The First-Time Home Buyer Checklist

Buying your first home is a series of clear steps. Here's the checklist, in the order that actually works.

Before you shop

• Check your credit and fix any errors.
• Set a budget with an affordability calculator.
• Save for down payment + closing costs (and keep a cushion).
• Avoid new debt or big purchases that change your DTI.

Get pre-approved

Compare a few brokers and get pre-approved. It tells you your real budget and strengthens your offers. This is the step that separates serious buyers from browsers.

Find a home & make an offer

• Work with a real-estate agent in your market.
• Tour homes inside your pre-approval range.
• Make an offer with your pre-approval attached.

From contract to keys

• Lock your rate once you're comfortable.
• Complete the appraisal and inspection.
• Respond fast to underwriting document requests.
• Review your Closing Disclosure, then sign and get the keys.

The one shortcut

Let brokers compete for your loan before you commit. Same mortgage, potentially thousands of dollars of difference — the easiest win a first-time buyer can grab.