First-Time Home Buyers: Every Step Explained Before You Take It
Every step explained in plain language, from pre-approval to keys, by someone who answers before you have to ask.
What first-time home buyers need most
First-time home buyers in Scottsdale, Cave Creek and Anthem usually have the same question in different words: what happens next, and what am I agreeing to? Buying a first home involves new terms, real deadlines and a lot of money, and most of it happens in a few weeks.
You don’t need to know all of it before you start. You need someone who explains each step before you take it, answers questions without making you feel rushed, and tells you plainly when a home isn’t right.
Ask me your first questions
How I guide a first purchase
I’m Valerie Moe, with Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living, and I’ve guided buyers for twenty years. With a first purchase, my role shifts toward teacher: I explain how each piece works, why it matters, and what your options are, then you decide.
You’ll hear from me before you have to ask. If something in a contract, an inspection report or a loan document isn’t clear, we go through it together until it is.
Your first purchase, step by step
- Talk to a lender first. A pre-approval shows what you can borrow. We also talk about what you’re comfortable paying each month, which is often less. Ask your lender which loan programs and down payment options you may qualify for. I can introduce lenders I’ve worked with, and you’re always free to choose your own. See getting ready to buy.
- Sign a buyer broker agreement. It puts our working relationship in writing, and we read it together before you sign.
- Learn what your budget buys. Sold prices, not asking prices, plus HOA dues, taxes and insurance. See knowing your market.
- Tour fewer homes, better ones. We separate must-haves from nice-to-haves first.
- Make an offer you understand. Price, terms and earnest money, which is typically up to 3% for most of my buyers and held by the title company.
- Inspect, then close. A 10-day inspection period is usual. I help you read the report and decide what to ask for, then stay with you through closing.
Mistakes worth avoiding
Most first-purchase regrets come from a few avoidable mistakes. Touring before you’re pre-approved, and falling for a home you can’t write on. Budgeting only for the mortgage and forgetting HOA dues, taxes and insurance. Waiving an inspection to win. Making large purchases or opening new credit before closing, which can affect your loan.
We talk through each of these early, so they don’t surprise you later.
First homes across the areas I serve
- First-time buyers in Anthem
- First-time buyers in North Phoenix
- First-time buyers in Peoria
- First-time buyers in Buckeye
- First-time buyers in Scottsdale
Have questions before you’re ready to look? That’s a good time to talk. Contact me, read my guide to buying a home, or return to the home page.
This page describes my general process and is not legal, tax, financial or lending advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I need for a down payment?
It depends on your loan program. Your lender can explain the options you qualify for. Plan for closing costs and earnest money too, which we talk through before you make an offer.
What is earnest money?
A deposit that shows the seller you’re serious. For most of my buyers it’s typically up to 3% of the price, negotiated case by case, and held by the title company.
Do I need a home inspection?
I strongly recommend one. The inspection period, usually 10 days, is your time to learn the home’s condition and decide what to ask the seller to address.
Free guide
Your First Home, Step by Step
What happens from pre-approval to keys, what it costs, and the questions to ask at every step.
Keep exploring
Ready to make your move with Valerie Moe?