A PRE-APPROVAL! Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is the first step of the home buying process. Getting a pre-approval letter from a lender lets you know what price point of home we should be looking at. It also gives us the opportunity to write an offer the day we see a house you fall in love with as a pre-approval letter (or proof of funds) will be required to submit with our offer.

From start (searching for your perfect home) to finish (closing), buying a home typically takes about 10 to 12 weeks. Once you’ve decided on your next home, we submit an offer and the offer is accepted, the average time to closing is 30 to 45 days (under normal market conditions). Though, some well-prepared home buyers, or buyers who pay cash have been known to close on homes in less time.

If you have equity built up in your current home that you’ll need to put towards your next home, then yes, it would be advisable to sell your house first. Occasionally, your pre-approval from the mortgage company will require selling before purchasing, that is known as a contingency.

Absolutely. Home inspections are an instrumental part of the home buying process that can save you a lot of time and money in the long run. No matter the age of the home, there can be costly troubles unknown to the average buyer. Problems with wiring, plumbing or structural issues may not be visible during a showing and you’ll want to get an expert opinion.