Buying a House Checklist
Table of Contents
Finances
If you haven't started saving, do so now! Experts advise to deposit approximately 5-10% of the house price.
Review your current financial situation
Get a credit report.
Research your mortgage and financing options.
Meet with a financial/mortgage advisor.
Reduce or eliminate your debt
Consider rolling your debt into your mortgage.
Be aware of the extra costs associated with buying a home, such as bank fees, loan fees, property valuation, pest inspection, etc.
If you are a first time home owner, investigate government grants and financial aid.
Set a budget.
Get homeowner's insurance if you are a first-time buyer.
Read all documents carefully before signing
Keep all papers in a secure location.
Choosing a House
Research locations by reviewing newspapers, websites, real estate publications, making visits and discussing with friends and family.
Research various neighborhoods (city council, schools, crime rates, parks and public spaces, transportation, shops, banks, leisure and cultural activities, nightlife, etc
).
Research property values and trends.
Make a list of criteria for your new house
Be aware that 'the perfect house' might not exist; prioritize your demands and desires.
Find a real estate agent to help you search for properties.
Make appointments to view as many houses as you can.
Attend Open House days.
Find a home inspector you are comfortable with and can trust.
Have the residence inspected
Pay special attention to flood and fire history, insect/pest infestation, foundations, a leaky roof, etc.
Seek legal advice if buying in another country.
If buying in another country, consider transportation routes, cultural differences, year-round weather, etc.
Download or Print this Buying a House Checklist
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Presented by:
Nicole Nichols-West
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Tips
And after it is all done, don't forget to:
Find a moving company (see our 'Moving' checklist for related tasks and deadlines). Find storage options for items you won't move immediately and may need to store temporarily. Buy appliances and furniture as needed.
Who it's for
This Buying a House Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.
- Avoid forgetting - keep all your Buying a House essentials in one place (external memory)
- Save time - start from a proven Buying a House structure instead of a blank page
- Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
- Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
- Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time
How to use it
How to use this Buying a House Checklist
- Save Buying a House Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
- Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for Buying a House (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
- If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
- Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.