Back to Mike Walker
Free Download — No Cost, No Obligation
Complete Home Buyer Checklist
A step-by-step guide covering everything from financial preparation to closing day. Don't miss a single step on your path to homeownership.
6 phases from prep to closing
40+ actionable checklist items
Document preparation guide
Timeline and milestone tracker
Tips from Mike Walker's experience
Mike Walker
Regional Manager · NMLS #1595456
GFS Home Loans
Instant Access — 100% Free
Get Your Free Checklist
Checklist Preview
Your Complete Home Buying Roadmap
Phase 1: Financial Preparation
- Check and review your credit report (all 3 bureaus)
- Dispute any errors on your credit report
- Pay down credit card balances below 30% utilization
- Avoid opening new credit accounts
- + 3 more items in full guide...
Phase 2: Getting Pre-Approved
- Gather last 2 years of tax returns (W-2s or 1099s)
- Collect last 30 days of pay stubs
- Get 2–3 months of bank statements
- Document all assets (investments, retirement accounts)
- + 3 more items in full guide...
Phase 3: House Hunting
- Define your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves
- Research neighborhoods and school districts
- Work with a licensed real estate agent
- Attend open houses and schedule showings
- + 3 more items in full guide...
Phase 4: Making an Offer
- Review comparable sales with your agent
- Determine your offer price
- Include contingencies (inspection, financing, appraisal)
- Submit earnest money deposit
- + 2 more items in full guide...
Phase 5: Under Contract
- Schedule home inspection within contingency period
- Review inspection report carefully
- Negotiate repairs or price reduction if needed
- Complete mortgage application with Mike
- + 3 more items in full guide...
Phase 6: Closing Day
- Do a final walk-through of the property
- Review Closing Disclosure (3 days before closing)
- Bring certified funds or wire transfer for closing costs
- Bring government-issued photo ID
- + 3 more items in full guide...
"The home buying process can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers. That's why I created this checklist — so you know exactly what to expect at every step. My job is to make sure you feel confident and informed from the very first conversation to the moment you get your keys."
Mike Walker
Regional Manager · GFS Home Loans · NMLS #1595456
Ready to Start Your Home Buying Journey?
Mike is ready to guide you through every step — from pre-approval to closing day.
Mike Walker · NMLS #1595456 · GFS Home Loans · Equal Housing Lender