There are very few things in this world as intimidating as buying a home. The knowledge required to purchase a home includes learning about a number of different (and complex) professional industries: mortgage, real estate, inspection, appraisal, title and insurance. The following infographic outlines the home buying process, and helps relieve some of the stress that may arise as you move through the purchase whether it is your very first time or hundredth.

1. THE HOME BUYI NG TI MELI NE
LOAN PRE-APPROVAL
PHASE I
demystifying one of the biggest purchases in life
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meet with loan officer
provide documentation
provide MORE documentation
obtain pre-approval letter
INITIAL CONSULTATION
discuss agency relationships
wants and needs
review agent services
market conditions
lending qualifications
OFFER PRESENTATION
dictated by the listing agent
delivery timing may be important
deliver required documentation
presentation & cooperation are key
OFFER PREPARATION
2 standard contracts
sign disclosures & reports
prepare deposit check
OTHER ACTIVITIES
appraisal conducted & reviewed
underwriting
title & escrow actions
confirm insurable, submit to escrow
INVESTIGATIONS
inspections as necessary
buyers' due diligence
scrutinize seller disclosures
talk to neighbors, schools, etc.
discuss findings - go or no-go
HOME SHOPPING
identify and filter online properties
roam open houses & model homes
agent sets property tour
view, eliminate & prioritize
NARROW & TARGET
obtain disclosures & reports
review & discuss findings
agent-to-agent discussion
develop property-specific strategy
PHASE II
NEGOTIATIONS/COUNTER
counter offer
multiple counter offers
verbal doesn't count (maybe)
difficult to wait
OFFER ACCEPTANCE
documentation to lender
deposit to escrow
updated preliminary title report
the beginning of buyers' remorse
PHASE III
PREP FOR CLOSING
repairs agreed
give notice/move plans
removal of all contingencies
sign off at title company
home warranty ordered
call utility companies
CLOSING
final walkthrough (verify condition)
balance of funds to escrow
many behind the scenes activities
deliver the keys