Once your offer is accepted, you’ll enter "escrow." This is a 30-to-45-day whirlwind of inspections, appraisals, and final mortgage processing. Stay patient, don't make any large purchases (like a new car) that could spook your lender, and keep your documents organized.
Never skip this. They are the only people paid to tell you what’s wrong with your dream home. 4. Distinguish "Must-Haves" from "Nice-to-Haves"
Tip: Ignore the ugly wallpaper or dated carpet. Those are cheap fixes that can help you get a better price. 5. The Finish Line: The Closing
Buy a house you can afford to live in, not just the most expensive one the bank will let you borrow for. Your future self will thank you.
Budget for "closing costs" (usually 2–5% of the home price) and an emergency fund for that inevitable first-week plumbing issue. 2. Get Pre-Approved (Not Just Pre-Qualified)
Aim for 20% to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), but many first-time programs allow as little as 3% to 5% down.
