1.
Start With a Clear Vision of the Home You Want
Before
entering the housing market, define what you are looking for. Think about where
you want to live, the type of home that fits your lifestyle, your price range,
and how many people will live in the home. Most first-time buyers start with
only a general idea, and that is completely normal. House hunting is a
refining process that turns an initial dream into a vivid reality.
Working
with a real estate agent early is highly beneficial. An experienced
agent can help you clarify the essential features of your ideal home and guide
you toward properties that match your needs. This often involves touring
potential homes, comparing layouts and neighborhoods, and understanding what
truly fits your lifestyle. Buying a home is a complex journey, and a trusted
agent can connect you with all the resources you may need, from mortgage
lenders and inspectors to contractors, home insurance, warranties, escrow,
title, and appraisal services.
2.
Get Your Mortgage Pre-Approval
Even
if you have a rough idea of your budget, your true purchasing power comes from
obtaining a mortgage pre-approval. Lenders, whether banks or mortgage
companies, review your income, W-2s, 1099s, bank statements, and credit score
to provide verified proof of funds. Always request a pre-approval letter,
not just a pre-qualification, because it is necessary when submitting an offer.
Pre-approval letters are usually valid for 90 days and can be updated easily.
Having
a strong pre-approval allows you to act quickly when you find a home you love
and submit a competitive offer. Comparing pre-approvals from different lenders
helps you find the best terms for your situation. Some sellers prefer
conventional loans, while others accept FHA or VA loans. Different loan types
also have varying closing timelines, and your agent will guide you through
these details. Buying your ideal home is both an investigation and an art; when
a home you love is in high demand, a good agent will help you navigate the
competition and advocate for you.
3.
Commit to a Real Estate Agent You Trust
When
you first enter the housing market, you may encounter agents through open
houses, community events, online platforms, or brokerage offices. Interviewing
two to three agents helps you find someone you feel comfortable with and can
trust. Real estate laws require disclosure of agency relationships before
submitting an offer, and being transparent helps build mutual trust.
When
you commit to an agent, your agent commits to you with diligence, loyalty, and
professional care. Steps one through three—clarifying your vision, securing
pre-approval, and choosing an agent—often happen simultaneously.
4.
Search for Homes, Submit Offers, and Close
With
a trusted agent, you begin touring homes and evaluating options. Most agents
are REALTORS®, meaning they follow a strict Code of Ethics and have
access to MLS listings, professional tools, and ongoing education to provide
the best service. When you find a home you love, your agent will help you craft
a strong offer, including price, closing timeline, contingencies, and terms
that appeal to the seller. Your agent will communicate with the listing agent
to understand the seller’s priorities and position your offer competitively.
Once
your offer is accepted, you enter escrow, which typically lasts 20 to 60
days depending on the loan type and circumstances. During escrow, essential
steps include the home inspection, loan underwriting, appraisal, title review,
and securing homeowners insurance. Your agent and brokerage team guide you
through all paperwork and due diligence. Finally, after weeks or months of
effort, your homeownership dream becomes reality. You complete a final
walkthrough, sign closing documents, funds are transferred and recorded, and
you receive the keys to your new home. Congratulations! You are officially a
homeowner.
About
Me
My
name is Helen Xiong, and I am a Realtor® with Coldwell Banker George
Realty in Los Angeles. I am dedicated to helping people achieve
homeownership and build a better life. As the saying goes, everything begins
with land. I am here to help you with your real estate needs, whether you are
buying, selling, or simply learning about the housing market.
Learn more about me at: cmyhousesolutions.com
Want to tour a home you’re interested in? Reach out to me on Realtor.com.
Book an insight consultation with me at: calendly.com/min_xiong
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