Home buying is likely the largest purchase most veterans will make in their lives. It’s exciting, but there are many details and documents in the process. Follow these steps to find the best home match for you.

1. Prepare Your Finances

Ideally, you’ve been saving and budgeting for a mortgage down payment. Check your credit score, since it’s vital during the loan pre-approval process. Pay off any outstanding debts and credit cards if possible. The lender should approve a maximum amount for a mortgage. Aim for a home price that allows you to comfortably pay your mortgage as well as living expenses.

2. Secure Loan Pre-Approval and Find the Right VA-Backed Loan

According to the Veterans Administration, you can get pre-approved for a VA-backed loan, which has several perks for a veteran homebuyer:

• No down payment
• Better terms and interest rates
• No penalty for early pay-off

Apply through the VA for a Certificate of Eligibility proving you are a veteran homebuyer qualifying for a VA loan. After you receive the COE, research banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies to compare mortgage interest rates and fees to find the best loan choice.

3. Find a Real Estate Agent and Start Your Home Search

Ask your friends and family for realtor referrals. You can also get in touch with the pros at the Knowledge Base Real Estate Group to get the process started. Decide what home features are most important to you. Consider the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you will have as well as the size of your property. How far do you want to commute to your job?

Get to know neighborhoods and find out what you can afford to buy in those areas. You can find school district information and other area statistics such as resident demographics and crime rates on real estate websites.

4. Sign Purchase Agreement, and Schedule the Inspection and Appraisal

Once you have found your dream home and the buyer accepts your offer, congratulations! Sign a purchase agreement with a “VA Escape Clause,” which protects you if you need to void the contract. Next, schedule a home inspection to ensure there are no hidden problems that will cause expensive repairs in the future. Also hire a VA-approved appraiser to estimate the value of the home.

5. Attend Closing

Three days before closing, you should receive the closing disclosure, which lists all loan terms, fees, closing costs, and estimated mortgage payments. At closing, you will sign all the necessary documents with the seller, lender, title company, and your agent.

6. Move In and Unpack

Homelight recommends tidying up the kitchen first. You’ll want to cook meals and have a place to sit and eat. Then you can clean other areas of the house before you unpack your belongings.

While you unpack, make sure your new home is secure, including changing the locks. Another consideration for your security is purchasing home warranty insurance for appliances and more. This will protect you from large out of pocket repair expenses on things like plumbing, HVAC, and your home electronics.

Once you’re settled in, you need to officially change your address with the post office. Also, transfer all utilities to your residence.

The home buying process can seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance, you can find the best home within your budget. Now, you can relax, decorate however you please, and enjoy the pride of homeownership.