🏡 First-Time Homebuyer Checklist
✅ 1. Financial Preparation
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Check and improve your credit score
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Create a homebuying budget
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Save for down payment (typically 3%–20%)
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Estimate closing costs (2%–5% of purchase price)
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Get pre-approved for a mortgage
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Understand your monthly payment (PITI: Principal, Interest, Taxes, Insurance)
✅ 2. Home Search
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List your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves
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Research neighborhoods (commute, schools, crime rates)
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Hire a trusted real estate agent
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Browse listings online and attend open houses
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Stay within your budget
✅ 3. Making an Offer
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Compare recent sales in the area
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Make a competitive but realistic offer
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Include contingencies (inspection, financing, appraisal)
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Submit earnest money (1%–3% of offer)
✅ 4. Under Contract
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Schedule a home inspection
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Review inspection results and negotiate repairs
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Get the home appraised
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Lock in your mortgage rate
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Secure homeowners insurance
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Review all closing disclosures
✅ 5. Closing and Move-In
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Final walkthrough before closing
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Bring ID and certified funds to closing
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Sign closing documents
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Get the keys!
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Change locks and set up utilities
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Start a maintenance savings plan