First-Time Home Buyer Checklist
This checklist helps first-time home buyers navigate the essential steps and paperwork involved in purchasing a new home.
Free — save your own editable copy, customize it, set reminders, and share it with others.
- Determine your budget and how much you can afford.
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage.
- Research and choose a reliable real estate agent.
- List your must-have features in a home.
- Start browsing homes online.
- Schedule home tours for potential properties.
- Evaluate neighborhoods and check school districts.
- Review the property disclosure statement.
- Make an offer on your chosen home.
- Negotiate the price and terms of sale.
- Schedule a home inspection.
- Review the inspection report and discuss repairs.
- Finalize your mortgage application.
- Obtain homeowners insurance.
- Prepare for closing day and review closing documents.
- Conduct a final walkthrough of the home.
- Attend the closing meeting.
- Transfer utilities and services to your name.
- Change your address with the post office.
- Move into your new home!
- Keep all home purchase documents in a safe place.
Free — save your own editable copy, customize it, set reminders, and share it with others.