Homebuying Process: 7 Steps to Buying a House

The steps include getting your finances ready and finding the best mortgage and the right lender. Links to resources provided.

NerdWalletDecember 20, 2019
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Buying a home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With this step-by-step guide, we’ve broken down the homebuying process to make it manageable and predictable, and to reduce the obstacles to purchasing a house.

Complete each of the steps below and you’ll be well on your way to homeownership.

1. Check your credit score

A higher score is the single most powerful way to earn a lower mortgage interest rate. Know the mortgage options your credit score allows.

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2. Set a down payment goal

Getting your personal finances in order is a crucial part of a smooth homebuying process. Now’s the time to figure out what price range is affordable for you. A key component of that decision is determining how much you want to save for a down payment. Then, track your progress to that goal.

» MORE: How much house can you afford?

3. Find the best mortgage for you

Adjustable-rate (ARM) or fixed-rate? Government-backed or conventional? Before you decide which type of mortgage to pursue, it’s important to learn the advantages and drawbacks of each one.

Choosing the right type of mortgage can boost your chances of approval or save you thousands in the long run. Next, you can get a clearer picture of your financial commitment by estimating your monthly mortgage payment, including interest and additional costs.

» MORE: 8 loans and programs for first-time home buyers

4. Find the right mortgage lender

Choosing a mortgage is a long-term commitment, so it’s worth your time to shop around for the best mortgage lender. Be sure to ask about the closing costs you’ll be responsible for, as the answer varies by lender. Keep an eye on current mortgage rates and compare multiple lenders so you can be confident that you’re getting the best deal.

» MORE: Tips for finding the best mortgage lenders

5. Get preapproved for a mortgage — then shop

Working with a lender to get preapproved for a mortgage is an important step in accurately determining your budget. A preapproval letter shows sellers and real estate agents that you’re a serious buyer and can give you a crucial edge over competing home shoppers.

Keep in mind that a preapproval letter is typically valid for only 60 to 90 days, after which it will need to be updated.

Then for the fun part: shopping for your home. Is a good school district important to you? Access to public transportation? Can’t live without a big yard? Figuring out which home features you can and can’t live without is as important as choosing a great neighborhood.

Working with the right real estate agent can help you navigate these questions and get you ready to make an offer.

» MORE: Things to know before buying a house

6. Submit your mortgage application

Do you have all of these documents ready?

[ ] W-2 forms from the past two years.

[ ] Pay stubs from the past 30 days.

[ ] Proof of other sources of income.

[ ] Federal tax returns from the past two years.

[ ] Recent bank statements.

[ ] Details on long-term debts like car or student loans.

[ ] ID and Social Security number.

7. Close on your home

It's the home stretch! Getting familiar with the standard closing documents ahead of time can make the closing process less nerve-wracking. By this point, you should also know what you’ll owe when you sit down to sign the loan paperwork so you won’t be caught off guard by closing costs — some of which may be negotiable.

  • Find out what closing costs to expect.

  • Learn which closing documents you’ll encounter.

  • Negotiate for the seller (or even the lender) to pay some of the closing costs or other prepaid items, such as taxes.

Congratulations, you’re a homeowner!

Steps to buying a house: Summary

  1. Check your credit score. The higher your score, the more loan options you'll have.

  2. Set a down payment goal. Track your savings and put down the most you can.

  3. Find the best mortgage for you. Consider loan options, calculate your monthly payment.

  4. Find the right mortgage lender. Shop multiple lenders; compare mortgage origination fees.

  5. Get preapproved for a mortgage — then shop. Now you’re considered a serious home buyer.

  6. Submit your mortgage application. Provide paperwork; respond quickly to requests for more info.

  7. Close on your home. Prepare for closing costs; negotiate what you can. Get the keys!