• Meet with a loan officer; by sharing income and other financial information, you will know the price range for which you are qualified
• Get Pre-qualified · Obtain a pre-approval letter
• Obtain a "Truth in Lending" letter explaining the costs of borrowing money
• Learn about the many loans available to buyers in today's market
• Learn about closing costs

2. Begin viewing homes with your REALTOR

• When possible, all decision -makers should visit the various homes
• Always be candid with your REALTOR-it will help them understand your particular needs and desires and enable them to select homes you'll want to see

3. Prepare the offer

• Your REALTOR will provide you all forms and pertinent data in order to assist you in making an informed decision
• Your REALTOR will go through the contract with you and complete your offer
• Negotiations will proceed until both buyer and seller agree on all terms and sign
• All documents will be sent to the title company where a file will be opened, and title commitment and property tax information ordered

4. Make your loan application

• Give your loan officer a copy of the contract and apply for the loan

5. Inspect the property

• Select an inspector and arrange for both a general inspection and wood-destroying insect inspection
• Your REALTOR also can provide information about other environmental assessments

6. Appraisal and survey of property

• The lender and title company will make arrangements for the property appraisal and survey
• Buyer will be provided a copy of the Title Commitment Letter
• Buyer will make arrangements for homeowner's (hazard) insurance, and arrange for the insurance agent to talk with the closing officer at the title company

7. Seller's closing is also arranged

• Buyer received a copy of the closing statement for review prior to closing
• Buyer does a final walk-through inspection of the property
• The REALTOR arranges a closing date and time with the buyer and title company. Seller's closing is also arranged
• Buyer brings a cashiers check for all closing costs and the balance of the down payment

8. After the closing

• Documents are sent to the buyer's loan company for approval and funds are disbursed
• The title company receives and funds all money from the loan company
• Payment of any accrued expenses in connection with the closing are due including taxes, attorney's fees, professional real estate fees and title company fees
• Legal documents will be recorded in the office of the county clerk and mailed to the buyer
• Title company prepares and issues the title policy, and sends it to the loan company and new home owner