05/04/2026
ARE YOU SERIOUS ABOUT BUYING A HOME?
Here are the first steps you need to take!
1. Check your credit report!
If you do not regularly check in on your credit report, you need to do so! This is your chance to correct any errors before you begin your search for a home. Lenders will be pulling your reports to check for credit history before considering you for a mortgage.
2. Get pre-qualified!
Pre-qualification is a fairly simple process that can be done over the phone and have results back in about 3 days.
I always recommend starting with the bank where you do business. But, always call a few as each one has different rates, programs and terms. And, don't forget credit unions also!
They will ask basic questions about your income and expenses and come up with an amount you can afford for a mortgage. This becomes your budget in your new home search.
Pre-qualification or pre-approval is often times required by sellers in order to view a property. They want to know that you're serious & able to secure financing before even touring their property.
3. Call me!
With a budget & pre-qual letter in hand, I can begin searching for properties you may be interested in, while you take the next step, which is pre-approval.
4. Get Pre-approved!
You will want to shop around for the best deal on life's biggest investment! Getting a pre-approval shows you are serious and gives you a leg up on the competition when it comes to writing an offer on a property you've fallen in love with!
IE: while someone else is still working through the process of pre-qual or pre-approval, yours is already complete. You are ready to buy, now! In this competitive market those handful of days can make a HUGE difference in your offer being accepted over someone else's.
Homebuying is an exciting and incredibly rewarding experience. Prepare for your new home with these tips for first-time homebuyers.