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Cross Street’s buyer agents advocate for you at every step of the home search, bringing deep market knowledge, sharp negotiation skills, and a clear understanding of your goals. We simplify a complex process, uncover opportunities you might miss on your own, and protect your interests from first tour to closing. The result: a smarter, more confident path to the right home.
Understanding how to finance your first home is one of the most important steps in the buying process. At Cross Street, we simplify it by helping you determine how much you can afford, explore loan options, and plan for costs beyond your down payment. With trusted lender connections and clear guidance, you can start your home search with confidence and a well-defined budget.
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage gives you a clear sense of your buying power. A lender will review your finances, credit, and income to determine how much you qualify for. If approved, you’ll receive a pre-approval letter which signals to sellers that you’re financially prepared and ready to make a serious offer.
Before you buy, plan for these key expenses:
Typically 3.5-20% of the purchase price, depending on your loan type.
A good-faith deposit showing sellers you’re serious, which typically goes towards your down payment.
Generally 2–5% of your loan amount, covering lender fees, title insurance, and other transaction expenses.
Cross Street helps you understand these costs early on so there are no surprises along the way.
Once you’ve closed, keep in mind the ongoing expenses of owning a home:
(if applicable) for shared amenities and maintenance.
which vary by location.
to keep your home in great shape.
Take the first step toward your new home. A Cross Street broker will match you with our trusted lending partners and guide you through a smooth, stress-free pre-approval.
Once you’ve set your budget, the next step is finding a home that fits your lifestyle and goals. This stage is exciting, and it’s also where thoughtful planning pays off. Taking time to define what matters most to you will make your search more focused and less overwhelming.
With your preferred areas in mind, start narrowing down what you want inside the home itself. Consider:
Think about things like your commute, access to public transport, and school districts.
Consider the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and overall square footage.
Are you open to updates or looking for move-in ready? What is realistic considering your bandwidth and budget?
Outdoor space, parking, or features that add comfort and convenience. What’s essential for your lifestyle vs. what would be nice to have?
What is your next step?
In today’s market, multiple offers or homes selling above asking price are not uncommon, which can feel intimidating for first-time buyers. An experienced broker will help you understand local market dynamics, how quickly homes are selling, and list-to-sale price ratios, so you can confidently structure competitive offers.
Key considerations when making an offer include:
Once you’ve had an offer accepted, a home inspection will give you insight into the structure and systems of the home. Inspections can reveal maintenance needs or potential red flags, helping you make an informed decision before you finalize your purchase.
You will also need a home appraisal, which is an independent estimate of a property’s value, ordered by the lender as part of the mortgage process. In short, an appraisal assures the price you are paying reflects the properties market value.
Once your offer is accepted and you have completed your home inspection & appraisal, the home buying process enters its final stages. Key steps typically include:
Key steps typically include:
Work with your lender to complete any remaining documentation and secure your loan.
A title company verifies ownership and manages funds to ensure a smooth closing.
Sign the final paperwork, pay any remaining costs, and receive the keys to your new home!
Check out our recent articles where we share home buying tips and discuss the current market.
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Touring a home is about more than falling in love with the space — it's about evaluating it with a clear, strategic eye. From layout and location to property condition and market dynamics, here's what every buyer should be looking for on a showing.
A home inspection gives buyers a clearer understanding of a property’s condition before moving forward. Our guide walks first-time buyers through what to expect, what to look for, and how to ask the right questions with confidence.
Contact us today to learn more about what we can do to sell your property.
