Your Move, Your Plan | HomeTour IRL

Buying a home

A practical path from “maybe” to move-in. Add your own notes as you go.

Set a comfortable monthly budgetInclude taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, and savings.

Check credit and explore pre-approvalAsk lenders what documents they need and whether checking affects credit.

Choose your must-haves and trade-offsWrite down space, accessibility, commute, and location needs that fit your life.

Compare homes and tour questionsSave listings, verify details, and note what you observe in person.

Review disclosures and arrange an inspectionUse qualified professionals to evaluate condition and concerns.

Compare loan estimates and total cash to closeReview rate, APR, fees, points, term, and whether terms are locked.

Plan insurance, utilities, and closing logisticsCompare homeowners coverage, set up utilities, and confirm deadlines with your lender and closing team.

Line up the help you needCompare movers, inspectors, cleaners, and repair professionals; check credentials, insurance, written estimates, and references.

Apartment hunting

See the full picture before you apply or sign.

Choose a realistic all-in monthly rangeInclude rent, utilities, parking, internet, pet fees, and recurring charges.

List your needs and preferred locationsConsider commute, transit, accessibility, and the amenities you will use.

Tour and check the detailsTest fixtures where permitted; look for water signs, odors, noise, and upkeep.

Ask how maintenance requests workFind out how to report urgent and routine repairs and what response to expect.

Understand every fee and depositAsk what is refundable, due up front, recurring, or dependent on approval.

Read the lease before signingReview term, renewal, utilities, guests, subletting, notices, and move-out rules.

Save your records and move-in conditionKeep copies and document the unit condition at move-in.

Compare renters insuranceAsk what personal property, liability, and loss-of-use coverage includes; verify requirements with the property manager.

Plan move-in services and utilitiesCompare movers, internet, storage, cleaners, and utility setup; confirm costs and arrival windows.

Choose the right people to guide you

Compare more than a star rating. Ask clear questions, check credentials and written terms, and choose the people who communicate in a way that works for you.

What to look for in a lender

Look for clear explanations, responsive service, and loan options that fit your goals. Compare written estimates from more than one lender.

What loan programs may fit my situation, and why?

What are the rate, APR, points, lender fees, and estimated cash to close?

When can the rate change, and what could delay approval?

Who will answer questions from application through closing?

Are you licensed where I’m buying, and how can I verify that?

What to look for in a Realtor

Look for local experience, clear communication, and an approach that respects your priorities and budget.

How do you represent buyers, and what written agreement is required?

What areas and property types do you know well?

How do you handle scheduling, offers, and negotiation?

How are you paid, and what costs could I owe?

How can I verify your license and review the agreement before signing?

Your checklist is saved only in this browser on this device. This guide is general educational information, not legal, lending, tax, insurance, or real estate advice. Requirements vary by location and situation. Verify costs, credentials, availability, and terms directly with qualified professionals.

Your move, your plan.

Your next move, connected

Buying a home

Apartment hunting

Choose the right people to guide you

What to look for in a lender

What to look for in a Realtor