The Ultimate Homebuying Checklist for 2025 | Angel Calderon Realtor
🧾 The Ultimate Homebuying Checklist for 2025
Thinking of buying a home in 2025? Whether you’re a first-time buyer or jumping back into the market, the process can feel overwhelming without a clear plan.
Here’s a step-by-step homebuying checklist to keep you organized, informed, and confident from start to finish.
🔍 Phase 1: Prepare to Buy
- ✅ Check your credit score (aim for 620+ for most loans)
- ✅ Review your savings for down payment & closing costs
- ✅ Set a realistic monthly budget (include taxes, insurance, HOA)
- ✅ Make a list of must-haves vs. nice-to-haves (bedrooms, location, yard, etc.)
- ✅ Research local real estate markets (like Miami, Homestead, Kendall, Doral, etc.)
🏦 Phase 2: Get Pre-Approved
- ✅ Choose a lender or mortgage broker
- ✅ Gather documents: pay stubs, W2s, bank statements, tax returns
- ✅ Get pre-approval letter (this shows sellers you’re serious!)
- ✅ Understand your loan options: FHA, Conventional, VA, USDA
🧭 Phase 3: House Hunting
- ✅ Hire a trusted Realtor (👋 Hi, I'm Angel!)
- ✅ Tour homes online and in person
- ✅ Compare neighborhoods, commute times, schools, and safety
- ✅ Take notes & photos during showings to stay organized
- ✅ Be ready to move fast—good homes go quickly!
📝 Phase 4: Make an Offer
- ✅ Review recent comps with your Realtor
- ✅ Decide on your offer price & terms
- ✅ Submit your offer with pre-approval attached
- ✅ Be prepared to negotiate or counteroffer
🔍 Phase 5: Under Contract
- ✅ Schedule home inspection
- ✅ Negotiate any repairs or credits based on findings
- ✅ Order appraisal through your lender
- ✅ Submit final documents to underwriter
- ✅ Lock in your interest rate (if not already)
🗝️ Phase 6: Closing Day
- ✅ Do a final walkthrough 24-48 hours before closing
- ✅ Review your Closing Disclosure and wiring instructions
- ✅ Bring ID and any required checks to closing
- ✅ Sign all documents and receive the keys to your new home!
📌 Bonus Tips for 2025 Buyers
- 🧠 Use smart homebuyer tools and apps to track tasks and budget
- 📸 Don’t judge a home by its listing—some gems are poorly photographed
- 🏡 Be flexible: A home can be customized over time, but location is forever
- 📆 Consider buying earlier in the year before competition peaks in spring/summer
👋 Ready to Buy a Home in 2025?
Let Angel Calderon guide you step-by-step—from pre-approval to closing table.
✅ Bilingual Realtor | ✅ Local Market Expert | ✅ Personalized Buyer Strategy
📍 Serving Miami-Dade, Broward & beyond