🏡 Your Journey to Homeownership: A Simple and Efficient Guide! 🌟

So, you've decided to take the exciting leap into homeownership? Congratulations! 🎉 It's a big step, but fear not—we're here to guide you through the process with a confident smile on your face. Let's embark on this adventure together! 😊

Step 1: Finding a Lender 🏦 First things first, it's time to find a lender who can run the numbers for you and get you prequalified. They'll help you understand your budget and determine what you can afford. Think of them as your financial fairy godparent! 💰✨

If you need a lender, you can drop us a line here and we will send you our preferred lender list!

Step 2: Searching for the Perfect Realtor 🕵️‍♂️ Next up, it's time to find a realtor. But hey, it's not a blind date—you can interview them! Request your realtor interview checklist here to make sure you are prepared to ask the right questions to your potential house-hunting partner. Your realtor can even recommend a lender if you haven't found one yet. It's all about finding your dream team! 💪

Step 3: Wish List and Budget Talks 📝💸 Once you've got your lender and realtor onboard, it's time to talk about your "wish list" for your future home. What features do you desire? What's your budget? Your realtor will work their magic and set you up on a search for properties that match your criteria. It's like playing matchmaker for your house hunt! ❤️🔎

Step 4: Let the Shopping Begin! 🛍️ Now, it's time to hit the streets (or

rather, schedule some showings). Your realtor will organize the tours, and you'll get to explore potential homes that catch your eye. Most buyers will tour about 8-12 homes and find a couple of great options! So, channel your inner HGTV host and start shopping! 🏠✨

Step 5: Crunching Numbers 🧮 Once you've found a couple of homes you love, it's time to get practical. Your realtor will run the numbers on your top choices, comparing them to similar properties in the area to ensure the price aligns with market conditions. This step ensures you're making an informed decision and staying within your budget. Time to be savvy! 💰💡

Step 6: Crafting a Smart Offer ✍️ Armed with the insights from the numbers game, your realtor will help you draft your offer. It's a great opportunity to discuss with your agent and lender to ensure your offer aligns with your budget and the market. Remember, teamwork makes the dream work! 🤝🏡

Step 7: Let the Negotiations Begin! 💬 It might take some back and forth between your agent and the listing agent but in time you will have an accepted offer! 🎉 After reaching an agreement, the contract will be executed, meaning everyone signs and dates it. It's like sealing the deal with a big red bow! 🎀Remember you will need to deposit any agreed-upon funds (earnest money and option fees) within 72 business hours of an executed contract.

Step 8: Inspection and Repairs 🛠️ For pre-owned homes, there's usually an option period in Texas (anywhere between 3-10 days depending on how your agent negotiates it). During this time, it's recommended to schedule an inspection, which is an out-of-pocket cost for the buyer. Any necessary repairs can be negotiated based on the inspection findings. Don't worry, it's all part of making sure your future home is in tip-top shape! 🔧

Step 9: Appraisal and Underwriting 📋 Once repairs are agreed upon, your lender will order an appraisal, which is also an out-of-pocket cost for the buyer. Meanwhile, make sure you continue to deliver any required documentation to your lender. Delivering everything in a timely manner avoids any delays.

Step 10: Underwriting and Clear to Close 📝✅ Now, it's time for the underwriting process. Your lender will review all the documentation and information you provided to ensure everything meets their requirements. It may involve some back and forth and additional document requests. Once your file is complete and meets the lender's criteria, the lender will issue the magical "clear to close." 🎊🔓

Step 11: Final Touches and Proof of Repairs 🖌️🔍 About a week before closing, your realtor should check that any repairs you requested have been completed. It's important to ask for proof, such as pictures or receipts, to ensure everything is in order. It's all about those finishing touches before the big day! 🏡✨

Step 12: Final Walk-Through 🚶‍♂️🔍 The day before closing, your realtor will schedule a final walk-through of the home. It's your chance to give it a thorough look—turn on lights, faucets, and flush toilets. Check every nook and cranny to ensure everything is as it should be. It's the last chance to catch any surprises before officially becoming a homeowner! 👀🔧

Step 13: Getting Ready for Closing Time! 🎉🏢 In Texas, closings usually take place at a title company since Texas is a what we call a title state. You'll be signing a bunch of documents, but one of the most important ones is the closing disclosure. Your lender must provide this document at least 72 hours before closing, detailing all the costs, credits, and numbers associated with the transaction. The closing disclosure will also state what final cash amount the buyer will have to bring to closing. Many buyers either wire the final cash-to-close to the title company and others make sure to bring a cashier's check to closing. Make sure you have your funds ready the day before. (For more information about what "cash-to-close" is you can view this video). If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to your lender. It's better to be well-informed and prepared! 💼📝 To make the closing process smoother, you can also request that the title company to send you all the closing documents the day before closing. Take some time to review them and jot down any questions you may have. This way, you'll feel more relaxed and confident during the closing itself. Preparation and knowledge are power, after all! 💪💡

Step 14: Home Sweet Home! 🥳🏡 Finally, the moment you've been waiting for—closing day! Once all the paperwork is signed, sealed, delivered, and your loan has funded, you'll officially become a proud homeowner. Celebrate this milestone, embrace the joy, and savor the excitement of starting a new chapter in your very own home. Congratulations! 🎉🔑🏠

Now you are ready for your home ownership journey! Remember to enjoy the adventure and the wonderful memories you'll create in your new nest! 🏡❤️😊 If you are in San Antonio and are looking to purchase or are relocating soon, My Nest San Antonio has fantastic agents that can join you in your Real Estate Journey!

Take a look at some pictures or our amazing clients on their closing day below, we have no doubt this wonderful experience is in your near future!