Step 1: Start Saving for a Down Payment
Before you start browsing homes, it’s important to begin saving for your down payment. While a traditional down payment is around 20% of the home’s purchase price, many loan programs allow for much less—some as low as 10%, 5%, or even 0% if you qualify for a VA or USDA loan.
Step 2: Check Your Credit Score
Your credit score plays a key role in the loan process. Lenders use it to determine your reliability when it comes to making monthly payments, and it also influences the interest rate you’ll receive. The higher your score, the better your financing options. Now is a great time to review your credit and resolve any outstanding issues.
Step 3: Get Pre-Approved
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a crucial step. It shows sellers you're serious and financially prepared—and in today’s competitive market, it can give you a real advantage. A lender will review your financial situation, including your debt-to-income ratio and assets, and let you know how much home you can realistically afford.
Pre-approval is different from pre-qualification. A pre-approval involves a full financial review and is a stronger indicator of your ability to purchase a home.
Need help finding a reliable lender? We work closely with trusted professionals and can connect you with the right one based on your needs.
Step 4: Start House Hunting
With your pre-approval in hand, it’s time to start the fun part—house hunting! Your Boehm Team agent will set you up with a personalized MLS search, giving you access to the most up-to-date listings—often before they appear on public sites like Zillow or Realtor.com.
We’ll help you narrow down your options based on your budget, location, and must-haves, and schedule private showings for homes that catch your eye.
Step 5: Make an Offer
Once you find the one, your agent will walk you through the process of writing a competitive offer. We’ll advise you on pricing, terms, and contingencies to make sure your offer stands out—while still protecting your best interests.
Step 6: Go Under Contract
If the seller accepts your offer—congratulations! You’re officially under contract. From there, your Boehm Team agent will coordinate all the next steps, including:
Scheduling the home inspection
Managing the appraisal process
Staying in touch with the title company
Ensuring all deadlines are met
Our goal is to make your closing process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Step 7: Close & Get the Keys
Once all the paperwork is in order and the title is clear, you’ll head to closing with your agent by your side. After signing the final documents, the keys are yours—and you’re officially a homeowner!
