What You Need to Know Before You Start Home Shopping

Buying your first home is one of life’s biggest milestones. It’s exciting, rewarding, and—let’s be real—a little overwhelming. From figuring out where to start, to navigating credit, budgets, and paperwork, the homebuying journey can feel like a maze.

That’s why I’ve put together this step-by-step roadmap for first-time homebuyers. Think of it as your guide to everything you need to know before you start. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have a clear picture of what to expect and how to move forward with confidence.

Get Clear on Your “Why”

Before you start scrolling through listings or touring open houses, pause and ask yourself: Why do I want to buy a home?

To stop renting and start building equity?
To provide stability for your family?
To invest in your future?

Your “why” matters because buying a home isn’t just a financial decision, it’s an emotional one. When things get stressful (and trust me, they will), your why keeps you grounded and focused.

Check Your Credit Score

Your credit score is like your financial reputation. Lenders use it to decide whether you qualify for a mortgage and what interest rate you’ll get.

Here’s how to prepare:

Pull your free credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com.
Review it carefully and dispute any errors.
Pay down credit card balances and avoid new debt before applying.

💡 Pro Tip: While many lenders look for a score of 620 or higher, there are programs available for buyers with lower scores. Don’t assume you’re out of the running—just know where you stand.

Budget and Save

Money is one of the biggest roadblocks for first-time buyers. The truth is, you’ll need cash upfront not just for the down payment, but for closing costs and emergencies too.

Here’s what to budget for:

Down Payment: Depending on your loan, this can be as low as 3%.
Closing Costs: Typically 2–5% of the purchase price.
Emergency Fund: Because homeownership comes with surprises, like leaky roofs and broken water heaters.

Example: On a $250,000 home, a 3% down payment is $7,500. Add about $5,000 for closing costs, and you’ll need $12,500 before move-in.

The good news? There are down payment assistance programs, grants, and even seller contributions that can help lower these costs.

Get Pre-Approved

Pre-approval is your golden ticket to serious house hunting. Unlike pre-qualification (which is just a rough estimate), pre-approval means a lender has reviewed your financials and given you a letter stating how much you can borrow.

Why it matters:

You’ll know your budget.
Sellers will take your offer seriously.
You’ll avoid falling in love with a home outside your price range.

Think of pre-approval as your “green light” to shop.

Find the Right Real Estate Agent

Your real estate agent is more than just someone who shows homes, they’re your advisor, negotiator, and advocate.

Look for an agent who:

Has experience working with first-time buyers.
Explains the process clearly.
Communicates in a way that works for you.

Don’t be afraid to interview a few agents. The right fit will make the journey smoother and less stressful.

House Hunt the Smart Way

Here’s where the fun begins! But before you fall in love with granite countertops, remember to think long-term.

Ask yourself:

Is the location right for my lifestyle?
How long do I plan to live here?
What are the monthly costs beyond the mortgage (insurance, taxes, utilities)?

Make a list of your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and deal-breakers. And remember your first home doesn’t have to be your forever home.

Making an Offer and Closing the Deal

When you find “the one,” your agent will guide you through making an offer. This includes the price, but also important protections like inspection and financing contingencies.

Once your offer is accepted, you’ll:

Schedule a home inspection.
Work with your lender to finalize the loan.
Go through underwriting.
Sign paperwork at closing and finally, get your keys!

Yes, it’s a lot of steps and signatures, but every one brings you closer to your new front door.

Becoming a homeowner for the first time can feel intimidating, but with the right roadmap, it’s absolutely doable. By clarifying your why, preparing your finances, getting pre-approved, and working with the right professionals, you’ll set yourself up for success.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re ready to start your homebuying journey, I’d love to help guide you. Reach out today for a free consultation, and let’s talk about your goals, budget, and the best path to owning your first home.

FTC Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored video or article. All opinions are genuinely my own. This post also contains affiliate links and I earn a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. It does not cost you any extra. Thank you for your continued support to keep the Bri Callis Blog going!