Buying a home is a big deal — emotionally, financially, and logistically.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or getting back into the market, it can feel overwhelming. But with the right plan and the right agent (hey, that’s me), it doesn’t have to be. Here’s your step-by-step guide to buying a home with clarity, strategy, and as little stress as possible.
Step 1: Know Your Numbers
Before you start looking at homes, get pre-approved. This helps you understand your budget, sets realistic expectations, and shows sellers you’re serious. Not sure where to start? I work with trusted lenders in both Michigan and Georgia who can walk you through it.
Step 2: Define Your “Must-Haves” and “Nice-to-Haves”
Think about what matters most:
- Number of bedrooms?
- Yard space?
- School district?
- Commute time?
I help my clients create a Homebuying Playbook to stay focused and confident during showings and offers.
Step 3: Start the Search
Once we have your budget and priorities in place, the real fun begins. I’ll curate a list of homes, schedule showings, and guide you through what to look for beyond paint colors — like roof age, resale potential, and neighborhood trends.
Step 4: Make a Strategic Offer
In this market, it’s not just about making an offer — it’s about making the right offer. I’ll help you craft a deal that’s competitive, realistic, and protects your interests, including contingencies, inspections, and timelines.
Step 5: Inspection & Appraisal
Once your offer is accepted, we move into due diligence. I’ll walk you through what to expect during the inspection, how to handle repairs or renegotiations, and how to stay on track with your lender’s appraisal process.
Step 6: Close the Deal
When everything checks out, we head to closing — where you sign, seal, and get ready to own. I’ll be right there with you at the table to make sure you understand every document and celebrate the moment with you.
Step 7: After Closing Support
My service doesn’t stop when you get the keys. Need contractor referrals? HOA questions? Remodeling tips? I’m just a text or call away. This is a relationship, not just a transaction.
