Guide
First-Time Buyer Guide
Seven steps from “maybe” to keys in your hand.
1. Get Pre-Approved
Before you look at a single house, talk to a lender. A pre-approval letter tells you what you can actually afford and tells sellers you’re serious. Shop around. Rates and fees vary more than people think. If you want a halal-compliant option, ask me first; not every lender funds in Ohio.
2. Figure Out What You’re Buying
Single-family? Condo? Townhouse? Each comes with different costs and rules. HOAs are a real monthly expense. Condos can have lending quirks. Sit down and write out what you actually need vs. what you want. There’s a difference, and it matters.
3. Pick an Agent
You don’t pay the buyer’s agent in most transactions, the seller does. So work with someone you trust. Ask how many first-time buyers they’ve closed with, how they communicate, and what happens when something goes wrong. That last question matters most.
4. Tour Homes
Online photos lie. Always tour in person if you can. Pay attention to the boring stuff: water pressure, basement smell, what the street feels like at 9pm. The house will sell itself. Your job is to look past the staging.
5. Make an Offer
Offer price isn’t the only number. Earnest money, contingencies, closing date, repair credits. All of it is negotiable. Your agent should walk you through trade-offs, not just push you to bid higher.
6. Inspection & Appraisal
Hire a real inspector. Read the report. Decide what’s a dealbreaker vs. what’s just normal house stuff. The appraisal protects the lender (and you) from overpaying. If it comes in low, you have options. Don’t panic.
7. Close
Closing is paperwork, money, and keys. Review the closing disclosure 3 days before. Bring ID. Bring patience. After signing, the home is yours.