Wednesday, January 12, 2022 / by Blake Hollaway
The Home Buyer's Roadmap & Checklist

Buying a home is an important purchase but it doesn't have to be stressful. We have put together a home buyer's roadmap to give you some guidance on what to expect when you're going through the process of purchasing a new home.
1. Initial Consultation With Your Local Agent
- Write out your home needs and wish list
- Prioritize your needs and wants
- Find a local market expert
- Get guidance and get educated
- Sign a Buyer's Brokerage Agreement
2. Get PreApproved For a Home Loan
- Speak with a Lender. We here at Gailey Enterprises have some great suggestions we can make for possible lenders.
- Credit check
- Obtain preapproval from your lender of choice
- Formal commitment by the lender to extend credit
3. Start Your Home Search
- Set up a custom home search
- Discuss needs and wants with your agent
- Select homes you are interested in
- View homes
4. Make An Offer On Your New Home
- Strategize and prepare a strong offer based on current market trends
- Seller concessions
- Closing date
- Contingencies
- Earnest money
- Review and present an offer
5. Contract Negotiation & Acceptance
- Negotiate any counter-offers
- Agent and buyer work closely
- The goal is to have a win/win for all parties involved
- Execute contract
6. Contract Deadlines
- Monitor all deadlines
- Inspect the property
- Renegotiate any items on the contract if needed such as inspections, title, and appraisal.
7. Loan Process
- Submit all required documentation
- Appraisal
- Secure underwriting approval
- Do not make any large purchases
- Final credit check
8. Closing
- Title work
- Lender loan funds
- Deed is recorded
- Cash at closing as wire or certified check
- Receive Keys
9. Move Into Your New Home
- Transfer or establish utility services
- Submit a change of address
- Take possession of your new home