HomeRise planning guide
First-Time Home Buyer Checklist
A practical overview of the major steps from preparation through closing.
Before you tour homes
- Clarify your preferred locations and commute needs.
- List must-haves, nice-to-haves, and deal breakers.
- Speak with a qualified lender about budget, cash needs, and loan options.
- Avoid major credit or employment changes without checking with your lender.
- Choose a practical monthly payment range—not only a maximum approval amount.
During the search
- Compare layout, condition, lot, utilities, restrictions, and location.
- Look past décor and note items that may affect cost or maintenance.
- Ask for available property disclosures and relevant documents.
- Keep notes so homes do not blend together.
- Discuss questions before deciding whether to offer.
When making an offer
- Review price, financing, earnest money, closing date, and included items.
- Understand inspection, appraisal, financing, title, and other contingencies.
- Consider the strength and risk of each term—not just price.
- Confirm deadlines and how notices must be delivered.
- Do not rely on verbal promises that are not in the written agreement.
After acceptance
- Deposit earnest money as directed and on time.
- Schedule inspections within the contract period.
- Continue lender requests promptly.
- Review appraisal and title updates.
- Arrange insurance, utilities, funds, and identification for closing.
- Complete the final walk-through and review closing documents.