Buying a house is a big deal—no way around it. It’s one of the most exciting things you’ll ever do, but it can also be nerve-wracking if you’re not sure where to start. We’ve created this guide on how to buy a house so you can feel confident and in control every step of the way.
Start by Figuring Out What You Can Afford
Before you start scrolling through listings and driving around neighborhoods, you need to know your budget. First things first, you’ll need to scrutinize your finances. If you’re getting a mortgage, talk to a lender early on to get pre-approved. That’ll give you a clear picture of how much house you can afford—and will show sellers you’re serious when making an offer.
Remember, it’s not just about the price of the house. You’ll also have to factor in property taxes, homeowners insurance, maintenance costs, and maybe even HOA fees. The goal here is to land in a comfortable spot where you can enjoy your new home without stretching your bank account too thin.
Make a List of Must-Haves and Nice-to-Haves
Everyone has a dream home in mind, but finding something that checks every box can be tricky. That’s why it helps to break it down. Start by listing things you absolutely need—like the number of bedrooms or distance to work or school. Then make a second list of things that would be nice to have, but aren’t deal breakers, like a big backyard or a finished basement.
This will help you stay grounded when you’re out there house hunting. It’s easy to get swept up by flashy features, but your must-haves will keep you focused.
Find the Right Real Estate Agent to Help You Buy a House
A good agent makes a world of difference. They’ll help you find homes that fit your needs, schedule showings, negotiate offers, and walk you through all the paperwork. Look for someone who knows the local market well and who listens to what you’re looking for. You want someone in your corner looking out for your best interests and not just trying to close a deal.
Ask friends and family for recommendations or do some online research to find someone you click with. It’s a partnership, and you want to feel comfortable asking questions and leaning on their expertise.
Tour Homes and Take Your Time
Once you start visiting houses, keep an open mind but also trust your gut. Take your time, ask questions, and imagine your daily life in each space. Look beyond the paint colors and furniture—those things can change. Focus on the layout, condition, and location.
And take notes or pictures as you go. After seeing a few homes, they can start to blur together.
Make an Offer to Buy a House
When you find the house, your agent will help you put together an offer. This includes the price and any conditions you’d like to include—like asking the seller to cover closing costs or include appliances.
Be ready for some back-and-forth. The seller might accept your offer, counter it, or reject it altogether. Don’t let it rattle you—negotiation is part of the process, and your agent will guide you through it.
Get a Home Inspection
Once your offer is accepted, one of the first things you should do is schedule a home inspection. This is your chance to fully understand the home’s condition before you seal the deal. A qualified inspector will look at the major systems—roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC—and help you spot any potential issues.
If the inspection turns up something big, you can negotiate with the seller to fix it, reduce the price, or even back out of the deal if needed.
Finalize the Loan and Close the Deal
As you move toward closing, your lender will finalize the details of your loan, and you’ll work with a title company to handle the paperwork. There will be a final walk-through to make sure everything is as expected, and then you’ll sign a lot of documents. Once that’s done and the funds are transferred, the house will officially be yours.
FAQs on How to Buy a House
How long does it take to buy a house?
From the time you get pre-approved to closing day, it usually takes anywhere from 30 to 60 days, but it can be longer depending on the market and your situation.
Do I really need a real estate agent?
Technically, no. But having an agent can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches. They know the market and can help you avoid common mistakes.
What’s the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?
Pre-qualification is a quick estimate of what you might be able to borrow. Pre-approval is more official and involves a lender reviewing your finances. Sellers take pre-approval more seriously.
Should I buy a house or keep renting?
That depends on your financial situation and your long-term goals. Buying is a great investment if you plan to stay in one place for a while and can afford it.
What happens if the inspection finds problems?
You can negotiate repairs, ask for a price reduction, or even walk away from the deal if the contract allows. That’s why inspections are so important.
Liberty Inspections offers comprehensive home inspections in the Greater Phoenix area. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.