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How to Buy a House: An Agent's Guide to Making It Happen

Writer's picture: Ciara Ciara



Buying a house is easier than you think when you know the right steps.

Purchasing your dream home is one of life’s most exciting milestones, but it can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. I’ve helped many people navigate the process, and I’m here to share exactly how you can do it too. Let’s break it down into simple steps to help you move forward with confidence.


1. Get Your Finances in Order

Start with your budget. Before falling in love with a house, speak with mortgage lenders to get pre-approved for a loan. A real estate agent will have recommended local lenders who can explain different loan products and costs, so you’re aware of your out-of-pocket expenses.

Local lenders will provide you with available home ownership programs to reduce your out of pocket expenses!

2. Work with the Right Real Estate Agent

Not all agents are created equal. Find one who understands your needs, knows the local market, and has a proven track record.

Fact: Buyers who work with a qualified agent often pay less for their homes. Your agent will help you find the perfect property, negotiate offers, and navigate paperwork, making the process smooth and stress-free.

3. Prioritize Your Needs and Wants

Make a list of what you need versus what you want in a home. Be realistic about your non-negotiables, like proximity to work, school districts, or must-have features.

Actionable Tip: Sometimes an "ugly" home may be in better condition than a "cosmetically renovated" home that looks nicer in photos but has underlying issues. Rank your top three priorities to guide your search, helping you focus on homes that check the right boxes.

4. Be Ready to Make a Competitive Offer

Once you find the home, act fast. Work with your agent to write a strong offer based on market conditions and comparable sales. In North Carolina, this includes negotiating terms such as closing costs, repair requests, and deposit amounts. The due diligence fee is paid upfront and is non-refundable if you back out, while the earnest money deposit further secures your commitment and is typically refundable under certain conditions.

Mistake to Avoid: Underbidding in a seller’s market. If you love a house, don’t hesitate—homes sell quickly, and timing matters. A good agent will help you strike the perfect balance between competitive and smart.

5. Once Under Contract: What Happens Next?

After your offer is accepted, the loan process moves into underwriting. During this stage, the lender reviews your financial documents and orders an appraisal to confirm the home’s value matches the loan amount. The appraisal protects you and the lender from overpaying.

Tip: Time is of the essence! Respond quickly to your lender’s requests for additional documents to avoid delays. Your agent will also coordinate with the seller and closing attorney to keep everything on track, ensuring inspections and contingencies are addressed.

6. Prepare for Inspections

A home inspection is a crucial step in the buying process. This professional evaluation ensures the property is in good condition and helps identify any potential issues, such as structural damage, electrical problems, or plumbing concerns.

If the inspection reveals significant repairs, you can negotiate with the seller to address the issues before closing. Options include asking the seller to make the repairs, requesting a credit toward repairs, or adjusting the purchase price. This step protects your investment and provides peace of mind.

7. Close the Deal

Once inspections and negotiations are complete, it’s time for the closing process. During this phase, you’ll sign the final paperwork & secure your mortgage. Your real estate agent and closing attorney will guide you through this step to ensure all documents are accurate and the transaction is seamless. Once everything is finalized, you’ll receive the keys to your new home—congratulations, you’re officially a homeowner!

Tip: Remember to transfer utilities into your name and forward your address with the postal service. Moving day will be much smoother when your new home has running water, electricity, and internet ready to go.



Buying a house doesn’t have to be complicated. By taking these steps and working with the right team, you can turn the process into an exciting and rewarding experience. Ready to take the leap? Let’s find your home together!


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