Home buying process

Learn what's in store at every stage of the home buying process

Realtor and client hugging in front of home.

Featured resources

Home buying checklist for first-time home buyers

Starting the process of buying your first home? Use our extensive first-time home buyer checklist to help you prepare and ensure you don't miss a step.

How to find open houses near you: 6 tips

Ready to find your next home, but not sure where to start? Check out our guide to finding open houses in your area, plus tips on how to prepare for them.

Featured resources

A large brick house surrounded by tall trees.

10-minute read

Checklist for buying your first house

The process of buying a home can be complicated, especially for first-time buyers. Make it simpler with this house buying checklist.

A service repairman, possibly indicating home maintenance or repair services.

10-minute read

What is a reasonable repair request to ask for after a home inspection?

Are you thinking about buying a home? Learn what is a reasonable repair request you can ask for after a home inspection and how to negotiate with the seller.

A professional home inspector guiding a homeowner through a thorough inspection of their property.

5-minute read

Your guide to blue tape walk-throughs

The blue tape walk-through of your newly constructed home is an important step before you move in. Learn more about what it entails and what to check for.

An account advisor showing papers to a client, indicating a professional interaction or financial consultation.

7-minute read

How often do contingent offers fall through? What you should know

Learn about the different types of contingencies in real estate contracts and explore the common reasons these deals sometimes don’t make it to closing.

A man looking at a contract or document, potentially in a business or legal context.

6-minute read

Breaking a lease to buy a house: Can (and should) you do it?

Breaking a lease to buy a house can be tricky. Learn how to get out of a lease, how much it might cost you, the pros and cons, and weigh the alternatives.

Image showing a young businesswoman contemplating while sitting in front of an open laptop.

5-minute read

What credit score do mortgage lenders use?

Mortgage lenders use several credit scores to qualify borrowers and determine the interest rate they offer. Learn more before you start the home buying journey.