Homebuying guide: The basics of buying your dream home

by Jackie Davis 07/07/2024

Whether you're new to real estate or a seasoned expert, it can never hurt to consult a homebuying guide. While talking to real estate agents is a great starting point, there are other factors and tasks to consider that complement their support.

Here are some of the things to think about as you prepare for your homebuying journey:

Factors to consider before your home search

What should your goal be before you get started? Think of all the homeownership options. What are your reasons for buying a home? Maybe you want to buy a home for investment, personal independence, passive income opportunities or planning for your future.

These are just some reasons potential buyers think about buying a home. Understanding your goals for homeownership will help you make better choices.

The homebuying process

The basic steps in buying a home typically are:

  • Search for listings meeting your specific criteria and budget.
  • Make an offer on a home.
  • Negotiate purchase price if necessary.
  • Get a home inspection & appraisal.
  • Close on the home (pay all closing costs & complete all necessary paperwork).

Special conditions for first-time homebuyers

There are many forms of financing available to first-time homebuyers, such as those offered by the Federal Housing Administration and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. You may also want to find a real estate agent with deep understanding and experience in helping first-time homebuyers for expert tips and valuable guidance.

How much money should I save before buying a house?

What is your maximum budget for the down payment and mortgage loan? Pre-approval from a mortgage lender is needed for an accurate assessment of your financial situation and gives you a competitive edge as a buyer.

Are you ready to get started on your journey to homeownership? Keep these basics in mind as guidelines for making the best decision and finding your dream home.

About the Author
Author

Jackie Davis

Welcome to Jackie Davis and Company. If you have navigated this far, we thank you and would like to share how we differ from other teams and agents. We work tirelessly and are committed to providing 100% customer satisfaction. We recognize, listen, value, and appreciate your goals as you move towards listing or selling your home. As Listing Agents we continuously integrate new and advanced technology to promote your biggest asset. Our strong negotiation skills are invaluable for getting you the best price for your home. As the Buyer's Agent we pride ourselves on being fully educated in our local markets. While focusing on integrity and honesty we will provide you with the highest level of professionalism and analysis. We are proud that this hard work has earned us recognition as top 1% both company and state wide in the industry. Achievements * 1st Quarter 2017 Leading Sales in Fairfield * 2017 February Leading Sales Team * 2017 March Leading Sales Team * Chairman's Elite representing the Top 1% Agent at William Raveis Nationwide & Fairfield County * Over $45 million Listed & Sold in 2016 * Over $30 million Listed & Sold in 2015 * 99% List to Sales Ratio (higher than market average) * 75 Average Days on Market (less than market average) * Jackie Davis Promoted to Sales Vice President 2016 * Raveis Award of Excellence every year * Exceptional Customer Service Award every year * Top Units Sold Team October 2016 * Top Customer Service October 2016 * Top Mortgage Support September 2016 * Top Selling Team January 2016 * Top Mortgage Support August 2015 * Top Selling Team Feb 2014 * Top Producing Team Jan 2014 * Top Selling Team Dec 2013 * Top Selling Team Nov 2013 * Top Producing Team Nov 2013 Professional Specialty Innovative Marketing and Technology equals proven sales. Our team of licensed professionals is ready to serve. We handle: Sellers & Buyers Exceptional Properties Investors Waterfront & Beach Area Homes Country & Equestrian Properties New Construction & Land Relocation Professional Association National Association of Realtors Connecticut Association of Realtors Greater Fairfield Board of Realtors Consolidated Multiple Listing Service Community Involvement PTA committee member for past 14 years from elementary through high school PTA Board Member for 4 years Shoff Darby Advisory Scholarship Board member past 5 years Committee member for Cancer Care of Norwalk past 10 years Volunteer Habitat for Humanity Operation Hope coordinator for elementary and middle schools, last 3 years Volunteer for a variety of town sports teams, that my daughters participate in The County Assemblies Board Member The b-Cause Foundation Board Member- a non-profit organization whose mission is to educate children to recognize neighbors in need in our local community. Wakeman Boys & Girls Club- Fundraising Committee Member Committee Member for Cancer Couch Fundraiser the Cancer Beat 2016 Near and Far Aid Volunteer Education BA from Merrimack College Personal Fairfield resident for 39 years Currently reside in Fairfield Beach Area Married 27 years Four daughters currently in & have graduated Fairfield Public School system Areas Covered Fairfield Southport Westport Weston Norwalk Trumbull Easton Stratford Shelton Milford Stamford Bridgeport