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Welcome to Redfin's Homebuying Guide

Thinking of buying a home? Start your journey with confidence - this guide walks you through every step so you know exactly what to expect.

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  • Before Buying a Home
  • How to Afford a Home
  • Homebuying Process
  • Homebuying Programs
  • Homeowner Tips
More...
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Before Buying a Home

There are many benefits to buying a home, from helping you build wealth and independence, to putting down roots in a community. We'll help you decide if now is the time to buy a home and how much you can afford.
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Should You Rent or Buy a Home?

Explore whether continuing to rent or buying a home is the right next step.

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What are the Benefits of Homeownership?

Learn the benefits of owning a home as you decide if you're ready to buy.

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How Much House Can I Afford?

Find out how much you can afford and what homes fit into your budget before you start the homebuying process.

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How to Afford a Home

Figuring out how to afford a home doesn't have to be complicated. We'll help you at every step, from determining how much it costs to buy a home and saving for a downpayment to getting out of debt and improving your credit score.
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How Much Does it Cost to Buy a House?

Determine your budget for buying a home, from your down payment to closing costs.

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How to Get Out of Debt

Learn how to get out of debt fast, so you can start saving money for a home and qualify for a better loan.

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How to Save for a House

Understand your goals, then deploy money-saving strategies like these to get you there.

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How to Improve Your Credit Score

Find out how to improve your credit before buying a home to qualify for more loan options.

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Types of Home Loans for First-Time Buyers

Learn what mortgage loans and programs can make it easier for you to afford a house.

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First-Time Homebuyer Programs by State

Discover first-time homebuyer programs that may help you become a homeowner.

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The Homebuying Process

The homebuying process can seem complicated, but it doesn't have to be. We'll guide you through the process, from finding a real estate agent and getting pre-approved for a mortgage to finding a home, making an offer, and closing on a home.
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What is a Real Estate Agent and How Do I Find One?

Find out what a real estate agent does and how to find a great one.

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Connect with a Redfin Agent

Find a local Redfin Agent to help guide you through the homebuying process.

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How to Choose a Mortgage Lender

Start looking for a mortgage lender early in the homebuying process so you can find one that meets your needs.

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How to Get Pre-Approved for a Home Loan

A mortgage pre-approval can help you determine your loan options and what you can actually afford.

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What to Look for When Buying a House

Determine what's most important to you in a home and what to look out for when touring a house.

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How to Make an Offer on a House

Find out how to make an offer on a house, from selecting an offer amount to signing the contract.

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What to Expect During a Home Inspection

Have a professional home inspection to identify any issues with the property before closing.

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What Happens During a Home Appraisal?

A home appraisal is an important step to buying a home. Learn about the home appraisal process.

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10 Steps to Closing on a Home

From the inspection to the final paperwork, here are the steps to closing on a house.

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Tips for New Homeowners

The responsibilities of buying a home don't stop after getting the keys. Being a homeowner has its own responsibilities, like making a monthly budget, paying property taxes, and keeping up with home maintenance.
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How to Make a Household Budget

A monthly household budget can help you stay on top of your mortgage and other costs.

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Home Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners

A home maintenance checklist makes it easy to keep your home in great shape.

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How Do Property Taxes Work?

Find out how property taxes work and which exemptions you might qualify for to reduce your tax bill.

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6 Tax Benefits of Owning a Home

There are a few tax benefits of owning a home. Find out what you may qualify for.

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How Much Equity Do I Have in My Home?

Learn how much equity you have in your home and if you qualify for a home equity loan or HELOC.

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More Real Estate Tips for Homeowners

Learn tips and tricks for owning a home, from home improvement projects, life and style tips, and more.

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Save big with a loan from Rocket Mortgage

With Rocket Preferred Pricing, you can choose to get a 1% lower interest rate for the first year or up to $6,000 in closing cost credits from Rocket Mortgage.

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