1. Contact a local real estate professional that has knowledge of the area in which you are looking to purchase. Interview the agent, discuss how the agent's services can benefit your property search.  Discuss wants, needs, and other information related to you next purchase. Typically, an agency contract is made between the real estate professional and homebuyer.

2. Speak with banks and mortgage companies to gain pre-approval.  Getting pre-approved for a loan saves times, gives you greater buying power, and helps determine a price range to start your property search.

3. Start viewing homes!  You real estate professional will assist in finding properties of interest to you.

4. Make an offer on a property.  Your real estate professional will assist you in making an offer, including communicating the offer to the sellers and seller's representatives.

5. Negotiate the offer with the seller and reach agreed terms and conditions.  Once an agreement is made and documents are signed by both the buyer & seller, a contract is formed.

6. After a contract is formed between a buyer & seller, the due diligence period occurs.  During this period the buyer, along with the assistance of the real estate professional and other 3rd party professionals, performs inspections on the property and finalizes mortgage approval.  All inspections of the property are typically completed near the beginning of the due diligence period to allow for any necessary repairs to be completed before the closing.  Mortgage approval from a lender typically requires the lender to conduct an appraisal on the property, verification of employment, credit checks, and verification of income.  Your real estate professional can provide a list of local banks and lenders.

7. Also during the due diligence period, a closing attorney conducts a title search on the under contract property.  A title search is performed to ensure the properties title is clear and the property can be transferred clear of any liens. 

8. Closing documents are prepared by the closing attorney.

9. Closing day arrives!  A final walk-through of the property is performed to ensure the property is in the same condition as at the time the original contract was formed.

10. A closing occurs. Typically at the closing attorney's office.  All closing documents are signed by both the buyer and seller and the attorney records the transfer of deed at the local courthouse.  Ownership is established by the signing and recording of the deed.

11. As a new homeowner, you are handed the keys to your new home and the move in process begins!!!!!