- Start with a lender conversation and a preapproval so you know your budget before you tour.
- Ask your lender about first-time buyer and down payment assistance programs in Minnesota.
- Your agent will review Minnesota’s agency relationship disclosure with you, and you’ll sign a buyer representation agreement before touring.
- After your offer is accepted, plan for an inspection, an appraisal, and a final walkthrough before closing.
Buying your first home is a big decision, and the process can feel like a lot of unfamiliar steps at once. Here's how it works in the Twin Cities, in the order it usually happens. I walk every client through each step personally, so you'll always know what's next.
1. Get clear on your budget
Before you look at homes, talk to a lender. A preapproval tells you how much you can borrow, and it shows sellers you're ready to buy. Your monthly payment includes more than the loan: property taxes, homeowners insurance, and any HOA dues all count. Pick a payment you're comfortable with, not just the maximum you qualify for.
Not sure who to call? My preferred vendors page lists lenders I trust.
2. Ask about first-time buyer programs
Minnesota Housing offers loan and down payment assistance programs for first-time buyers, and some cities and counties have their own. Eligibility usually depends on income, purchase price, and where you're buying. Your lender can tell you which programs you qualify for.
3. Choose your agent
In Minnesota, agents explain the different types of agency relationships before working with you. You can read the agency relationship disclosure here. Before we tour homes together, we'll sign a buyer representation agreement that spells out how I'll represent you and how I'm paid. Ask questions. A good agent will be glad to explain every line.
4. Make your list and start touring
Split your list into must-haves and nice-to-haves: bedrooms, commute, yard, garage, school district, home style. Then we'll set up a search so you see new listings as soon as they hit the market. You can also browse on my MLS search or fill out my Home Buyer Questionnaire so I can start looking for you.
Still deciding where to live? Start with my West Metro neighborhood guide.
5. Write a strong offer
When you find the one, I'll pull recent comparable sales so your offer is based on data, not guesswork. Price is only one part of an offer. Earnest money, contingencies, and closing date all matter to sellers, and we'll set those based on the home and the market.
6. Inspection, appraisal, and point-of-sale reports
After your offer is accepted, schedule a home inspection right away. If anything comes up, we can negotiate repairs or a credit. Your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home's value. If you're buying in Minneapolis, the seller will have a Truth-in-Sale of Housing evaluation, and some other cities have their own point-of-sale requirements. I'll make sure you see every report.
7. Final walkthrough and closing
Right before closing, we'll walk through the home to confirm it's in the condition we agreed to. At closing you'll sign your loan and title documents, and then you get the keys. After that, I'm still a call away for anything you need.
Frequently asked questions
How much do I need for a down payment in Minnesota?
It depends on the loan. Some loan programs allow as little as 3 to 3.5 percent down, VA and USDA loans can allow zero down for eligible buyers, and down payment assistance can cover part of the cost. You’ll also need funds for closing costs, inspections, and earnest money. Your lender can give you exact numbers.
How long does it take to buy a house?
Searching can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Once your offer is accepted, closing typically takes about 30 to 45 days with a mortgage, depending on the lender and the contract.
Do I have to pay my buyer’s agent?
How your agent is paid is negotiable and is written into your buyer representation agreement. In some sales, the seller offers to cover part or all of it. I’ll explain your options before you sign anything.
What is a Truth-in-Sale of Housing evaluation?
It’s a point-of-sale evaluation Minneapolis requires sellers to complete before listing a home. It notes certain conditions in the home, and some items may need to be repaired. It’s useful information for buyers, but it doesn’t replace your own home inspection.
This article is general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Requirements vary by city and change over time, so confirm details for your situation.
Ready to start your home search?
Book a free call and we’ll map out your budget, timeline, and must-haves together.
