Roadmap consultation
Goals, timeline, needs versus wants and a comfortable housing budget.
✦First-time buyer field guide
Know the trail before you take the first step.
Clear, Chattanooga-specific guidance for understanding what you can afford, who does what and what happens between “maybe someday” and getting the keys.
✦The full roadmap
Six stops on the way home
Financing and preapproval
Loan choices, cash-to-close estimates and questions for potential lenders.
Search and home tours
Focused searches plus a practical checklist for condition, location and long-term fit.
Offer and contract
Price, contingencies, earnest money, due diligence and important deadlines.
Inspection and resolution
Review findings, prioritize concerns and discuss available options.
Final steps and closing
Appraisal, title work, final walkthrough, closing funds and getting the keys.
✦Plan beyond the down payment
The true cost of buying a home
Your lender and closing professionals will provide exact figures. These categories help you know what to ask about.
Before closing
- Earnest money
- Inspection fees
- Appraisal, when charged separately
At closing
- Down payment
- Lender and title costs
- Prepaid taxes and insurance
After move-in
- Utilities and moving
- Maintenance reserve
- Immediate repairs or furnishings
Amounts and requirements vary by property, lender and transaction. Consult the appropriate licensed professional for financial, tax and legal advice.
✦Free buyer resource
Want the printable version?
Request Zaina’s first-time home buyer field guide with the roadmap, glossary, tour checklist and planning worksheets.