The Julie Short Team

05/12/2026

05/12/2026

The Home Buying Process — Simplified

a Realtor can help you find a lender, inspector and other partners in the process!

1. Talk to a Lender 💰
This is where you find out:
-How much home you can afford
-What your monthly payment may look like
-What loan programs you qualify for
👉 The lender will help you get pre-approved, which strengthens your offer when you find a home.

2. Hire a Real Estate Agent 🏡
Your agent helps you:
-Find homes that fit your needs & budget
-Schedule showings
-Explain contracts and negotiations
-Protect your interests throughout the process
👉 Best part: in many cases, the seller may cover the buyer agent compensation.

3. Start House Hunting 🔍
Now the fun begins!
You’ll tour homes and narrow down:
-Location
-Price range
-Home style
-Must-haves vs. nice-to-haves
👉 Don’t focus only on the house — think about commute, schools, taxes, and future resale value too.

4. Make an Offer ✍️
Once you find “the one,” your agent helps submit an offer that includes:
-Purchase price. & Terms
-Closing date
-Requested concessions
👉 The seller can accept, reject, or counter your offer.

5. Schedule the Inspection 🛠️
A licensed inspector checks the home for issues like:
-Roof
-Plumbing
-HVAC
-Foundation
-Electrical and many other details
👉 This helps you avoid surprises after move-in and allows your agent to negotiate repairs if needed.

6. The Home Gets Appraised 📋
Your lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home’s value matches the purchase price.
👉 This protects both you and the lender from overpaying.

7. Final Loan Approval ✅
Your lender reviews:
-Income
-Credit
-Bank statements
-Appraisal
-Employment
👉 Avoid major purchases or changing jobs during this stage!

8. Closing Day 🎉
You’ll:
-Sign final paperwork
-Pay closing costs/down payment
-Get the keys to your new home
👉 Congratulations — you’re officially a homeowner!

Simple Buyer Tip:
You do not have to know everything before starting. A good lender and real estate agent will guide you through every step.

04/30/2026

It’s so fun learning and adding tools to my toolbox!

04/30/2026

When circumstances change, you still have options!

04/29/2026

I can help!

04/28/2026

Escape…..but not too far!