First-Time Homebuyer Checklist

Check your credit score and review your credit report for errors

💡 You can get a free report at AnnualCreditReport.com

Calculate your monthly budget and determine what you can comfortably afford

💡 Don't forget property taxes, insurance, and maintenance

Start saving for your down payment and closing costs

💡 Even 3-5% of the purchase price is a great start

Pay down existing debts to improve your debt-to-income ratio

💡 Focus on credit cards and high-interest loans first

Avoid opening new credit accounts or making large purchases

💡 New debt can lower your score and affect qualification

Gather your financial documents (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)

💡 Having these ready speeds up pre-approval significantly

Connect with a loan officer (that's me!) for an initial consultation

💡 This conversation is free and helps you understand your options

Submit your pre-approval application and documents

💡 Most pre-approvals are completed within 24 hours

Review your pre-approval letter and understand your buying power

💡 I'll explain everything in plain English — no jargon

Research down payment assistance programs you may qualify for

💡 Texas has several programs for first-time buyers

Find a Realtor you trust to help you search for homes

💡 Ask me for recommendations if you need one

Define your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves

💡 Location, size, school district, commute — prioritize what matters most

Tour homes and attend open houses

💡 Take photos and notes — homes can start to blur together

Research neighborhoods, schools, and commute times

💡 Visit at different times of day to get a full picture

When you find the right home, work with your Realtor to make an offer

💡 Your pre-approval letter strengthens your offer

Negotiate terms and get your offer accepted

💡 I'm available to help with any financing questions during negotiations

Lock in your interest rate

💡 I'll advise you on the best timing for a rate lock

Complete the home inspection

💡 Don't skip this — it can reveal issues that affect your decision

Home appraisal is ordered and completed

💡 The lender needs this to confirm the home's value

Provide any additional documents requested during underwriting

💡 Respond quickly to keep things on schedule

Review your Closing Disclosure (at least 3 days before closing)

💡 This shows your final loan terms and costs — I'll review it with you

Do a final walk-through of the property

💡 Make sure everything is as expected before signing

Sign your closing documents and get your keys! 🏡

💡 Congratulations — you're a homeowner!