Buying a home is one of the most exciting milestones in life—but it can also feel a little overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. With so many moving parts, decisions to make, and deadlines to meet, it’s easy to get lost in the process. That’s where the Kenmore Team comes in.
Our goal is to make buying a home in the Tri-Cities as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re looking for your very first house or upgrading to your forever home, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process—from the moment you decide to buy to the day you get the keys in your hand.
Let’s dive into the 10 essential steps to buying a house.
Step 1: Determine Your Budget
Before you start scrolling through listings or touring homes, it’s important to know what you can realistically afford. Your budget should reflect your current income, monthly expenses, debts, and any savings you’ve set aside for a down payment.
Start by using an online mortgage calculator to get a rough estimate of your price range. Most lenders recommend that your total housing costs (including mortgage, taxes, insurance, and HOA fees, if applicable) not exceed 28% of your gross monthly income.
Also, factor in additional upfront costs like:
- Down payment (typically 3%–20% of the home price)
- Closing costs (2%–5% of the purchase price)
- Home inspections and appraisals
- Moving expenses
Taking the time to establish a realistic budget will help you focus on homes you can afford and avoid falling in love with properties outside your price range.
Step 2: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Once you’ve defined your budget, the next step is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This is more than just a quick estimate—it’s a formal letter from a lender stating how much they’re willing to loan you, based on your credit score, income, debt, and financial history.
A pre-approval strengthens your position as a buyer because:
- It shows sellers you’re serious and financially qualified.
- It gives you a clear understanding of your price range.
- It allows you to move faster when you find the right home.
To get pre-approved, you’ll typically need to provide:
- Proof of income (pay stubs, W-2s, tax returns)
- Credit information
- Employment history
- Bank statements and information on debts
The Kenmore Team works closely with trusted local lenders and can connect you with a mortgage expert to guide you through this step with confidence.
Step 3: Find the Right Real Estate Agent
Having the right real estate agent on your side can make all the difference—especially in a competitive market like the Tri-Cities. A knowledgeable local agent will not only help you find homes that fit your criteria but also advocate for your best interests every step of the way.
When you work with the Kenmore Team, you get:
- Expert guidance on neighborhoods, pricing trends, and schools
- Access to new listings as soon as they hit the market
- Skilled negotiation support to help you secure the best deal
- A streamlined process from search to closing
Whether you’re buying your first home or your fifth, we’re here to make the process easier and more rewarding.
Step 4: Start House Hunting
Now the fun really begins! With your pre-approval in hand and your agent by your side, it’s time to start looking at homes that match your goals, lifestyle, and budget.
Before you hit the road (or the listing sites), it helps to make a list of:
- Must-haves: Number of bedrooms, garage, fenced yard, school district, etc.
- Nice-to-haves: Bonus room, updated kitchen, large backyard, etc.
- Deal-breakers: Location, commute time, layout preferences
As you view homes—either in person or virtually—take notes and photos to help you remember what you liked and didn’t like. Don’t be surprised if your preferences evolve as you tour more homes!
Kenmore Tip: Be open-minded. Sometimes a home that checks all the boxes on paper doesn’t feel quite right in person—and sometimes a home you didn’t expect to love ends up being “the one.”
Step 5: Make an Offer
When you find a home you love, your agent will help you craft a competitive offer based on market conditions, comparable sales, and your budget. This is where having an experienced negotiator in your corner truly pays off.
Your offer will typically include:
- The proposed purchase price
- Contingencies (such as financing, inspection, or appraisal)
- Desired closing date
- Earnest money deposit (a sign of good faith)
Once your offer is submitted, the seller may accept it, reject it, or come back with a counteroffer. Your agent will guide you through this back-and-forth and help you reach an agreement that works for everyone.
Step 6: Schedule a Home Inspection
Once your offer is accepted, the next critical step is scheduling a home inspection. This gives you an in-depth look at the condition of the property before moving forward with the purchase.
A licensed home inspector will evaluate the home’s major systems and structures, including:
- Roof and foundation
- Electrical and plumbing systems
- HVAC and water heater
- Appliances, windows, and insulation
After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any issues. Depending on the findings, you can:
- Request repairs or credits from the seller
- Re-negotiate the purchase price
- Proceed as-is
- Or, if necessary, walk away if the problems are too severe
Kenmore Tip: Even brand-new homes for sale can have issues. A home inspection is your best protection against unexpected surprises down the road.
Step 7: Get a Home Appraisal
If you’re using a mortgage to buy the home, your lender will require a home appraisal to ensure the property is worth the purchase price. An independent appraiser will assess the home’s value based on its condition, location, and recent comparable sales.
Here’s why the appraisal matters:
- It protects both you and your lender from overpaying
- If the home appraises at or above the offer price, you’re good to go
- If it comes in lower than expected, you may need to renegotiate the price or cover the difference out of pocket
Your Kenmore Team agent will help guide you through any issues that arise and keep the deal on track.
Step 8: Secure Your Financing
Once the inspection and appraisal are complete, your mortgage lender will move your application into final underwriting. During this phase, they’ll verify your financial documents again and ensure all loan conditions are met.
To keep things moving smoothly:
- Respond quickly to any lender requests
- Avoid large purchases or opening new credit accounts
- Don’t change jobs or move money around without consulting your lender
Once the underwriter gives the all-clear, your loan will receive final approval—bringing you one step closer to closing day.
Kenmore Tip: Stay in close contact with your lender and agent during this phase to avoid delays and keep your timeline on track.
Step 9: Final Walkthrough
A day or two before closing, you’ll have the opportunity to do a final walkthrough of the home. This is your chance to ensure that:
- The property is in the same condition as when you made the offer
- Any agreed-upon repairs have been completed
- Fixtures and appliances included in the sale are still in place
- There’s no new damage or unexpected issues
Bring a copy of your contract and inspection report so you can double-check the details. If anything isn’t right, your agent will help address the issue before closing.
Kenmore Tip: Take your time during the walkthrough. It’s the last opportunity to flag concerns before you officially take ownership.
Step 10: Close on Your New Home
Closing day is the finish line—and the moment you’ve been working toward. At the closing appointment, you’ll:
- Sign all final paperwork, including your loan documents
- Pay your closing costs and remaining down payment
- Receive confirmation that the title has been transferred
Once everything is signed and funds have been disbursed, you’ll receive the keys to your new home. Congratulations—you’re officially a homeowner!
Kenmore Tip: Make sure your driver’s license or ID is up to date, and bring certified funds (if needed) for closing costs to avoid any last-minute delays.
Conclusion
Buying a home is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. With the right preparation and a trusted real estate team by your side, you can navigate the process with confidence and ease.
From setting your budget to getting the keys, these 10 steps will guide you through every stage of your homebuying journey. And when you’re ready to start, the Kenmore Team is here to help with expert advice, local knowledge, and personalized support.
Ready to buy a home in the Tri-Cities area? Contact us today to get started—or explore our current listings.