Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. As a trusted Locust Grove REALTOR ®, I’ve helped countless home buyers navigate the process with confidence. In this guide, I’ll break down each step in the home buying journey, provide an estimated timeline for how long each step can take, and offer expert tips to make your experience smooth and successful.

How Long Does the Home Buying Process Take?

The home buying process typically takes 30 to 90 days from mortgage pre-approval to closing, depending on the market, financing, and other factors. Here’s a general timeline:

  • Pre-Approval & Home Search: 1-3 months
  • Making an Offer & Negotiation: 1-2 weeks
  • Home Inspection & Appraisal: 2-4 weeks
  • Loan Processing & Underwriting: 3-6 weeks
  • Closing: 1 day

It is important to note that some of these events are happening simultaneously; for example, while a buyer is completing a home inspection, the mortgage lender will be working on processing the loan.  Now, let’s break it down step by step so you know exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage (1-2 Weeks)

Before you start house hunting, it’s crucial to understand how much home you can afford. Getting pre-approved will:

  • Show sellers you’re a serious buyer.
  • Give you a clear budget range.
  • Prevent surprises when applying for a loan later.

How to Get Pre-Approved:

  • Choose a lender and submit financial documents (pay stubs, tax returns, credit report, etc.).
  • The lender reviews your finances and provides a pre-approval letter.

💡 Pro Tip: Work with a lender who understands the Locust Grove market for a smoother process.

Step 2: Find the Right Home (1-3 Months)

Now comes the fun part—house hunting! A great Locust Grove REALTOR ® (like me!) can help you:

  • Identify your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves.
  • Find homes within your budget.
  • Schedule showings and guide you through the selection process.

Questions to Ask Yourself When Viewing Homes:

  • Does it fit my budget and lifestyle?
  • Will this home work for the long term?
  • Is it in a good location with strong resale value?
  • Am I comfortable with the commute to work from this property?
  • Are there any potential red flags (structural issues, outdated systems, etc.) to consider?

Step 3: Make an Offer & Negotiate (1-2 Weeks)

Once you’ve found the perfect home, it’s time to make an offer. Your Locust Grove REALTOR ®  will:

  • Help you determine a competitive offer price by considering the local housing market, the market value of the home, and other factors.
  • Draft and submit the offer contract.
  • Negotiate on your behalf if counteroffers arise.

💡 Pro Tip: Sellers are more likely to accept offers with fewer contingencies and strong financing.

Step 4: Home Inspection & Appraisal (2-4 Weeks)

Home Inspection: A home inspection provides buyers with a deeper understanding of the condition of a house.

A licensed inspector checks the property for issues like:

  • Roof damage
  • Plumbing or electrical problems
  • Structural concerns

After the inspection you will receive a document detailing everything the inspector learned about the property.  From this document, buyers can create a list of requested repairs that they would like the sellers to fix.   Your Locust Grove REALTOR ®can negotiate repairs or credits with the seller’s agent.

Remember, not all repairs are deal breakers.  For example, a broken GFCI outlet is a simple repair.  It is up to you as the buyer to determine what you are comfortable repairing. 

Home Appraisal: A home appraisal determines the value of the home.  It is conducted by a third-party appraiser.

  • Your lender orders an appraisal to determine the home’s value in order to ensure that the home is worth the amount of money being borrowed.
  • If the appraisal is lower than the offer price, negotiations may be needed.

Step 5: Loan Processing & Underwriting (3-6 Weeks)

While you wait for closing, your lender will:

  • Verify your financial documents.
  • Conduct underwriting to approve the loan.
  • Provide a Closing Disclosure outlining final costs.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid making large purchases or changing jobs during this time, as it can impact loan approval.

Step 6: Closing & Getting the Keys (1 Day)

Once your loan is approved, it’s time to close! Here’s what happens:

  • You review and sign closing documents.
  • Pay closing costs and down payment.
  • Receive the keys to your new home! 🎉

Ready to Start Your Home Buying Journey? Let’s Talk

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make. As a dedicated Locust Grove REALTOR ®, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

📞 Call 540-360-5166 or Email [email protected] to schedule a free home buying consultation!