Start by determining your budget and getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Then, reach out to a real estate agent who can guide you through the listings, showings, and negotiations.

Mortgage pre-approval is a lender’s conditional agreement to loan you a specific amount. It strengthens your offer when buying a home and helps you understand your price range.

Pay attention to the condition of the roof, plumbing, electrical systems, and overall layout. Also, consider the neighborhood, commute times, and local amenities.

Your offer should be based on comparable properties (comps), the home’s condition, market trends, and how long it’s been on the market. Your agent can help you determine a competitive offer.

It depends on your priorities. New construction homes offer modern layouts, energy efficiency, and lower maintenance, but they may be more expensive and take time to build. Existing homes often come with established neighborhoods and mature landscaping but might need renovations or updates.

Start with decluttering, deep cleaning, and completing any necessary repairs. Consider professional staging and high-quality photos to increase buyer interest.

Your real estate agent will conduct a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to price your home competitively based on recent sales, current listings, and market conditions.

The timeline depends on location, price, market conditions, and property condition. On average, homes sell within 30–90 days in an active market.

Once you accept an offer, the buyer typically schedules a home inspection and finalizes their financing. You’ll move through appraisal, negotiations (if needed), and title checks before reaching closing day. Your agent will guide you through each step to ensure a smooth transaction.

Making minor repairs and improvements can help your home sell faster and for a better price. Focus on fixing visible issues like leaky faucets, chipped paint, or broken fixtures. A pre-listing inspection can also help identify and address potential problems before buyers see them.

Typically, you’ll need proof of income, photo ID, rental history, references, and sometimes a credit report.

Pet policies vary by landlord or property. Always check the listing details or ask before applying.

Most leases include terms for early termination, which may involve paying a fee or forfeiting your security deposit. Some landlords may allow subletting or lease transfers. Always review your lease agreement and speak with your landlord before making a decision.

A security deposit is paid upfront to cover potential damages or unpaid rent. It is usually refundable if the property is left in good condition at the end of the lease.

The rental application process typically takes 1 to 3 business days, depending on how quickly you submit required documents and how long it takes to verify your information, such as credit history, income, and references.