How to Buy a House: A Simple Step-By-Step Guide [2025]

 

Here are the steps in buying a house:

1. Evaluate your income, expenses, and credit score.

2. Save for a down payment. Aim for 3.5%–20%, depending on your loan type.

3. Secure a mortgage preapproval from lenders.

4. Choose a local agent experienced in your market.

5. Prioritize your must-haves and visit properties.

6. Negotiate with sellers and finalize the price.

7. Ensure the home’s condition and value.

8. Sign documents and complete the payment.

9. Celebrate and settle into your new home.

 

Buying a house is indeed a very big decision you are going to take, and that is not something you can do on a whim. It takes a lot of preparation since a huge chunk of your savings are going to be taken out. It will also cause you to overthink the smallest details, especially when your budget is just the right amount that you can’t afford to make mistakes along the way. 

That is why we made this guide for you to be reminded of the most fundamental things you need to keep in mind in order to make the buying of your next ideal home go smoothly.

 

1. Are You Financially Ready to Buy a House?

Before you even make a decision, take a considerable amount of time to think about your finances. There isn’t a deadline anyway as to when you should buy your next home. Being financially ready is the ultimate reason to think about your move carefully. 

Financial expert Dave Ramsey on saving for a downpayment: "Like with any task that seems impossible, try breaking down saving for a house into smaller steps," Ramsey wrote. "For example, saving a $40,000 down payment might feel impossible until you break it down into smaller monthly goals. If you pushed yourself to save $1,700 each month for 24 months, you’d hit that $40,000 goal."
Source: thestreet.com

Think about it for days, months, or even years. Do not get baited on discounts, promos, or one-time deals because usually there is a catch, and the catch is something you will find out on the later part of your journey. So, think about it while you prepare your finances to make a purchase.

It’s also a good idea to check your credit score. A higher score can qualify you for a lower interest rate, which means lower monthly payments. And don't forget about the down payment. While many people think they need 20%, there are options that allow you to put down as little as 3.5% with an FHA loan or even 0% with a VA loan.

You may check your mortgage rates by credit score here: https://themortgagereports.com/87625/mortgage-rates-by-credit-score

2. Get Preapproved for a Mortgage

Once you solve your budget problem, and that is basically the hardest part then, you can now get preapproved for a mortgage.

 How to get preapproved:

1. Get at least a credit score of 620 which is the recommended number to qualify for a mortgage loan.

2. Get your credit history in order. Resolve previous issues before applying.

3. Get a proof of income, tax forms (W-2 or 1099), pay stubs, and bank statements.

4. Provide them with your Social Security numbers, current addresses, and employment information.

5. Provide at least two years of consistent employment records or tax returns if self-employed.

6. Document any gifts or asset sales used for your down payment.

7. Apply with multiple lenders within 45 days to compare rates without extra credit score impacts.

 

For a more detailed version, read more on: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/how-to-get-a-mortgage-preapproval

 

3. Choose the Right Real Estate Agent

Always choose the real estate agent with the highest reviews on Google, who has a good reputation via word of mouth, or who has lived in your prospective place for most of his/her life. They will give you the expertise you need. Just tell them what you want and what your budget is, and they will basically do the heavy lifting for you. 

They will handle the legal paperworks, negotiate offers, and match your specific needs. They can also provide extra guidance and answer all your questions without judgement.

 

4. Start Searching for Your Home

Spend most of your time using your phone. Usually you have everything you need at the tip of your fingertips. Nowadays, it is very convenient that even choosing your next home can be done using your phone, so use it well. Now, there will be a high chance that you will be interested in seeing the property in person. Before that happens, coordinate properly with your agent and make sure you’ve done all your research before starting to plan your travel.

 

5. Make an Offer and Negotiate

You will need to coordinate with your agent when making an offer. They will help identify the fair price for the house you are interested in.Agents are also knowledgeable of the recent history of the property since they have access to public records and MLS data and have local market expertise.

Also, prepare for counteroffers. This is where you remain calm and just think carefully about it; your agent will be there with you during the process anyway, so no need to worry.

 

6. Schedule a Home Inspection and Appraisal

A home inspection must come right after the offer to purchase the house is accepted, and this is shouldered by you, the buyer. However, there are cases when the seller is generous enough to provide a home inspection for you as part of the package.You can counter offer if you find issues on the home that weren’t declared, whether intentionally or unintentionally.

7. Finalize Your Mortgage

Your lender will contact you once the inspection is complete. Home inspections are usually a condition before you can be approved of your mortgage. If they ask you for additional papers, then be ready to provide them of what they need because most likely they will ask. And also, avoid taking debt during this stage.

Read more: https://smartasset.com/mortgage/things-to-avoid-before-applying-for-mortgage

 

8. Close on Your New Home

Closing day is when the house officially becomes yours! You’ll sign a lot of paperwork, but your agent or lawyer will guide you through it.You’ll also need to cover closing costs, which typically range from 2-5% of the home’s purchase price. Some buyers negotiate to have the seller cover part of these costs.

After the documents are signed and the funds are transferred, you’ll receive the keys. Congratulations!

 

9. Settle Into Your New Home

Take some time to celebrate — you did it! Now, it's all about making your house feel like home. Set up your utilities, change the locks for security, and introduce yourself to your new neighbors. It’s also smart to create a budget for home maintenance since repairs are now your responsibility.

Helpful Tip: Build an emergency fund for unexpected repairs. Experts suggest setting aside 1-3% of your home’s value annually for upkeep.

 

Final Thoughts

Always prioritize your budget. If it isn’t within your means, then I am afraid you may have to wait and save a little bit more, but you will most certainly get there. Again, do not jump immediately on what may appear like a once in a lifetime deal; instead, think about it, and when you’re ready, just take it step by step.

FAQs About Buying a House

Q: How much money should I save before buying a house?
A: Aim to save at least 3.5%–20% of the home’s price for the down payment. You’ll also need extra for closing costs, usually 2%–5% of the home price.

Q: How does the mortgage preapproval process work?
A: Lenders evaluate your income, credit score, and financial history to determine how much they’re willing to lend. Preapproval strengthens your position as a buyer.

Q: Should I get a home inspection before buying?
A: Yes, a professional inspection identifies potential issues with the property, helping you negotiate repairs or pricing adjustments.

Q: What is a good credit score to buy a house?
A: Generally, a score of 620 or higher qualifies you for conventional loans. FHA loans may accept scores as low as 500 with a larger down payment.

 

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