Your Complete Homebuying Checklist: From First Steps to Final Closing
Buying a home is a meaningful milestone, and getting started is easier than you think. This guide walks you through everything from knowing key terms to what to expect at closing so you feel confident from the very beginning.
Understand the Basics: Homebuyer Glossary
The homebuying process introduces a lot of new terminology, but we’ve got you covered. Our Homebuyer Glossary explains essential terms related to home building, financing, and buying so you'll feel prepared and empowered throughout your journey.
Prepare Your Finances for Buying a Home
Buying a home starts with understanding where you stand financially. From saving for upfront costs to understanding what lenders consider, organizing your finances early can help you move forward with clarity. We’ve compiled some resources to help.
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage with Confidence
Getting pre-approved is an essential early step in the homebuying process. It gives you a clear understanding of how much you can comfortably afford, helping you narrow your search to homes that fit your needs and financial plan.
Meritage Homes partners with MTH Mortgage, which offers 24/7 digital applications to make getting started simple and convenient whenever you're ready.
Find the Right Real Estate Agent
Having a real estate agent by your side provides a smoother, more rewarding homebuying experience. An agent brings valuable market insights, simplifies paperwork and scheduling, and offers expert guidance from start to finish. We call it the Agent Advantage because every homebuyer deserves a trusted advocate.
Sold on finding an agent? Use our Agent Finder to connect with an experienced local real estate agent.
Choose the Home That Fits Your Lifestyle
From must-haves to Move-In Ready convenience, we’re here to help you identify what matters most in your next home. Create your ideal home checklist and feel more at home throughout your search.
Meet the Team That Supports Your Purchase
When it comes time to finalize your purchase, having the right team in place can make the process smoother. Meritage Homes proudly partners with trusted affiliates like MTH Mortgage, Carefree Title, and Meritage Homes Insurance Agency to help guide you through each stage. While you’re welcome to work with the providers of your choice, these resources are here to assist you at every stage.
Select Your Home and Sign Your Contract
You’ve found the one! Work with your agent and Meritage Sales Counselor to dial in the details. On contract signing day, you officially agree to purchase your new home by signing the purchase agreement, which outlines the price, terms, and timeline. You’ll typically submit your earnest money deposit, which shows your commitment and secures the home while final financing and closing preparations begin. Once signed, the builder and lender begin coordinating next steps, including loan processing, inspections, and preparing for your closing date.
Know What to Expect During Closing
Closing day is when you officially take ownership of your new home by signing final documents and completing payment. You’ll review and sign your mortgage paperwork, pay any remaining closing costs, and receive the keys to your home. Once everything is finalized, the title is transferred to your name, and you’re ready to move in and begin your new chapter.
Get Ready to Move In
Your new home is finished, and the big day is here. From packing up to settling in, these helpful tips make moving more manageable and even a little fun!
Make It Yours with Styling Tips
Your new home is thoughtfully designed and Move-In Ready, complete with elegant finishes and energy-efficient features. All it needs now is your personal touch. Get inspired with styling tips that help you make your space truly feel like home.
Understand the Basics: Homebuyer Glossary
The homebuying process introduces a lot of new terminology, but we’ve got you covered. Our Homebuyer Glossary explains essential terms related to home building, financing, and buying so you'll feel prepared and empowered throughout your journey.
Prepare Your Finances for Buying a Home
Buying a home starts with understanding where you stand financially. From saving for upfront costs to understanding what lenders consider, organizing your finances early can help you move forward with clarity. We’ve compiled some resources to help.
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage with Confidence
Getting pre-approved is an essential early step in the homebuying process. It gives you a clear understanding of how much you can comfortably afford, helping you narrow your search to homes that fit your needs and financial plan.
Meritage Homes partners with MTH Mortgage, which offers 24/7 digital applications to make getting started simple and convenient whenever you're ready.
Find the Right Real Estate Agent
Having a real estate agent by your side provides a smoother, more rewarding homebuying experience. An agent brings valuable market insights, simplifies paperwork and scheduling, and offers expert guidance from start to finish. We call it the Agent Advantage because every homebuyer deserves a trusted advocate.
Sold on finding an agent? Use our Agent Finder to connect with an experienced local real estate agent.
Choose the Home That Fits Your Lifestyle
From must-haves to Move-In Ready convenience, we’re here to help you identify what matters most in your next home. Create your ideal home checklist and feel more at home throughout your search.
Meet the Team That Supports Your Purchase
When it comes time to finalize your purchase, having the right team in place can make the process smoother. Meritage Homes proudly partners with trusted affiliates like MTH Mortgage, Carefree Title, and Meritage Homes Insurance Agency to help guide you through each stage. While you’re welcome to work with the providers of your choice, these resources are here to assist you at every stage.
Select Your Home and Sign Your Contract
You’ve found the one! Work with your agent and Meritage Sales Counselor to dial in the details. On contract signing day, you officially agree to purchase your new home by signing the purchase agreement, which outlines the price, terms, and timeline. You’ll typically submit your earnest money deposit, which shows your commitment and secures the home while final financing and closing preparations begin. Once signed, the builder and lender begin coordinating next steps, including loan processing, inspections, and preparing for your closing date.
Know What to Expect During Closing
Closing day is when you officially take ownership of your new home by signing final documents and completing payment. You’ll review and sign your mortgage paperwork, pay any remaining closing costs, and receive the keys to your home. Once everything is finalized, the title is transferred to your name, and you’re ready to move in and begin your new chapter.
Get Ready to Move In
Your new home is finished, and the big day is here. From packing up to settling in, these helpful tips make moving more manageable and even a little fun!
Make It Yours with Styling Tips
Your new home is thoughtfully designed and Move-In Ready, complete with elegant finishes and energy-efficient features. All it needs now is your personal touch. Get inspired with styling tips that help you make your space truly feel like home.
You’ve taken all the key steps, from setting a budget to getting pre-approved and preparing for closing. With the proper guidance, the process becomes not just manageable but meaningful. We’re proud to support you along the way and can’t wait to welcome you home. When you're ready, Meritage Homes is here to help you experience Life. Built. Better.