Start by assessing your current and future needs. Key factors include:

• Number of adults and children in the household
• Space for guests or extended family
• Home office, gym, or workshop requirements
• Outdoor space, garage, or storage needs

This helps establish a realistic minimum size and layout, which you can adjust based on budget and lifestyle goals.

Get pre-approved for a mortgage early—it strengthens your offers in Boston’s competitive market. Lenders evaluate income, credit, assets, and debt to determine your borrowing power.

Beyond the bank’s approval, consider your comfort level:

• Monthly payment as a percentage of take-home pay
• Future expenses (property taxes, maintenance, HOA fees)
• Trade-offs between home size/location and financial flexibility

Use online mortgage calculators for initial estimates, then consult lenders for accurate pre-approval.

Create a detailed wishlist covering the home, neighborhood, and location:

• Style (colonial, contemporary, condo, etc.) and condition
• Bedrooms/bathrooms, yard, parking
• School quality, commute time, public transit access
• Safety, amenities (shops, parks, restaurants), and community vibe

Distinguish between non-negotiables and nice-to-haves to stay focused during your search.

Begin online to browse listings, photos, and virtual tours without pressure. Save favorites and note patterns in what you like.

When ready for in-person viewings:

• Drive the neighborhood at different times of day
• Use a standardized checklist (floor plan, storage, natural light, mechanical systems)
• Look past staging—focus on layout, condition, and potential

In Greater Boston’s fast-moving market, strong offers stand out. Work with your agent to include:

• Competitive price (possibly above asking in multiple-offer situations)
• Flexible closing timeline
• Minimal contingencies (while protecting yourself)
• Pre-approval letter and proof of funds
• Personal letter to the seller (when appropriate)

Experienced agents know local norms and can guide strategy.

A thorough inspection is critical, especially for Boston’s older housing stock. Look for issues like:

• Structural concerns, roof condition, foundation
• Plumbing, electrical, HVAC systems
• Water damage, mold, pest activity

Choose an independent inspector (not solely from your agent’s list) for unbiased results. Use findings to negotiate repairs or price adjustments.

Finalize your mortgage with the best rate and terms. Shop multiple lenders or use a broker.

The lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home’s value supports the loan amount. Address any appraisal issues promptly.

Hire a real estate attorney (standard in Massachusetts) to review documents and represent your interests.

Complete final walk-through to verify condition and that agreed repairs are done. Bring required funds (certified check or wire) and ID to closing.

Congratulations—you’re a homeowner! Before settling in:

• Change all exterior locks
• Deep clean or hire professionals
• Service HVAC system
• Update smoke/CO detectors
• Forward mail and update utilities

Welcome home!