Buyer Steps

Buyer's Guide

Deciding to Buy
Deciding to Buy
Preparing to Buy
Preparing to Buy
Choose a Real Estate Agent
Choose a Real Estate Agent
Time to go Shopping
Time to go Shopping
Escrow Inspections and Appraisals
Escrow & Appraisals
Moving In
Moving In

Purchasing a property is likely the biggest financial decision you will make. This process should be informed and intentional.

Why Do You Want To Buy?

Maybe you’re tired of renting, need more space, or want to invest. Your “why” drives the process.

Has Your Income Grown?

Increased income or savings can make this the right time to start building equity.

Build Your Green File

Collect documents like bank statements, tax returns, and pay stubs to prepare for financing.

Check Your Credit

A good credit score improves your loan terms. We can help connect you with a lender.

Hiring a professional agent ensures you're protected legally and competitively.

  • Ask about experience and local knowledge.
  • Choose someone responsive and proactive.

Let’s tour homes that align with your needs and budget. We'll help evaluate each one with clarity.

Once under contract, we’ll handle inspections, appraisals, title, and escrow to ensure a smooth close.

You’ve made it! We’ll help with final details and celebrate your big move-in day.

Buyer Guide – Explore the Process
Home Living Room Before Staging

Explore the Process

Every Buyer’s Journey Is Unique—We Help You Move Smarter.

Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading, or investing, we start with a strategy tailored to your goals. From financing and home tours to writing a winning offer, we’ll guide you at every step—with expert insight and local knowledge that gives you the edge.

Our goal is to make the process feel clear and manageable, so you can move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

Your Guide to Buying a Home in Utah

Whether you're a first-time buyer or leveling up to your next home, our expert-crafted guide gives you clarity, confidence, and a smart game plan from start to keys.

Sign up to download your free copy—straight to your inbox.

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Ly Realty Buyer's Guide

Buy Smart. Buy Confidently. Buy with Us.

Full Market
Access

Full Market Access

We give you complete access to all available homes on the MLS, updated in real time. With the right search criteria, expert insights, and personalized recommendations, we help you find the perfect home quickly and confidently in today’s market.

Off-Market / Exclusive Buying Opportunities

Exclusive Listings

Looking for an edge or more privacy? We connect you with a network of sellers, agents, and exclusive listings not publicly available. These off-market opportunities offer flexible options and less competition, helping you secure your ideal home faster.

Buy & Sell Coordination Strategy

Buy and Sell Strategy

Need to buy your next home while selling your current one? We create a plan that aligns both transactions smoothly, helping you leverage your equity and avoid the stress of moving twice or carrying two mortgages. Our strategies ensure a seamless transition tailored to your timeline and financial goals.

FAQs
1. What’s the first step in buying a home?
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The first step is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This helps you understand your budget and shows sellers you’re a serious buyer. A lender will evaluate your financial information to determine how much you can borrow.
2. How much home can I afford?
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Affordability depends on your income, debts, credit score, and how much you can put down. A good rule of thumb: your monthly mortgage payment should be no more than 28% of your gross income.
3. What are closing costs, and how much should I expect to pay?
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Closing costs are fees related to finalizing your home purchase—things like title insurance, appraisals, and attorney fees. These typically range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price.
4. What is earnest money, and is it refundable?
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Earnest money is a good-faith deposit you submit with your offer to show you’re serious. It’s usually applied toward your down payment or closing costs. If the deal falls through due to contingencies, you may be able to get it back.
5. Should I get a home inspection?
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Yes—always. A home inspection helps you understand the condition of the property and uncover any potential issues before you commit. It can save you from costly surprises down the road.
6. How long does the home buying process take?
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On average, 30 to 45 days from accepted offer to closing. However, factors like loan approval, inspections, and appraisals can affect the timeline.
7. What are contingencies in a real estate contract?
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Contingencies are conditions that must be met for the sale to proceed. Common ones include financing, appraisal, and inspection. If they’re not satisfied, you can usually back out without penalty.
8. Do I need a real estate agent to buy a home?
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You’re not required to use one, but it’s highly recommended. A trusted agent offers expertise, negotiates on your behalf, and guides you through the process—from search to closing—at no direct cost to you.
9. What’s the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?
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Pre-qualification is an estimate based on self-reported info. Pre-approval is more thorough—a lender verifies your finances and credit to provide a conditional loan amount. Pre-approval carries more weight with sellers.
10. When do I get the keys to my new home?
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You’ll typically receive the keys at closing—once all paperwork is signed and funds are transferred. In some cases, the seller may request extra time to move out, which would be arranged ahead of time.

WORK WITH US

Partner with our expert team to turn your real estate goals into reality. Enjoy personalized service and dedicated guidance throughout every step for exceptional results.