Buying your first home involves a lot of steps and paperwork, so it helps to know what’s coming.
Here are the basic steps, including how Rideshare Legal Services can save you money on a real estate lawyer:
1. Figure Out What You Can Afford
Before looking at homes, get a clear idea of what you can spend every month.
Remember that buying a home can include more than your mortgage. Consider taxes, homeowners insurance, ongoing home expenses, and upfront costs like your down payment and closing costs.
2. Get Preapproved for a Mortgage
A mortgage preapproval gives you an idea of how much money a lender may be willing to lend you.
It can also show sellers you are serious about buying when you make an offer.
3. Find a Real Estate Agent
You do not have to search for a home or go through the buying process alone.
A real estate agent can help you find homes that fit your budget, set up showings, understand what homes are selling for, and put together an offer when you find one you want.
They also coordinate with the seller’s agent and track key deadlines. Find an agent you trust and feel comfortable asking questions.
4. Find a Home and Make an Offer
Once you find a home you want, you can make an offer. This usually includes the price you are willing to pay and other details of your offer.
The seller can accept it, reject it, or come back with a different offer.
5. Bring in a Real Estate Lawyer
Before you sign the purchase contract, a real estate lawyer can review it, explain what you are agreeing to, and check for possible problems.
Do not assume a contract is “standard” just because it looks that way. Rideshare Legal Services offers real estate legal support at a discounted rate.
6. Get the Home Inspected
A home inspection can help find problems with the home before you buy it.
Depending on what the inspection finds and what your contract says, you may need to discuss repairs or other problems with the seller.
7. Finalize Your Mortgage
After your offer is accepted, you will work with your lender to finish the mortgage process.
They may ask for financial documents and order an appraisal, which helps determine how much the home is worth.
8. Get Ready for Closing
Before closing, there will be more documents to review and costs to prepare for.
You will also usually do a final walk-through to make sure the home is in the condition you expected.
9. Close and Get the Keys
At closing, the final documents are signed, payments are made, and the home officially becomes yours.
Then, you get the keys.
Before You Sign, Use Your Legal Benefit
Rideshare Legal Services offers Uber, Lyft, and black car drivers access to a lawyer for real estate closings at a highly discounted rate.
Buying a home is a big investment. Before you sign important paperwork, use the legal support available to you.
If you need help today, tap below to submit a request or call our Member Helpline at (646) 687-7587.
