The 7-stage first-time homebuyer checklist
From pre-approval to move-in, this free printable checklist walks you through every step in plain English, no jargon included. Get organized and feel ready.
The financial prep checklist
Before you tour a single home, get your money in order. These five steps cover the groundwork every lender will check.
Credit report
Pull all three reports and fix errors. Your score drives your rate.
Income and debt
Add up monthly payments and debts to see what you can carry.
Housing budget
Set a monthly payment you'd be comfortable with, not just the max.
Savings targets
Estimate what you need for the down payment, closing costs, and extras.
Spending freeze
Hold off on new loans or big purchases while you're getting approved.
Your mortgage checklist, simplified
Once your budget is set, it's time to line up your financing. This stage walks you through the practical side of getting mortgage ready.
Gather documents
Track down your IDs, pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements in one folder.
Research lenders
Compare a few local banks, credit unions, and online lenders before you commit.
Compare loan terms
Don't just look at rates. Check fees, points, and closing costs side by side.
Get pre-approved
A pre-approval letter shows sellers you're serious and clarifies your price range.
Know your payment
Calculate your full monthly payment, not just the principal and interest. It adds up.
Save for closing
Plan for cash to close, including the down payment, fees, and prepaid costs.
Know where to look?
You're pre-approved and ready. Let's turn that mortgage approval into a shortlist of homes worth seeing.
Define your must-haves
List the non-negotiables first, like bedrooms, commute, and yard space.
Set a search radius
Pick the neighborhoods that fit your budget and daily routine.
Save listings daily
Track new homes each morning so you spot fresh listings fast.
Use a scorecard
Compare each home against your list before you book a showing.
Check the commute
Drive the route at rush hour, not just on a quiet Sunday.
Ask the right questions
Bring your list of agent questions to every open house you visit.
6 checks that save you from a costly mistake
Once you find a home you like, slow down. Run through these six checks before you make an offer.
Price check
Compare the asking price with similar homes sold nearby. This keeps your offer realistic.
Condition review
Walk through the home and note anything that looks worn, cracked, or outdated.
Book inspection
Schedule a licensed inspector right away. A thorough report protects you from surprises.
Review findings
Read the inspection report carefully and decide which issues matter most to you.
Insurance quote
Get a home insurance cost estimate before you commit. Rates vary more than you'd think.
Taxes and HOA
Look up the property taxes and HOA fees. These add to your monthly cost.
The offer is where most buyers get nervous
Don't let the contract stage trip you up. Here's what to watch for so your offer goes through without surprises.
Offer terms
Know exactly what you're signing. We break down each clause in plain language.
Deadlines
Miss a date and you could lose the house. We'll help you track every one.
Inspections
Understand your inspection and due-diligence rights before you commit.
Lender requests
Respond to lender questions fast with a simple system that keeps you organized.
Get ready to close
Once your offer is accepted, the final stretch is all about details. Nail these closing steps and you will have the keys.
Review conditions
Check appraisal and lender conditions with your agent so nothing surprises you.
Check disclosure
Read your Closing Disclosure carefully and confirm the numbers match your terms.
Ask questions
Never hesitate to ask your lender or agent about anything that seems unclear.
Confirm cash
Review your cash to close and have the funds ready for your closing date.
Final walkthrough
Take your final walkthrough and confirm the home is in the agreed condition.
Confirm details
Double-check closing time, place, and documents, then keep a copy of everything.
The First 30 Days at Home, handled
Settle in without the scramble. This stage of the checklist walks you through the practical tasks that make the first month smooth and stress-free.
Utilities
Transfer internet, water, and power into your name before you unpack.
Find the shutoffs
Locate the water shutoff and breaker panel early, so you're ready if something leaks.
Test alarms
Check every smoke and carbon monoxide detector and replace batteries as needed.
Change the locks
Re-key or swap locks so you know exactly who has a key to your door.
HVAC filters
Replace the air filters on day one and put a reminder on your calendar to swap them regularly.
Look for issues
Walk every room, test outlets, and note anything the inspector might have missed.
Get the Complete Buyer Bundle with worksheets and trackers
Turn this checklist into a full plan. The bundle adds scorecards, trackers, and planning tools to guide you through closing and your first year.
Get the complete buyer bundle
Once your first month is handled, there's more to organize. The Complete Buyer Bundle from First Home Command Center includes the Pre-Approval Pack, House-Hunting Scorecard, and Closing-Day Bible.