Home Purchase Guide: How to Buy a Home with Confidence
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or purchasing your next home, this guide walks you through the homebuying process step by step so you know exactly what to expect.
The Homebuying Team That Works for You
Real Estate Agent
- Helps you find homes within your budget
- Negotiates the best price and terms
- Represents your best interests throughout the transaction
Mortgage Loan Officer
- Helps you choose the best mortgage loan for your goals
- Keeps you informed from pre-approval to closing
- Secures competitive interest rates and loan terms
You
- Stay engaged and ask questions
- Provide documents quickly to avoid delays
- Get pre-approved early to shop with confidence
The Home Buying Process Explained
- 1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage – Mortgage pre-approval helps you understand your budget, strengthens your offer, and shows sellers you’re a serious buyer.
- 2. Find the Right Home – Work with a Real Estate Agent to tour homes, evaluate neighborhoods, and submit an offer when you find the right fit.
- 3. Make an Offer, Negotiate & Inspect – Once your offer is accepted, you’ll complete negotiations, attorney review, and a professional home inspection.
- 4. Finalize Your Mortgage Application – Your Loan Officer updates your financial information, completes your mortgage application, and keeps the process moving.
- 5. Appraisal, Rate Lock & Loan Approval – An appraisal confirms the home’s value. You’ll have the option to lock in your interest rate while your loan goes through underwriting for final approval.
- 6. Closing Day – Sign the final paperwork, receive the keys, and officially become a homeowner.
The Homebuying Team That Works for You
Real Estate Agent
- Helps you find homes within your budget
- Negotiates the best price and terms
- Represents your best interests throughout the transaction
Mortgage Loan Officer
- Helps you choose the best mortgage loan for your goals
- Keeps you informed from pre-approval to closing
- Secures competitive interest rates and loan terms
You
- Stay engaged and ask questions
- Provide documents quickly to avoid delays
- Get pre-approved early to shop with confidence
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Benefits of working with a Loan Professional | Find a Loan Officer
Information provided on loan products is for informational and educational purposes only. Every loan product has eligibility guidelines, exceptions, exclusions and inclusions. To find out which loan product fits you best you should consult a Mortgage Loan professional for tailoring your loan to your needs and your situation. FDM is qualified for all these loan products and more, including grants and other unique products.
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