The Everything Guide to Buying Your First Home
In Buy a Home: Step-by-StepHow to find exactly what you want, and how to work with the experts who’ll help you get it.
Buy
New car smell has nothing on the feeling you get when unlocking your home’s front door for the first time. But the process of reaching that euphoric moment? Well, it can feel like you’re navigating an obstacle course designed by the producers of “Survivor.” So we’ve mapped out the steps to buying a house — and enlisted seasoned homeowners and real estate pros to share tips for finding the right home at the best possible price.
See All Steps to Buying a Home
Buying a home is complicated. Follow this complete guide to get the right advice each step of the way.
Buy a Home: Step-by-Step
In Buy a Home: Step-by-StepSmooth the road to your new home with the right support system.
Streaming Now: First-Time Buyer Season 5
Finding your first home is an exciting milestone— but it can be a daunting, emotional journey, especially in an uncertain market. Watch what happens as first-time buyers tackle real-life hurdles, navigate unexpected twists, and overcome the complexities of the market, all with the guidance of an agent who is a REALTOR®.
Find an Agent & View Homes
Emotions run high when house-hunting. You need an agent you trust to keep you sane.
What You Should Really Know About Browsing for Homes Online
In Buy a Home: Step-by-StepIt’s fun! It’s exciting! It’s important to take everything with a grain of salt!
Here’s How You’ll Know You’ve Found the Right Agent
In Buy a Home: Step-by-StepA great real estate agent is like an Oprah for living your best real estate life.
How to Be Showing Savvy
In Buy a Home: Step-by-StepGetting smart — about what to do, ask, and avoid — can move you ahead of the crowd.
Get Home Financing
Costly mistakes happen during this step. Be super-picky about who your lender is.
Your Stress-Free Guide to Shopping for Home Loans
In Buy a Home: Step-by-StepWith this super-simple breakdown of loan types, you’ll find the right mortgage.
Before You Choose a Mortgage Lender, Read These Tips
In Buy a Home: Step-by-StepSomeone out there wants to help save you time, stress, and money. Here’s how you find them.
Streaming Now: First-Time Buyer Season 5
Finding your first home is an exciting milestone— but it can be a daunting, emotional journey, especially in an uncertain market. Watch what happens as first-time buyers tackle real-life hurdles, navigate unexpected twists, and overcome the complexities of the market, all with the guidance of an agent who is a REALTOR®.
Make an Offer & Negotiate
This is the pins-and-needles stage. It’s when your agent can help the most.
How to Negotiate Your Best House Buy
In House Negotiating & ClosingKeep your emotions in check and your eyes on the goal, and you’ll pay less when purchasing a home.
Make an Offer Like a Boss
In Buy a Home: Step-by-StepThese 10 money- and time-saving steps can help you craft a winning bid.
What to Expect During a Home Inspection
In Buy a Home: Step-by-StepFrom finding an inspector to dealing with surprises — this is your guide to getting a house checked out.
Hey, Buyers: These Home Appraisal Tips Are for You
In Buy a Home: Step-by-StepWhat to expect, when to negotiate, and how to deal when things don’t go your way.
Prepare for Closing
Things are getting real! Look to your lender to guide you through the paperwork.
In Closing: How to Seal the Home Buying Deal
In Buy a Home: Step-by-StepSign that paperwork. Write those checks. Get those keys!
All in Buy
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Options for a Multigenerational Home to Fit Every Age
Multigenerational houses are popular, but you should consider pros and cons, options, and features before making a decision.
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Understanding Co-Op Housing: Is Cooperative Housing Right for You?
First-time home buyers have an option they may need to know more about: co-ops.
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Is That Fixer-Upper House Really Worth It?
Buying a fixer-upper home can be a gamble; here are ways to come out on top.
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7 Things You Wish You Knew Before Building New Construction
Apply new-construction tips from a homeowner who has experienced the process three times — and knows the ropes.
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7 Benefits of Buying a Home
In BuyInterest rates are only one factor when it comes to buying a house now.
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How to Move Past Student Debt — and Into a Home
In FinancingYou’ve got options, like repayment help from your employer and coaching from a mortgage broker.
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What You Need to Know About Buyer Love Letters to Home Sellers
In BuyThink twice before you write or receive a home love letter.
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How to Prevent (Home) Buyer’s Remorse
In BuyYou can make a successful offer on a home even in a competitive market — with the right information and help.
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How to Shop Around for a Mortgage Loan
In Buy & SellHome buyers who do mortgage loan shopping can avoid leaving money on the table.
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What to Expect from Virtual House Tours, Staging, and Showings
In Buy & SellVirtual steps in home buying can save time, but learn how to get the whole picture.
