How do you go about purchasing your first home? What do you do first? This checklist will help you get things in order.

1. Get educated
Participating in a home buying class or online study is a valuable first step in home ownership. Most training offers a Certificate of Completion which is required for some loan programs and downpayment assistance.

2. Get pre-approved for a mortgage loan
Determine a realistic budget for yourself before you buy. Meet with your lender for a free consultation to determine how much home you can afford, review your credit, and discuss loan options. Obtain a pre-approval certificate to submit with your offer.

3. Find a real estate agent
If you are a first-time buyer, having a real estate agent’s help is beneficial. A good agent can represent your interests in the home buying process, help narrow your property search, and guide you through the paperwork necessary to complete the sale.

4. Go house hunting
Determine your wants versus needs, and find a home that fits your budget.

5. Make an offer
An offer-to-purchase is a legal and binding contract. Be sure you understand all of the terms and conditions.

6. Home inspection
This critical step assures that the home you are buying is safe and sound, and all the mechanicals are in good working order. It will help you avoid costly, unforeseen repairs in the future.

7. Obtain a loan commitment
It’s time to make the final decision on a loan program and lock your rate. Your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the value of the home. Also, if you are eligible for down payment assistance, your lender will obtain these approvals on your behalf. The commitment letter will remove the financing contingency in your offer to purchase.

8. Prepare for closing
It’s time to review your final loan commitment, line up some homeowner’s insurance, and start packing.

9. Move in!
Finally, you get to enjoy your new home, and relax. Congratulations!