Where To Start As A Buyer

Buying a home is an exciting journey, but it can feel overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. Here's a basic overview of the home-buying process to help guide you:

Step 1: Define Your Goals & Budget

Before anything else, determine what you’re looking for in a home. Consider factors like location, home size, and amenities. Equally important is knowing your budget. This is where mortgage pre-approval comes in, allowing you to know exactly how much home you can afford.

Step 2: Get a Mortgage Pre-Approval

Before you begin viewing properties, it’s crucial to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This ensures you know your buying power, allows you to act quickly in a competitive market, and signals to sellers that you're serious. While this is just an overview, you can find more details on why pre-approval is essential on our dedicated Mortgage Pre-Approval page.

Step 3: Schedule a Buyer Consultation

The next important step is to meet with a Realtor for a buyer consultation. This is a critical meeting where we discuss your needs, wants, budget, and timeline in more detail. It also allows you to learn about the current market and get expert advice on the buying process. Finally, we will review all agency-related documents and contracts, including the Buyer Representation Agreement and any related Designated Representation Agreements. Please note that you need to book this consultation before a Realtor can start working for you or investing their time into your search. To book your buyer consultation meeting, use the scheduler page here or call Nick directly.

Step 4: Begin Your Home Search

Once the consultation is completed and you've been pre-approved, your Realtor will begin the home search process. You'll receive listings that match your criteria, and your Realtor will help schedule showings, answer questions, and guide you through each property. To conduct a general search, click here. To learn how to use "The Portal" system once your Realtor sets you up, watch this video here.

Step 5: Make an Offer

When you find the right home, your Realtor will help you submit a competitive offer and negotiate the best terms. To learn more about this process, click here.

Step 6: Fulfilling Your Conditions

Once your offer is accepted, it’s time to work on fulfilling any conditions included in your offer. Common conditions might include obtaining final mortgage approval, home inspections, or a review of the property’s status certificate (for condos). Your Realtor will guide you through each condition to ensure everything is completed on time and in order.

Step 7: Closing

Once all conditions are met and the necessary paperwork is signed, you'll move into the final stages, including working with a lawyer to close the transaction and officially take ownership of your new home. To learn more about the closing process, click here.

By following these steps and scheduling a consultation with your Realtor first, you’re setting yourself up for a smooth, successful home-buying experience.

Where To Start As A Buyer