01
Check Your Finances
- Review your credit score — 580+ for FHA and VA, 620+ for conventional, 680+ for physician loans
- Calculate your debt-to-income ratio (aim for under 43%)
- Determine how much you can comfortably afford monthly (principal, interest, taxes, insurance)
- Save for a down payment: 3.5% for FHA, 0% for VA, as low as 1–3% for conventional
- Build an emergency fund of 3–6 months' expenses separate from your down payment
02
Get Pre-Approved
- Gather documents: W-2s, tax returns, bank statements, pay stubs
- Compare lenders — Wynnmore connects you with trusted partners for VA, FHA, conventional, and physician loans
- Get a pre-approval letter (not just pre-qualification) for serious offer positioning
- Understand your rate lock options and timeline
03
Define Your Criteria
- Must-haves vs. nice-to-haves — bedrooms, bathrooms, garage, yard, HOA
- Preferred neighborhoods and commute tolerance
- New construction vs. existing home
- School district priorities if applicable
- Future plans: 5-year vs. forever home affects your strategy
04
Search & Tour Homes
- Your Wynnmore agent will curate listings matched to your criteria
- Tour in person — photos don't capture noise, natural light, or neighborhood feel
- Take notes and photos during each tour
- Ask about property history, HOA rules, and pending assessments
- Evaluate potential for appreciation based on market trends
05
Make an Offer
- Your agent will run a Comparative Market Analysis to determine fair offer price
- Structure your offer: price, earnest money, contingencies, closing date
- Include an escalation clause in competitive markets
- Be prepared to negotiate — the first counter is expected
06
Due Diligence Period
- Schedule a professional home inspection (budget $300–$500)
- Review the inspection report and negotiate repairs or credits
- Order a termite/WDO inspection (often required in Florida)
- The lender will order an appraisal to verify property value
- Review HOA documents, covenants, and financial health
- Purchase homeowner's insurance and flood insurance if in a flood zone
07
Close on Your New Home
- Review the Closing Disclosure at least 3 days before closing
- Wire your closing funds (never send to an unverified account)
- Conduct a final walkthrough 24–48 hours before closing
- Sign closing documents at the title company
- Receive the keys and celebrate — you're a homeowner!
Residential
Loan Types at a Glance
Wynnmore connects you with trusted lenders who offer all major loan programs.
| Loan Type | Down Payment | Min. Credit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | 1–3% | 620+ | Buyers with strong credit and savings |
| FHA | 3.5% | 580+ | Primary residence buyers, lower down payments |
| VA | 0% | 580+ | Veterans and active-duty military |
| USDA | 0% | 640+ | Buyers in zoned rural areas |
| Physician | 0–5% | 680+ | Medical professionals |