Your Roadmap to Buying a Home with Confidence

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and navigating the process can feel overwhelming. But with the right strategy, expert guidance, and a clear plan, you can find a home that fits your needs and budget—without unnecessary stress.

At Heather Stewart Realty, we help buyers make smart, informed decisions by breaking the process down into ten essential steps. Follow this checklist to stay on track and get the best possible outcome for your home purchase.

Step 1: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Before you start browsing homes, secure a mortgage pre-approval. This gives you a clear idea of your budget and shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer. A lender will assess your credit score, income, and financial history to determine what you qualify for.

✔ Gather documents (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)

✔ Compare lenders for the best rates and terms

✔ Get a pre-approval letter to strengthen your offers

Step 2: Define Your Must-Haves and Deal Breakers

Create a list of your essential features and preferences before house hunting. This will help you stay focused and avoid emotional decision-making.

✔ Location preferences (school district, commute, neighborhood)

✔ Home type (single-family, townhouse, condo)

✔ Non-negotiables (bedrooms, bathrooms, yard, garage)

Step 3: Work with a Local Real Estate Expert

Having a knowledgeable, local real estate agent by your side gives you access to off-market listings, expert negotiation, and strategic guidance throughout the process. Heather Stewart has helped countless buyers in Southwest Washington find their dream homes with ease.

✔ Get access to exclusive listings before they hit the market

✔ Receive expert guidance on market trends & pricing

✔ Benefit from strong negotiation skills to secure the best deal

👉 Schedule a Free Home Buying Consultation

Step 4: Start House Hunting with a Game Plan

Now comes the fun part—touring homes! But it’s easy to get caught up in emotions. Stay focused with these smart house-hunting tips:

✔ Attend open houses with a critical eye

✔ Take notes and pictures to compare homes later

✔ Look beyond staging—check for structural quality & potential repairs

Step 5: Make a Strong, Competitive Offer

Once you find “the one,” it’s time to act fast. Work with your agent to submit a competitive offer that aligns with market conditions.

✔ Analyze comparable sales (“comps”) in the area

✔ Include an earnest money deposit to show commitment

✔ Consider contingencies for inspection, appraisal, & financing

Step 6: Get a Home Inspection & Appraisal

Before finalizing the deal, a professional home inspection can uncover potential issues, and an appraisal ensures the home is worth the price.

✔ Hire a licensed inspector to check for structural issues, plumbing, electrical, & roofing

✔ The lender will order an appraisal to confirm the value

✔ Negotiate repairs or price adjustments if needed

Step 6: Get a Home Inspection & Appraisal

Before finalizing the deal, a professional home inspection can uncover potential issues, and an appraisal ensures the home is worth the price.

✔ Hire a licensed inspector to check for structural issues, plumbing, electrical, & roofing

✔ The lender will order an appraisal to confirm the value

✔ Negotiate repairs or price adjustments if needed

Step 8: Do a Final Walkthrough

Right before closing, do a final walkthrough of the property to ensure everything is in the expected condition.

✔ Confirm repairs (if any) were completed

✔ Check for any unexpected changes since inspection

✔ Test appliances, plumbing, and HVAC systems

Step 9: Close the Deal & Get the Keys!

Closing day is when you officially become a homeowner! You’ll sign the final paperwork, transfer funds, and receive the keys to your new home.

✔ Review all closing documents with your agent

✔ Pay closing costs and finalize your mortgage

✔ Celebrate—your new home is officially yours! 🎉

Step 10: Move In & Make It Yours!

The hard part is over, and now it’s time to settle in! Before unpacking, consider changing the locks, setting up utilities, and deep cleaning.

✔ Set up utilities, internet, and security

✔ Change locks and garage codes for safety

✔ Enjoy making your new house a home!