for closing.
Step 5. Close and Celebrate!
On closing day, you’ll sign the final paperwork, get your keys, and officially become a homeowner. Congratulations — you did it!