Buyers' Resources and Timeline
Buying a home comes with a lot of questions.
We're here to help you with those questions
You don't need to learn everything about buying a home before you start looking. Most questions become important at a particular point in the process, and that's when you need a clear answer.
We've collected some of the questions buyers ask us most often, along with articles and videos to help you understand your options and know what to expect.
Don't see your question here? Ask us. If you're wondering about it, there's a good chance another buyer is too.
Other Questions Buyer's Have
Getting Ready to Buy
How do I know how much home I can afford?
Do I need 20% down?
What if I'm worried about my credit?
When should I get pre-approved?
Looking at Homes
When should I start looking at homes?
What does the process look like? (video)
How do I decide which towns to consider? (map)
How are the schools?
Should I only look at new listings?
What should I pay attention to when touring a home?
Should I consider a home that needs work?
Making an Offer
Does the highest offer always win? (video)
What are deposits, and when are they due?
What are contingencies?
How does my buyer's agent get paid?
After Your Offer Is Accepted
What happens after my offer is accepted?
What does a home inspection actually tell me? (sample report) | Do I have to get an inspection? (video)
What happens if the inspection finds something?
What is the Purchase & Sale Agreement?
What happens between the P&S and closing?
Fraud - A Must Read!
Property Questions- these questions and more answered by our Consumer Guides Handbook:
What should I know about buying a home with a septic system?
What should I know about a private well?
What is radon?
What should I know about lead paint?
What is a crumbling concrete/pyrrhotite foundation?
What should I know about flood zones?
Getting to Closing
Can I buy anything for my new home before we close?
What happens at the final walk-through?
When will I know exactly how much money I need for closing? What is a Closing Disclosure?
What happens on closing day? When do I get the keys?
Massachusetts MLS Property Info Network (MLSPIN) - The property listing data and information set forth herein were provided to MLS Property Information Network, Inc. from third party sources, including sellers, lessors and public records, and were compiled by MLS Property Information Network, Inc. The property listing data and information are for the personal, non commercial use of consumers having a good faith interest in purchasing or leasing listed properties of the type displayed to them and
