Client Resources · Buying
The Home-Buying Process
A start-to-finish breakdown, from first budget to keys in hand
This is a general breakdown of the home-buying process in Columbus. Reach out to me anytime if you have questions or want more detail on any step.
21 steps · one set of keys
The process at a glance
Steps 1–5
Get ready
Credit, budget, savings and pre-approval.
Steps 6–11
Find the home
Pick your Realtor, tour homes, make an offer and sign the contract.
Steps 12–18
Under contract
Inspection, negotiation, loan processing, appraisal and title.
Steps 19–21
Close & move in
Final walk-through, closing day and your keys.
Step by step
Step 01
Rent & Establish Credit
Work on building strong credit and maintaining a consistent payment history.
Step 02
Create a Budget
Determine how much you can comfortably afford to pay each month toward your mortgage. Common guidelines suggest about 30% of your income if financing. If you’re paying cash, what is your maximum purchase price?
Step 03
Decide on a Down Payment & Start Saving
Build reserves for your down payment, closing costs and moving expenses. This is also a good time to budget for unexpected costs after closing, or for any improvements or renovations you’d like to make.
Step 04
Collect Paperwork & Talk to a Lender
Gather your financial documents and begin conversations with potential lenders. See the lenders I trust.
Step 05
Credit Check & Pre-Approval
Once you’ve connected with a lender you trust, get your pre-approval letter. It’s essential for submitting offers.
Step 06
Connect With a REALTOR®
Now is the time to connect with the Realtor who will guide you through the process and sign a buyer’s agency agreement.
Step 07
Compare Properties
Review listings that match your criteria.
Step 08
View Properties
Tour homes in person or virtually to narrow down your top choices.
Step 09
Make an Offer
Include:
- Pre-qualification or pre-approval letter
- Letter to the seller (optional)
I’ll prepare all of the paperwork based on the terms you choose.
Step 10
Possible Negotiation
The seller may counter your offer. Some back and forth may be needed to reach terms everyone can agree on.
Step 11
Sign the Purchase Contract
Once terms are agreed upon, both parties sign the purchase agreement and you’re officially in contract!
Step 12
Schedule the Inspection
Book a home inspection as soon as the contract is signed. The sooner it happens, the more time you have to review the findings and negotiate within the inspection period. See the inspectors I recommend.
Step 13
Review the Inspection Report
Go through the inspector’s findings together with me.
Step 14
Negotiate Repairs or Concessions
Ask for repairs or credits based on the inspection results and the terms of your contract.
Step 15
Amend the Purchase Agreement (If Needed)
Finalize any amendments and move forward out of the inspection period.
Step 16
Loan Goes to Processing
Your lender begins verifying your finances and the contract.
Step 17
Appraisal
Your lender orders an appraisal to confirm the property’s value.
Step 18
Title Commitment
A title company reviews the ownership history and issues a title commitment.
Step 19
Final Walk-Through
Confirm the condition of the home right before closing.
Step 20
Closing Day!
Sign the documents, transfer funds and get your keys.
Step 21
Post-Closing
Move in and receive your final documents from your lender and title company.
Ready to start? Let’s talk.
Whether you’re just building credit or ready to tour homes this weekend, I’ll help you map out the next step.
Call 614-762-9232Email BlakeMore client resources