Home Buying Process Timeline: 11 Steps Every Buyer Should Know

Buying a home takes about six months, give or take, from beginning your search to signing the final papers. While that might seem longer than expected, there’s good news for buyers: the market is handing buyers more of the negotiating power than it has in years. There are still far more sellers than buyers in most markets, giving buyers leverage throughout much of the home buying process. Sellers are continuing to offer concessions, like closing cost credits and rate buydowns, at some of the highest rates on record, creating opportunities to lower your upfront costs or monthly payments. Whether you’re buying your first home or your fifth, understanding what happens at each stage can help the process feel more manageable—and help you know where today’s market gives you more room to negotiate. Here are the 11 steps of the home buying process you need to know. The home buying process at a glance Determine your budget Get pre-approved for a mortgage Find a real estate agent Start your home search Make an offer Negotiate your offer Start the closing process Line up a home inspection Finalize your financing and appraisal Final walk through Pay closing costs and sign paperwork 1. Determin...