10 Steps Every First-Time Homebuyer Should Know
- Greater Dayton Realtist Association
- Sep 4
- 3 min read
By GDRA Contributor • Dayton Weekly News
Your Roadmap to Homeownership in Dayton
Buying a home is one of life’s biggest milestones—and here in Dayton, it’s also a powerful step toward building generational wealth. Whether you’re just starting out or returning to the market, these 10 essential steps will help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
1. Get Ready Financially
Lenders want to see stable income and a solid work history.
Receiving Social Security or disability? Provide your award letter.
Explore down payment assistance through local programs like the HomeOwnership Center of Greater Dayton.
Also, request a credit evaluation to understand your starting point.
2. Choose the Right Real Estate Agent
You only need one agent—but it should be the right one.
Ask for referrals from people you trust and choose an agent who:
Specializes in first-time buyers
Listens to your goals
Advocates on your behalf
3. Know REALTOR® vs. REALTIST
REALTOR®: A licensed agent who’s a member of the National Association of REALTORS®, required to follow a strict code of ethics.
REALTIST: A member of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB)—the oldest Black real estate trade association, focused on Democracy in Housing and serving communities of color.
👉 Learn more at nareb.com
Choose the professional whose values align with yours.
Both support fair housing—but Realtists are rooted in equity and empowerment.
4. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
A pre-approval letter shows sellers you’re serious and financially ready.
Compare multiple options:
FHA
VA (for veterans)
USDA (for rural areas)
Rehab/renovation loans
5. Begin Your Home Search
Your agent will send listings and schedule showings.
Set your top priorities—like location, number of bedrooms, and school district—and let your budget guide your choices.
6. Make an Offer
When you find the one, your agent will help craft a strong offer.
Key parts of an offer include:
Earnest money
Inspection timelines
Home warranties
Move-in dates
Negotiation terms
7. Schedule Inspections
Although it’s an upfront buyer cost, a home inspection is essential.
It can reveal problems with:
Electrical & plumbing
Roof or foundation
Appliances or HVAC systems
8. Get the Appraisal
Your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home’s value.
If issues arise, repairs may need to be made before closing.
9. Finalize Your Financing
The underwriter reviews your file—possibly more than once.
Be ready to:
Submit documents quickly
Avoid new credit or big purchases
Stay responsive until closing
10. Secure Insurance & Close
You’ll need homeowners insurance—and it impacts your monthly payment.
Shop for competitive quotes.
Then comes the final walkthrough, closing appointment, document signing… and celebration! 🎉 You’re officially a homeowner.
The Bottom Line
The homebuying process can feel overwhelming—but when broken down into 10 simple steps, it becomes doable.
With the right preparation and trusted support, homeownership in Dayton is within reach.
Together We Are Realtist
At the heart of our mission is the rallying cry: “Together We Are Realtist.”
As Realtists, we stand for:
✊🏾 Fairness
🏛️ Equality
💎 Excellence
We honor the legacy of Democracy in Housing while lifting up our communities through education, advocacy, and access.
Check Out the 2025 Realtist Magazine
Tap the link below to explore the interactive digital magazine, packed with stories, tips, and resources for buyers and advocates alike:
Comments