Getting Started
Last updated: Jan 20257 min readThe Home Buying Timeline
From first search to closing day—what to expect
The home buying process typically takes 2-6 months from start to finish. Here's a realistic timeline of what to expect at each stage.
1Months 1-2: Preparation
Get your finances in order:
Week 1-2:
Week 3-4:
Week 5-8:
Week 1-2:
- Check credit reports (all 3 bureaus)
- Calculate your budget
- Start saving for down payment
Week 3-4:
- Get pre-approved for mortgage
- Research neighborhoods
- Find a real estate agent
Week 5-8:
- Create your wish list
- Start touring homes
- Refine your priorities
2Weeks 9-12: House Hunting
Active searching phase:
When you find "the one":
- Tour 10-20+ homes on average
- Attend open houses
- Drive neighborhoods at different times
- Research schools, commutes, crime
When you find "the one":
- Make an offer quickly (competitive markets)
- Be prepared for negotiations
- Expect counter-offers
3Weeks 13-17: Under Contract
After your offer is accepted:
Week 1: Earnest money deposit, inspections scheduledWeek 2: Home inspection, negotiate repairsWeek 3: Appraisal ordered and completedWeek 4: Final loan approval (underwriting)Week 5: Final walkthrough, closing prep
During this time:
Week 1: Earnest money deposit, inspections scheduledWeek 2: Home inspection, negotiate repairsWeek 3: Appraisal ordered and completedWeek 4: Final loan approval (underwriting)Week 5: Final walkthrough, closing prep
During this time:
- DON'T change jobs
- DON'T open new credit
- DON'T make large purchases
4Closing Day
The finish line:
Before closing:
At closing:
After closing:
Before closing:
- Review Closing Disclosure (3 days prior)
- Wire closing funds or get cashier's check
- Do final walkthrough (same day or day before)
At closing:
- Sign documents (lots of them!)
- Pay closing costs
- Receive keys
After closing:
- Change locks
- Set up utilities
- File homestead exemption
Pro Tips
- Build in buffer time—delays are common
- Stay in close contact with your lender
- Keep all financial documents organized
- Celebrate—you earned it! 🎉