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Buying your home

Start here if you're making an offer, closing on a home, or getting ready to move

Making an offer

From offer to keys, this guide walks homebuyers through every step of the home stretch, helping make the final stages of buying a home feel clear, manageable, and within reach.

Here’s what this page covers:

  • Making your offer
  • Preparing for your closing
  • What to know after move-in

How do I make an offer?

You're in the homestretch to getting your keys. From making an offer to signing papers, you'll get familiar with each step and feel good about what comes next.

Decide what to offer

Making an offer means balancing what you can afford with what it may take to compete in the market. Work with your agent to understand local market conditions, evaluate the home's value, and develop an offer strategy that aligns with your budget and goals.

Negotiate the price

This part is about more than just a number. Timing, repairs, or even seller-paid closing costs are all on the table. Your real estate agent will help guide the give-and-take.

Make a deposit

An earnest money deposit is like putting skin in the game, showing you’re committed. It’s usually 1–3% of the home price and goes into escrow. If the deal goes through, it counts toward your purchase.

Sign purchase agreement

The purchase agreement outlines everything from price and timing to inspections and financing. Contingency clauses give you an out if something important (like the appraisal or home inspection) doesn’t go your way.

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Preparing for your closing

  • Make an earnest money deposit. Earnest money is a deposit that shows the seller you're serious about buying the home. Typically 1% to 2% of the purchase price, it can be applied toward your down payment or closing costs and may be refundable under certain conditions outlined in your contract.
  • Schedule a home inspection. A home inspection can help identify potential issues with the property before closing, giving you the opportunity to negotiate repairs, adjust the purchase price, or make a more informed decision about the home.
  • Secure homeowners insurance. Homeowners insurance helps protect your home, belongings, and finances from covered losses. Most lenders require it before closing, and the cost can often be included in your monthly mortgage payment.
  • Meet with your lender. Within a week of your offer being accepted, you’ll need to meet with your lender to schedule an appraisal. Your lender will work with the appraiser to determine how much your new home is worth. It’s important to move quickly in this stage so your loan application can be approved.
  • Schedule your final walk-through. Work with your real estate agent to schedule a final walk-through of the home to ensure everything is as you expect.
  • Review the closing disclosure. The Closing Disclosure document provides an opportunity to double-check your loan details, so be sure to review it carefully. 

Here's what you'll need to bring to closing:

  • A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, so the closing attorneys or agents can verify your identity.
  • A cashier's check or certified check for your closing costs if you chose to not wire transfer the funds beforehand. If you did conduct a wire transfer, bring proof of the transfer.
  • Your checkbook in case there are any last-minute changes to the amount you will pay at closing.
  • Proof of homeowners insurance.
  • The Closing Disclosure you received from your lender beforehand. You should have already compared this document to the loan terms you agreed to, but be sure to have it on hand to review the documents at closing, as well.
  • Any additional cosigners on your home and loan, including your spouse. Everyone should be present to sign.

Our advice: Keep your finances low key

Between offer and closing, avoid opening new credit cards or making big purchases. Even changing jobs can slow things down. Keep your financial life quiet until the keys are in your hand.

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You did it! Welcome home

Top 10 things to do when moving in

  1. Set up utilities
  2. Change your address
  3. Change the locks
  4. Install a security system
  5. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
  6. Schedule movers
  7. Deep clean your home
  8. Paint and make repairs
  9. Meet your neighbors
  10. Celebrate!
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Owning your home is powerful

"With that power comes the chance to shape a sustainable, secure future for you and your family. Keep in touch with your mortgage team, because we're your partners long after closing day."

 –Chuck Bishop, SVP, Wells Fargo Home Lending

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We're still here for you, when you need us

Whether it's budgeting for repairs or understanding your mortgage statement, our team is ready to help you thrive as a homeowner.

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