Welcome to the American dream of owning your own home.  It is the most substantial purchase in most people's lives.  It is a very serious decision and one that is not to be taken lightly.  But since you have decided to take that step here is some information that will help you.

     Your first action should be to find a Realtor that you are comfortable with and trust fully, one who has your best interest in mind.

     Second, contact a lender to be pre-approved.  The Realtor you choose will be able to recommend one if you don't have one already in mind.  The lending portion of home buying can be confusing, with different fees of varying amounts.  Contacting two or three lenders is recommended, this gives you something to compare.  Some lenders offer "no origination fee," then charge you other fees with different names to make up for it.  Shop around!  Your Realtor will be able to help you in this process.  If you have credit challenges, there is usually something that can be done to make your dream of home ownership a reality.  Click here to learn more about the lending game.

     It is best to know your actual lender approved price range before you look for a house, and avoid the disappointment of finding one you love that is out of financial range.

     Third is the fun part!  Looking at homes...New homes, resale homes, land!

     After you find a home that you like, the contract will be written and upon acceptance from the sellers escrow will be opened.   Escrow is a neutral third party that handles the closing funds until certain conditions are fulfilled.  In Nevada it is usually a title company.

     During the escrow period, the loan is processed, the inspections and appraisal completed, and a walk-through is performed.  You will need to buy homeowner's insurance.  These events are on a time-line, which your Realtor will monitor and keep you informed of progress. 

     A few days before the close of escrow you and your Realtor will be going to the escrow office to sign your loan documents.  Then usually within 24 hours the lender funds the loan and the keys are yours.