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Eight steps from budgeting to closing day, with the questions worth asking your agent at each one.
A listing price tells you very little about what a home costs to live in. Taxes, insurance, association fees and mortgage interest all move your monthly payment, and they move it differently in every city. Begin by deciding what monthly total feels comfortable, then work backward.
A good agent will ask about your savings, your timeline and the life you are planning around the house before they open a single listing.
A pre-approval turns a guess into a budget and makes your offers stronger. Talk to at least three lenders: a large bank, a local credit union and a mortgage broker. Compare the loan estimate line by line, because rates are only part of the story.
After your third showing, every kitchen starts to blur together. Write down what matters most (commute, light, noise, space for a home office) and score each home the same evening. Ask your agent which neighborhood details a listing will not tell you, such as where the bus runs or when the street sweeper comes.
Your agent will help you set an offer price, decide which contingencies to keep and read the inspection report with you. Expect a few weeks between accepted offer and closing, filled with appraisal, insurance quotes and a final walkthrough. Read your closing disclosure at least a few days early and ask about anything unfamiliar.
Plan for closing costs, moving expenses and a repair reserve. Many buyers aim for a few months of housing costs set aside after closing.
No rule requires one, but an agent who knows your market can save money and stress, especially during inspection and negotiation.