STEPS TO BUYING A HOME Consult with a REALTOR and get prequalified. Ask your REALTOR to refer you to a loan agent. Fill out a loan application, pay for a credit report and get pre-approved for a specific dollar amount. Find a Realtor who: Listens well Is ready to go to work for you Explains ideas so that you can understand Is familiar in the area in which you wish to purchase Make an appointment to see homes. See at least a half dozen homes if possible before making an offer. Ask for information on recent sales and use your Realtors knowledge of comparable homes. Your Realtor" will have seen dozens of homes for each one you have seen. Learn from your Realtors experiences. Once you have found a home you like your agent should ask you to write an offer. Ask your Realtor about: Purchase Price Deposit Contingencies Inspections Possession date Condition at date of possession Once in agreement, get inspections! The seller and brokers may be unaware of problems with the home and sellers disclosures are not a substitute for inspections. Order inspections not limited to the following: a roof inspection, a pest inspection, a water analysis, well systems, septic systems, environmental, earthquake, soil stability, pool/spa, square footage, age and boundaries, general condition of systems and components, governmental requirements and limitations. A week before the closing date, review the settlement statement and sign papers at the escrow company. Do a final inspection of the property within a few days of possession. Order home owners insurance and advise the escrow company of your agent's name and phone number. Congratulations on your new home!