What to Expect During the Home Buying Process
For most people, the thought of buying a new home is equal parts exciting and terrifying, so let’s take a quick look at the 5 main steps in the home buying process so you can get an idea of what to expect before you jump headfirst into buying a new home.
First-Time Buyer? Here is What You Can Expect During the Home Buying Process
1. You Will Need to Determine How Much House You Can Afford
When you schedule a new buyer consultation with Cami Jones Collaborative, we’ll sit down to discuss your wants, needs, and timeline for buying a house—and we’ll also get you in touch with our trusted loan officers for a free pre-approval. Knowing that you’re pre-approved (and for how much) will help you set a home-buying budget, and it also means you’ll be able to move faster through some of the paperwork later on.Insider Tip: Depending on your specific situation, you may be eligible for special loans, grants to help with a down payment or programs offered through your employer. Research online and talk to your real estate agent and lender to find out what resources you may be eligible to make your down payment go further!
2. Preview Homes & Tour Different Areas
Now that you know what you’re working with, you’ll have the chance to view any homes you’re interested in by setting up viewings with your agent. It’s also important to visit the community you’ll be relocating to—take a drive and pay attention to the layout of grocery stores, parks, and schools; have dinner at a new restaurant; try a test run of your new commute to work. Really get a feel for the new neighborhood, especially if you’re deciding between two or more different areas! If are unsure of where you want to live in Kansas City, check out our neighborhood guide!
3. Make an Offer & Negotiate
Once you’ve narrowed down your search to the one perfect home, your agent will prepare the offer to purchase and go over all the details. After the contract is submitted, your agent will expertly negotiate the purchase of your new home with your best interests in mind. Our team is 100% committed to communicating with you every step of the way during the home buying process so you know exactly what is going on and if your offer is accepted.
4. Finalize the Contract and Mortgage Paperwork
Once there’s an agreement with the seller on the terms, the paperwork, inspections, appraisals, and mortgage will be finalized. This is the part of the process that can take a while to get through—and there will be a lot of paperwork to sign—but once it’s done, you can start packing and planning your move to your new dream home!
5. Closing Day
This is the big day! Your agent will be with you as you sign the final paperwork to purchase your new home. Champagne is recommended—or whatever you normally do to celebrate an important life milestone. All that’s left after closing day is to make memories in your new home!Let our team help you find the perfect home in Kansas City. Give us a call today! You can reach our team at 913.521.8806. Want to come and see us? Our office is conveniently located at 5000 W. 135th St. Leawood, KS 66224