The Buyer Process
Step 1: Choose Your Realtor
Partner with an experienced agent who knows your market inside and out (hi 👋). They’ll guide you through neighborhoods, listings, and negotiations from start to finish. They will help you through all the following steps.
Step 2: Get Pre-Approved
Start by connecting with a trusted lender to learn what you can afford and secure a pre-approval letter. This shows sellers you’re serious and helps you set a clear budget. It will also be used when writing offers. I have several recommendations for you!
Step 3: Define Your Must-Haves
Make a list of your top priorities—location, size, yard, schools, commute, or amenities. Knowing your non-negotiables keeps your search focused.
Step 4: Start the Home Search
Tour homes online and in person to get a feel for what’s out there. I can help you spot hidden gems, off-market opportunities, and compare value. I will set you up on Zenlist, so you can save properties easily, and see our tour route when we go see homes.
Step 5: Make an Offer
Once you find “the one,” I will help you structure a strong offer—based on local comps, current market conditions, and your comfort zone. I will also do research on the home for any red flags. We will work together to figure out terms on the contract, option and earnest amount, close date, ect.
Step 6: Offer Accepted
Once the seller accepts, you’ll officially go “under contract.” You have three days to pay the option and earnest amount (typically .1% and 1%)! You will now be in the option period, where you have time to do step 7 without losing your earnest money. No matter what, you will not get the option amount back. This is for the sellers to take it off the market.
Step 7: Schedule an Inspection
Hire a licensed home inspector to evaluate the property’s condition. If issues pop up, I will help you negotiate repairs or credits. You can also bring in contractors for quotes on repairs or upgrades you want to see the cost on.
Step 8: Finalize Option Period
Once you finalize terms you will complete the option period and be “in escrow.” If you back out now for any reasons not listed on the contract you will lose your earnest money.
Step 9: Finalize Documents
You now will work with the title company and lender to get required documents in. You will also confirm your homeowners insurance.
Step 10: Prep for Closing
Work on setting up new utilities. Prepare for closing by getting a cashiers check or setting up wire for closing funds. We will do final walk through a few days before closing to make sure house had items fixed and is in good the condition we expect.
Step 11: Closing Day
You’ll sign all final paperwork, pay your down payment and closing costs, and officially become a homeowner. You will get the keys after the loan officially funds, meaning title has received funds from the lender. Make sure not to schedule a move on this day, as sometimes closing can be delayed a day or two.
Click “Get in Touch” for a consultation, or for more details information fill out form below!
Step 12: Post Closing
Welcome home! Change your address officially! Start making the space your own. Make sure to appy for homestead (see resource tab) once you have updated your address! Leave your agent and lender a review if able.
Then take a moment to enjoy what you’ve accomplished!
Amanda White ATX | Christie's International Real Estate
Let's Find Your Home
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