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By David Delgado | Freedom Choice Lending
Buying a home is one of the most exciting journeys you’ll ever take — but for many first-time buyers, the process feels overwhelming. The good news? It doesn’t have to be. When you understand the steps, the timeline becomes clear, predictable, and empowering.
Here’s your complete guide to the home buying timeline — from that first moment you start dreaming to the day you finally move in.
1. Dreaming & Planning (1–4 Weeks)
Every home journey begins the same way: with a dream.
This is the time to imagine your ideal life — your home style, neighborhood, monthly payment comfort zone, and long-term goals.
What to do during this stage:
- Explore neighborhoods and price ranges
- Evaluate your budget
- Decide your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves
- Get familiar with current interest rates and market conditions
Pro Tip:
Even if you’re just “thinking about it,” talk to a mortgage professional early. I can run numbers, explain payment options, and show you exactly what’s realistic.
2. Getting Pre-Approved (24–48 Hours)
This is where the dream becomes a plan.
A pre-approval is the #1 most important step before you begin shopping for a home. It tells you how much you can afford and shows sellers you’re a serious buyer.
What we’ll do together:
- Review your income, credit, and documents
- Discuss loan options (FHA, conventional, VA, down-payment assistance, etc.)
- Lock in your budget and payment expectations
Why pre-approval matters:
- You stand out against other buyers
- You avoid falling in love with homes outside your budget
- You can make confident, fast offers when the right home appears
3. House Hunting (2–12+ Weeks)
Now the fun begins!
Once pre-approved, you and your agent can confidently shop within the right price range.
What happens during this stage:
- Touring homes
- Refining your preferences
- Comparing price, location, and condition
- Reviewing comps and market data
Pro Tip:
Inventory moves fast in many markets. Homes that fit well-priced criteria often go pending within days — and being fully pre-approved puts you ahead of the competition.
4. Making an Offer & Getting Accepted (1–7 Days)
When you find the one, it’s time to write an offer.
Your agent will help structure a competitive offer, and I’ll provide updated loan numbers so you feel confident.
What happens next:
- Offer submitted
- Negotiations (if needed)
- Seller acceptance
Once accepted, escrow officially begins.
5. Escrow & Loan Process (21–30 Days on Average)
This is the most important phase — and where Freedom Choice Lending helps you move smoothly and quickly.
During escrow, several things happen at once:
Home Inspection (1–7 Days)
A licensed inspector checks the home’s condition and helps you understand repairs or concerns.
Appraisal (7–14 Days)
The lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home’s value supports your loan.
Loan Underwriting (7–21 Days)
My team and I:
- Verify income, assets, and credit
- Review the appraisal and title
- Clear conditions
- Issue your Clear to Close
You’ll also lock your rate (if you haven’t already) and sign final disclosures.
6. Closing & Signing Docs (3–5 Days)
Once the loan is approved and everything is verified, it’s time for the finish line.
What you’ll do:
- Review your Closing Disclosure
- Sign loan documents
- Wire funds for your down payment + closing costs
- Final walk-through of the home
Once everything is complete, the loan funds and the county records the home in your name.
7. Moving In (1–14 Days)
Congratulations — you’re a homeowner!
You receive your keys, take your first photos in front of your new house, and start settling into your next chapter.
Pro Tip:
Take advantage of homeowner benefits early — set up home warranties, change locks, and schedule utilities before moving day.
How Long Does the Entire Timeline Take?
On average:
45–90 days from dreaming to moving in.
Every buyer’s journey is unique, but with the right team and preparation, the process becomes smoother, faster, and far less stressful.
Thinking About Buying? Let’s Build Your Plan.
Whether you’re six months away or ready today, getting clarity early makes all the difference. As your mortgage professional at Freedom Choice Lending, my job is to make the process simple, transparent, and aligned with your goals.
Direct Line (562) 281-6163
Main Office (866) 587-6927
David Delgado – NMLS #349079
Presiden/CEO
Freedom Choice Lending
NMLS #1998153
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