What to Expect During a Home Purchase: A Step-by-Step Guide

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, and it can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time. Understanding the process upfront can make everything go more smoothly and reduce stress. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect when purchasing a home in Missouri.

HOME BUYERS / SELLERS

Shawn Pingleton - Your Southwest Missouri Realtor

3/20/20252 min read

white and red wooden house miniature on brown table

Step 1: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Before you start house hunting, it’s essential to know your budget. A mortgage pre-approval:

✔️ Shows sellers you’re a serious buyer
✔️ Gives you a clear idea of your price range
✔️ Helps you understand your loan options

Pro Tip: Work with a local lender who understands Missouri’s housing market and can help you navigate financing options like VA, FHA, and conventional loans.

Step 2: Find the Right Home

Once you have a budget, it’s time to start looking. Consider:

🏡 Location: Proximity to work, schools, and amenities
🏡 Size & Layout: Does it fit your current and future needs?
🏡 Condition: Will you need to budget for repairs or renovations?
🏡 Neighborhood Features: What’s important to you—quiet streets, nearby parks, or shopping?

Pro Tip: If you’re planning to buy land and build, pay close attention to zoning laws, utilities, and accessibility.

Step 3: Make an Offer

Once you find the right home, your favorite real estate agent (HINT: I'm your favorite real estate agent) will help you submit a competitive offer. This includes:

✔️ The purchase price you’re offering
✔️ Any contingencies (home inspection, financing, etc.)
✔️ A proposed closing date

Pro Tip: In a competitive market like Branson, having a pre-approval and a strong offer can make a big difference.

Step 4: Home Inspection & Appraisal

After your offer is accepted, the home inspection and appraisal come next.

🔎 Home Inspection: An inspector checks the property for issues like foundation problems, roof damage, plumbing leaks, and more. If significant problems arise, you can negotiate repairs or reconsider your offer.

💰 Appraisal: Your lender requires an appraisal to ensure the home’s value matches the purchase price. If it comes in low, you may need to renegotiate with the seller.

Pro Tip: Never skip the inspection! Small problems can turn into expensive repairs down the road.

Step 5: Finalizing the Loan & Closing

Once the inspection and appraisal are done, you’ll move toward closing. This includes:

✔️ Final loan approval – Your lender verifies your finances one last time
✔️ Title search & insurance – Ensures there are no ownership disputes
✔️ Final walkthrough – A last check to confirm the home is in agreed-upon condition

At closing, you’ll sign all the paperwork, pay closing costs, and receive the keys to your new home.

Shawn's Final Thoughts

Buying a home doesn’t have to be stressful when you understand the process and have our team by your side. Whether you’re looking for a primary residence, vacation home, land, or investment property, being prepared will help you navigate the journey with confidence.