A first-time homebuyer’s roadmap.
Buying your first home is a major milestone—and one of the most rewarding financial decisions you’ll ever make. Despite what headlines might suggest, many people are still actively purchasing homes. If you're in a solid financial position, now can still be a smart time to buy. Spring is also a peak season for new listings, so keep an eye out—this is generally a great time to start your homebuying journey.
As a mortgage loan originator who works with first-time buyers every day, I’ve seen the homebuying journey from every angle. It can be exciting and overwhelming all at once—but with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be intimidating.
Here’s what to expect at each stage and how to prepare along the way.
1. Start with mortgage pre-qualification.
Before you even begin looking at listings, meet with a lender to get pre-qualified. This not only helps you understand what you can realistically afford but also shows sellers you’re serious. In competitive markets, a pre-qualification can make the difference between winning and losing a home.Working with a local lender who understands your community can make the process smoother. They’ll walk you through your mortgage options, whether that’s a fixed-rate loan, FHA, or USDA, and help you choose the one that best fits your needs. I always recommend comparing a few offers to make sure you’re getting the best possible terms.
Equally important is building a relationship with a lender you trust. Having a knowledgeable, responsive lender by your side can turn a potentially overwhelming process into a smooth and rewarding experience.
2. Choose a trusted real estate agent.
A great agent does more than find homes, they guide you through the entire buying process, negotiate on your behalf, and help you avoid common pitfalls. Ask friends or family for referrals, and don’t be afraid to interview a few agents before committing.3. Begin house hunting.
Online tools like Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com are helpful for exploring listings and neighborhoods. I always advise buyers to create a list of must-haves vs. nice-to-haves—this keeps you focused when emotions run high during the search.4. Make an offer.
Once you’ve found “the one,” your agent will help you craft a competitive offer based on comparable sales and current market conditions. In a seller’s market, this step is critical—you want to stand out without overextending yourself financially.5. Attorney review.
This is where your real estate attorney steps in to protect your interests. They’ll review the purchase agreement, identify any red flags, and ensure the contract is fair and legally sound.6. Finalize your mortgage and enter escrow.
Once your offer is accepted, you’ll officially apply for the mortgage. This is when we’ll lock in your interest rate, complete required disclosures, and guide you through the documentation. Meanwhile, the transaction moves into escrow—a holding period where inspections, title work, and paperwork get squared away.7. Inspection and appraisal.
These two steps are vital. The inspection ensures the home is safe and structurally sound, while the appraisal confirms its market value. Both protect you—and your lender—from unforeseen issues or overpaying. First-timer tip: Never skip the inspection, even on a newly built home.8. Closing day.
This is the big moment! You’ll sign final paperwork, pay your closing costs, and officially become a homeowner. A final walk-through the day before is a smart move—just to make sure everything’s in order.
Ready to Begin?
Whether you're just starting to dream or are already deep into the house hunt, I’m here to help you every step of the way. Feel free to reach out—I’m happy to answer questions, offer guidance, or just help you take that first confident step forward.Buying your first home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—with a strong team by your side, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.
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Everwise also offers free online home buying modules where you can learn at your own pace about the benefits, responsibilities, and financial aspects of homeownership.
Salli joined Everwise in 1999 and has 26 years of experience working in the financial services industry. She serves the Plymouth, Walkerton, and Rochester areas as a mortgage loan originator.
There are a lot of decisions to make when you are looking for a mortgage, especially as a first-time homebuyer. Salli can help you understand your options and ensure you get the mortgage that best fits your needs.