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Steps to Buying a House: A 10-Step Guide

Quick answer

The main steps to buying a house are: check your finances and credit, set a budget, get pre-approved, find a real estate agent, shop for homes, make an offer, get an inspection, complete the appraisal and underwriting, do a final walkthrough, and close. From pre-approval to keys typically takes two to four months.

By Purchase Mortgage Loan Editorial Team Checked against official sources per our editorial standardsLast updated

Step by step

  1. 1

    Review your finances

    Check credit, savings and monthly debts to understand your starting point.

  2. 2

    Set a budget

    Use an affordability calculator and decide on a comfortable monthly payment.

  3. 3

    Get pre-approved

    Get a pre-approval letter so you know your price range and sellers take you seriously.

  4. 4

    Choose an agent

    Interview buyer's agents and understand how they're compensated.

  5. 5

    Shop for homes

    Tour homes, compare neighborhoods and weigh commute, schools and resale.

  6. 6

    Make an offer

    Work with your agent on price, earnest money and contingencies.

  7. 7

    Inspect the home

    Hire a licensed inspector and negotiate repairs or credits.

  8. 8

    Appraisal and underwriting

    The lender orders an appraisal and verifies everything for final approval.

  9. 9

    Final walkthrough

    Confirm the home's condition and agreed repairs before closing.

  10. 10

    Close

    Sign documents, pay cash to close and get your keys.

How long does it take to buy a house?

House hunting varies widely, but once you're under contract, closing typically takes 30 to 45 days. Being pre-approved with documents ready keeps things moving.

Frequently asked questions

It isn't required, but most buyers use one for pricing advice, negotiation and managing deadlines.

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Figures on this page are estimates for educational purposes only and are not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Rates, loan limits, fees and assistance programs change frequently and vary by lender, location and borrower profile. Confirm current terms with a licensed loan officer.