First-Time Homebuyer? Here’s Exactly How to Get Started

Buying a Home in Gaston, Mecklenburg or a surrounding county? You’re in the Right Place.

If you’re thinking about buying your first home and your first thought is “Where do I even start?” — you are 100% not alone. I work with buyers across Gaston, Mecklenburg, and surrounding counties who feel exactly the same way.

Maybe you’ve been browsing Zillow. Maybe a friend just bought a house. Maybe you’re just tired of renting. Whatever led you here — welcome. This guide is your friendly, step-by-step overview of what to expect when you are brand new to the home buying process.

Step 1: Start With an Agent Who Works for You

Before you fall in love with a listing or start calling around for showings, it’s a smart move to connect with a local real estate agent who can guide you through the process from day one.

Here’s why:
Buying a home is a legal, financial, and emotional process — and you deserve a professional in your corner who represents your interests.

➡️ In some situations, the seller may offer compensation for buyer agent services. In other cases, the buyer may need to pay for their agent directly. We’ll talk through what to expect in your price range and how to plan for that from the start.

Step 2: Talk With a Lender and Get Pre-Approved

Getting pre-approved gives you four huge advantages:

1. You’ll know how much home you can realistically afford.

2. You’ll be ready to act fast when you find the right home.

3. Sellers will take your offer more seriously.

4. We can’t start looking at houses without it.

Not sure where to go? I work closely with trusted local lenders and can connect you with someone great who will treat you with respect and answer your questions clearly.

Step 3: Get Clear on Your Priorities

This is where we start to shape your search.
Think about:

• What towns or neighborhoods feel like home? Belmont? Gastonia? Mount Holly? Steele Creek?

• How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need?

• Is a yard important? Do you work from home and need office space?

• Are you looking for move-in ready or something with a little DIY potential?

You don’t need to know it all — just share what’s important, and I’ll help narrow your options.

Step 4: Start Touring Homes

Now we start seeing homes in person. This is a great way to learn what feels right for you. You might love open floor plans more than you thought. Or discover you really want a bigger backyard.

I’ll guide you through showings, ask the right questions, and point out things you might miss — like potential repair concerns, neighborhood details, or resale considerations.

Step 5: Making an Offer

When you’re ready to make an offer, I’ll walk you through:

• How to make your offer competitive

• What contingencies to include

• How to handle multiple-offer situations (which can happen!)

This step is both exciting and strategic and I’ll make sure you understand everything we’re doing.

Step 6: Inspections, Appraisal & Final Loan Approval

Once your offer is accepted, the next few steps include:

• A home inspection to check the property’s condition

• An appraisal to confirm the home’s value

• Final steps with your lender to secure your mortgage

This is the most “behind-the-scenes” part of the process — but I’ll be tracking every detail and keeping you updated.

Step 7: Closing Day 🎉

This is it! You’ll sign documents, transfer funds, and officially become a homeowner. And yes — I’ll be there celebrating with you when you get the keys!

You Don’t Have to Know Everything — You Just Have to Start

If you’re even thinking about buying a home, whether that’s next month or next year, I’m here to help. No pressure, no sales pitch, just honest advice and clear answers.

📩 Reach out to me anytime to start the conversation. I have a detailed Buyer’s Guide book that I can share with you at our consultation meeting which has all the details at your fingertips.
Whether it’s your first home or your first step toward one, I’d love to be part of your journey. ➡️sarah.wiley@cbcarverpressley.com