Your lender will order an appraisal to ensure the home's value matches the loan amount .
Before you look at a single listing, you need to know what you can actually afford. process of buying a house
List non-negotiables like location, number of bedrooms, and school districts versus "nice-to-haves" like a renovated kitchen . Your lender will order an appraisal to ensure
Review your credit score and financial documents. Most lenders look for a score of 620 or higher . Review your credit score and financial documents
How to buy a house: Your step-by-step guide to buying in 2026
Work with your agent to draft an agreement that includes your proposed price and contingencies (conditions that let you back out, like a failed inspection) .
You'll do a final walk-through, sign the mortgage agreement, and pay your closing costs. Once the deed is recorded, you officially own the home . Homebuyer's Quick Checklist