🏡 FREE HOME BUYER CHECKLIST

From “Maybe Someday” to “Welcome Home.”

Buying a home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Use this simple checklist to stay organized and understand what happens from your first conversation through closing day.

✅ 1. Define Your Goals

• Think about why you want to buy.
• Decide which locations work best for you.
• Separate your must-haves from your nice-to-haves.
• Consider your ideal moving timeline.

✅ 2. Review Your Finances

• Check your credit.
• Review your income, debts, and monthly expenses.
• Decide what monthly payment feels comfortable.
• Begin planning for your down payment, closing costs, and savings after closing.

✅ 3. Speak With a Lender

• Ask about available loan programs.
• Learn how much you may qualify to borrow.
• Review the estimated monthly payment—not just the purchase price.
• Obtain a pre-approval letter before seriously shopping.

✅ 4. Choose Your REALTOR®

Your REALTOR® should do much more than open doors. Choose someone who listens, explains the process, understands the local market, helps you evaluate value, negotiates for you, and keeps the transaction moving.

✅ 5. Begin Your Home Search

• Tour homes that fit your needs and budget.
• Compare location, condition, features, and future resale potential.
• Take notes so the homes do not begin blending together.
• Keep an open mind without abandoning your priorities.

✅ 6. Prepare Your Offer

• Review comparable sales and market conditions.
• Discuss price, financing, timelines, contingencies, and seller contributions.
• Understand the earnest-money requirements.
• Read and ask questions before signing.

✅ 7. Complete Inspections and Due Diligence

• Schedule the appropriate inspections.
• Review disclosures and available property information.
• Understand any repair or maintenance concerns.
• Pay close attention to every contractual deadline.

✅ 8. Complete Financing and Insurance

• Respond promptly to lender requests.
• Avoid taking on new debt or making large purchases.
• Arrange homeowners insurance.
• Review the appraisal and final loan information.

✅ 9. Prepare for Closing

• Review your closing disclosure and required funds.
• Complete the final walkthrough.
• Confirm the closing time and location.
• Bring the required identification and documents.

🔑 10. Get the Keys!

Sign your closing documents, receive your keys, and celebrate your new home!

💜 DEBBY’S BEST ADVICE

You do not need to know everything before you begin. Start with a conversation. A knowledgeable REALTOR® and lender can help you understand your options and create a realistic plan—even if you are not ready to buy today.

Have Questions?

No question is a silly question. Whether you are buying next month or next year, I am happy to help you make a plan.

Debby McDermott, REALTOR®
Watson Realty Corp.
Licensed in Georgia and Florida
Georgia MLS #421536 | Florida License #3601514

Cell: 912-409-2395
Email: DebMcD@WatsonRealtyCorp.com

Serving St. Marys, Kingsland, Kings Bay, Woodbine and Camden County, Georgia, plus Yulee, Fernandina Beach and Nassau County, Florida.