The Home-Buying Process, Step by Step
Every purchase is a little different, but the path is remarkably consistent. Here are the stages, in order.
- 1
Start with a conversation, not a listing.
Before you fall in love with a house, it is worth understanding what you can comfortably afford and what your monthly picture looks like. This is a no-pressure conversation — the goal is clarity, not a commitment.
- 2
Get pre-approved.
A pre-approval tells you (and sellers) what you can realistically borrow. It is based on your income, credit, and debts. In competitive situations, a solid pre-approval letter is often what separates an accepted offer from an ignored one.
- 3
Find your home with your agent.
Your real estate agent handles the search, showings, and negotiation. A good lender and a good agent work as a team — deadlines get met, and surprises get avoided.
- 4
Make an offer and go under contract.
Once a seller accepts, you are "under contract." The clock then starts on inspections, the appraisal, and financing.
- 5
Inspection and appraisal.
An inspection tells you about the home’s condition; an appraisal confirms the home’s value for the loan. Having spent years inspecting homes, Robert pays close attention here — a clear-eyed read on condition protects you.
- 6
Underwriting.
The lender verifies everything and finalizes your loan. This is where organization and responsiveness matter most — and where an experienced loan officer keeps the file moving.
- 7
Closing.
You sign, funds transfer, and you receive the keys. This is the calm finish line when the earlier steps were handled well.
The buyers who feel calm at closing are almost always the ones who started with clarity — step one — instead of starting with a house.
Buying outside Tennessee? Illinois, Indiana, and Florida applications route to Robert's trusted lending partner.
This page provides general educational information only. It is not financial, legal, or tax advice, nor a commitment to lend. Programs, guidelines, and requirements are subject to change, and not all borrowers will qualify. Robert Gass, NMLS ID 2844920 · Marketplace Mortgage Inc., Company NMLS 2429405 · Equal Housing Opportunity. Licensed in Tennessee and serving clients statewide; for lending needs in other states, Robert can connect you with a qualified partner.