Your Step-by-Step Path to Homeownership 🏡 With Kim Idel, Your Home Girl

Hey there, future homeowners! It’s Kim Idel, Your Home Girl, and I’m so excited to walk you through something that can feel a little overwhelming at first — the path to owning your very own home.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or just need a refresher, understanding each step can help reduce stress and boost confidence. So let’s break it down together — step by step — Mid-Missouri style.

🗺️ Step 1: Let’s Chat About Your Needs

We’ll start by getting to know you — your budget, your goals, your must-haves and dealbreakers. Then we’ll get you connected with a trusted local lender to explore your financing options and get you pre-approved.

💰 Step 2: Set Your Budget

Before we go house-hunting, we’ll work with your lender to determine your budget. This helps us search smarter and avoid falling for homes outside your comfort zone.

💡 Pro Tip: Make a list of “needs” vs. “wants” so we can narrow in on what matters most.

🏠 Step 3: The Search Begins!

Once we’re pre-approved and have your wish list in hand, it’s time to start touring homes. I’ll help you navigate the market, ask the right questions, and guide you toward homes that truly fit your lifestyle and financial goals.

✍️ Step 4: Make an Offer

Found “the one”? We’ll work together to negotiate a strong offer, review terms, sign the paperwork, and submit your earnest money.

👉 What’s Earnest Money?Think of it as a good-faith deposit — a small amount of money (usually 1–2% of the purchase price) that shows you’re serious about buying the home. It’s held in escrow and later applied toward your closing costs or down payment.

🔍 Step 5: Appraisal & Inspections

Once your offer is accepted, we move into due diligence. This includes two big steps:

✅ Home Inspection – A licensed professional checks the condition of the home, including the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and more.👉 This helps uncover any potential issues before you commit.

✅ Appraisal – Ordered by your lender to determine the home's fair market value.👉 It protects you and your lender from overpaying for a property.

If we find anything concerning, we’ll negotiate repairs, price adjustments, or credits to make sure you’re protected.

🔁 Step 6: The Final Walkthrough

Right before closing, we’ll do a final walkthrough to confirm that the home is in the same condition as agreed — no new issues, repairs are done, and it’s ready for move-in!

🖋️ Step 7: Closing Day!

The finish line is here! On closing day:

✅ You’ll sign the final documents✅ Funds are transferred✅ The deed is recorded

👉 What’s a Deed?The deed is the legal document that officially transfers ownership of the home from the seller to you. Once it’s recorded, the home is officially yours. 🎉

📲 Ready to Start Your Journey?

Your path to homeownership doesn’t have to be stressful — not when you’ve got a trusted guide. I’m here every step of the way to make sure you feel confident, informed, and excited about your future.

Whether you’re ready to start today or just have a few questions, reach out anytime.

Let’s find your way home — together.

Kim Idel | Your Home Girl 🏡📞 573-761-3403 | 📱 573-230-0333📧 k.idel@icloud.com 🌐 www.kimidelhomegirl.com