House Hunting (if buying)

- The home hunting stage is the third step in the mortgage process and is often the most exciting part for buyers, as it’s when you actively search for the property that meets your needs, budget, and lifestyle. With your pre-approval in hand, you now have a clear understanding of your price range, which helps narrow down your search and saves valuable time.

- During this step, you’ll work closely with a real estate agent to explore neighborhoods, compare different properties, and evaluate important factors such as location, size, condition, amenities, and potential for future value.

- It’s also the time to consider your non-negotiables versus nice-to-have features, so you can focus on homes that truly fit your vision.

- House hunting may involve attending open houses, scheduling private showings, and researching market trends to make informed decisions.

- This stage can be thrilling but also requires patience and diligence to ensure you choose a property that aligns with both your current needs and long-term goals.

- Once you find “the one,” you’ll be ready to move forward with making an offer and continuing the mortgage process.