Thinking about buying your first home? The process can feel like a whirlwind — fast-moving, unfamiliar, and packed with paperwork. But the truth is, when you know what to expect in those first 30 days, you’re already ahead of the game.

This guide walks you through what typically happens in the first month of your homebuying journey, step by step — so you can move forward with confidence, not confusion.

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📅 Week 1: Get Pre-Approved and Define Your Budget

This is where everything starts. Getting pre-approved isn’t just a formality — it tells you how much home you can afford, what your estimated monthly payment might look like, and shows sellers you’re serious.

Here’s what you’ll do:

• Submit a loan application (it’s easier than you think)
• Provide income, employment, and asset documents
• Review different loan types with your loan officer (FHA, VA, Conventional, etc.)
• Get a pre-approval letter — often in 24–48 hours

🔍 Pro Tip: You don’t need perfect credit or 20% down to get started. There are options for first-time buyers with as little as 3% down — or even zero-down if you qualify.

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📍 Week 2: Get Clear on What You Want

Once you know your budget, it’s time to get real about your goals.

Start thinking through:

• Location (commute, schools, neighborhood vibe)
• Type of home (condo, townhouse, single-family)
• Must-haves vs. nice-to-haves (bedrooms, yard, garage, etc.)

You’ll likely start working with a real estate agent during this week. Your lender may even have trusted referral partners who specialize in first-time buyers.

🛠 Pro Tip: Your pre-approval gives you a price ceiling — but that doesn’t mean you need to spend to the max. Leave room for taxes, insurance, and future flexibility.

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🔍 Week 3: House Hunting & Making Offers

This is when things get exciting — and real.

You’ll start touring homes (in-person or virtually), and when the right one pops up, you’ll work with your agent to make an offer. Your lender will play a key role here by updating your pre-approval and advising you on financial considerations.

If your offer is accepted:

• You’ll sign a purchase agreement
• Submit earnest money
• Kick off the full mortgage process

💡 Pro Tip: In a competitive market, being pre-approved gives you an edge. But moving fast doesn’t mean skipping steps — rely on your loan officer for guidance.

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📑 Week 4: Begin the Mortgage Process

This is the behind-the-scenes phase where your lender handles:

• Ordering the home appraisal
• Verifying your documentation
• Underwriting your loan

You’ll also:

• Lock in your interest rate
• Choose your homeowner’s insurance
• Complete disclosures and paperwork

📘 Pro Tip: Stay responsive! Fast replies to your lender and agent can help keep your closing timeline on track.

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💬 What Happens After 30 Days?

Most purchase contracts are written with a 30-day closing window — but depending on your situation, it might take a little more or a little less time. If you’re buying new construction or using special financing, that window may stretch longer.

Regardless of your timeline, the foundation you build in your first 30 days sets the tone for a smooth and successful experience.

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🧭 Final Thought: The Right Guidance Makes All the Difference

Buying your first home isn’t just about getting a loan — it’s about having a trusted team that helps you make smart, confident decisions.

At PRMI, we specialize in working with first-time buyers and offer:

• Low and zero-down loan options
• Step-by-step education throughout the process
• Fast pre-approvals and expert support

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👇 Ready to Start Your Journey?

Let’s create a plan together — no pressure, just expert advice.