Step-by-Step Guide for First Time Homebuyers


A Minnesota realtor is able to provide you with the assistance that you need when searching for your first home.  Attempting to buy a home without professional help can lead to many missed opportunities.  This is why so many people turn to a Minnesota real estate agent for the right support. 

Get Prequalified

In order to submit a bid on a home, you will need to have a prequalification letter.  Many sellers will not entertain an offer unless a contract is accompanied by this document.  You can ask your Minnesota real estate agent if they can refer you to a loan company in order to make the process easier. 

Obtaining a prequalification letter allows you to know your loan limits, interest rate and expected monthly mortgage payment.  This is pertinent data that aids in a home search. 

Make a List of Your Needs

Depending on your particular budget, you will want to make a list of the essential features that you are looking for in a home. You should take the time to distinguish between wants and needs, so that you can stay within your budget and to find a home within a reasonable amount of time.  You will have to decide on the:

  • ·         Number of bedrooms
  • ·         Number of floors
  • ·         Number of bathrooms
  • ·         Garage/Parking
  • ·         Full/Partial Basement
  • ·         Yard Size
  • ·         Age of the home
  • ·         Kitchen Amenities


Don't forget that this is your first home and will not likely be your last.  It is perfectly normal to purchase a home that doesn't meet your every need.  You can either remodel the home or buy a new house at a later point in time.

Performing  a Home Search

Once you have determined your needs, you can give them to your Minnesota realtor to begin the home search.  Your Minnesota real estate agent will present you with available properties that match your
  • ·         Budget,
  • ·         Home Features, and
  • ·         Targeted Area


Your Minnesota real estate agent will set up all of the necessary appointments for the properties that you would like to view.   A Minnesota realtor is also able to assist you in acquiring additional information that you would not be able to find on your own.

Placing an Offer

Once you have found your ideal first home, you should place your offer as quickly as possible.  The longer you wait, the less likely it will remain on the market.  A Minnesota real estate agent will be able to tell you how many days it has been listed, so that it can help you decide what you would like to offer for the property.  Your Minnesota realtor will present the offer to the seller and handle any necessary negotiations on your behalf. 

Closing the Deal

When a seller accepts your contract, you will be able to move forward with the real estate closing.  Your Minnesota realtor can also refer you to a reliable attorney that will handle the entire closing from start to finish.  A typical home takes about 60 days to close.  Once you near the closing date, you can begin to make your moving arrangements and address changes so that you can move into your first home.  This is all made possible with the assistance of a Minnesota real estate agent.