It still hasn't really hit me that we're homeowners. I can't believe someone gave us keys to a whole building haha!
While everyone's home buying process is very different please note this is based of OUR process. Here are some things that everyone needs to get started:
1. Get pre-qualified for a mortgage loan. You can go to a bank or mortgage lender for this. They will ask for paystubs and taxes (for self employees) from the past two years to find out how much you qualify for.
2. Find a realtor. We found ours randomly while grocery shopping! Rob met her in the wine aisle haha. But I reached out to friends and social media for realtor suggestions before we found ours and they were very helpful so I would definitely ask around first before going in blindly.
3. Start looking at homes! Your realtor will send you a list with homes currently on the market and ones that are coming soon. If you see something you like, set up a time to look at it asap. Homes will sell the same day they are listed.
You will look at a lot of homes and you will feel defeated and discouraged. Don't let that get to you. We cried, yelled and got mad, it'll happen. But you will find one that speaks to you!
4. After you find a home you like, talk with your realtor to make sure it's a good home worth the price then put in your offer! We ran into the issue of cash over appraisal which basically if the home doesn't appraise for what it's listed, you might have to pay more then your down payment. I would definitely talk that over with your realtor. This was news to us when we started looking.
Keep in mind, your offer might get rejected multiple times on multiple houses. Again, don't let that keep you from looking! We lost a house that I absolutely fell in love with and I was pretty upset. But then we found the home we're in and I love it so much!
5. After your offer is accepted, you will need to get an inspector and the appraisal (both do cost extra) We had to pay something called "Earnest" money which goes toward closing costs. I'm not 100% sure if this is the case for all homes so I would ask your realtor about it!
6. After your inspection and appraisal come back all good, you'll do a final walk through. Then sign your life away and wait for the closing date! (We had no issues with out inspection or appraisal but I know that might not be the cause for everyone.)
I've heard some friends say they looked for a home for over a year and some have said they got the first house they put an offer in. So keep in mind that it will be based off qualified amount, location, home type, and finances.
I wish you luck in finding your new home! Remember to be patient, it will happen! For all pur home renovations, head to my Instagram - @golden_aimeee
xoxox, Aimee