Before looking at houses, you must know what you can actually afford.
: A pro checks the roof, plumbing, and structure for red flags like mold or water damage.
: Be clear on your non-negotiables, like the number of bedrooms or commute time.
: The lender hires someone to ensure the house is actually worth what you're paying.
: Limit viewings to about five per day to avoid "house fatigue." Use a Home Buying Checklist to keep track of what you liked and didn't. 4. Make an Offer and Negotiate (2 Months Out)
: Your last chance to ensure the seller made agreed-upon repairs and hasn't left any surprises.
: You'll need cash for a down payment (often 3–5% for beginners) and closing costs (typically 2–5% of the home price).
: You sign a mountain of paperwork at a title company or attorney's office, pay your remaining costs, and get your keys.