A Guide for First-Time Homebuyers

What First-Time Homebuyers Need to Know about The Buying Process

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. As first-time buyers, you’re likely juggling many questions and decisions. The Gresham Group is here to help make the process easier and stress-free. Our expert team, an affiliate of ReeceNichols Real Estate, brings over two decades of experience to guide you every step of the way. As a top-producing residential real estate team in the Kansas City Metro, we are highly knowledgeable about current market trends and ready to help you find your perfect home. Here’s how you can buy your first home in 5 easy steps!

1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Before you start browsing homes, the first step is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This will help you understand your budget and show sellers you’re a serious buyer. A pre-approval letter lets you know exactly how much you can afford and will make your offer stronger when you find the right home. At The Gresham Group we can assist with a fast, no-obligation, confidential pre-qualification, ensuring that you know your budget right from the start. 

Our team will introduce you to reputable mortgage lenders who will help you calculate your home buying price range and provide an accurate estimate of the total cash required to purchase your home. It’s always a good idea to work with professionals who understand your needs and financial situation.

As of March 6, 2025, the average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage was 6.63%, the lowest in three months. This decline in rates has led to an 11% rise in mortgage applications, meaning more buyers are taking advantage of these favorable conditions. With lower rates, now may be the perfect time to get pre-approved and start your home buying journey.

2. Find a Trusted Real Estate Agent

Choosing the right real estate agent is critical when buying your first home. At The Gresham Group, we are dedicated to helping first-time buyers like you. As your trusted Buyer’s Agents, we’ll assist in finding the best homes that fit your needs in the area where you want to live. We will help you understand the local market, find homes that fit your needs, and negotiate the best deal for you. Our team will also explain all the necessary purchase documents before you sign anything and help negotiate the best price and terms for you.

3. Start House Hunting

Once you’re pre-approved for a mortgage and have an agent on your side, it’s time to start looking at homes! Make a list of your priorities—whether it’s the number of bedrooms, a spacious backyard, near top-rated schools, or close to work. With our help, you’ll have access to homes that meet your criteria and will schedule showings at your convenience. Plus, if you’re considering a custom home, we have experience helping buyers build and purchase

As a first-time buyer, you may be surprised by the wide range of options available, and we’ll help you narrow down the choices to those that best suit your needs.

4. Make an Offer and Negotiate

When you find the perfect home, it’s time to make an offer! Your real estate agent will help you determine a competitive offer price based on the home’s market value, location, and condition. Once your offer is made, the seller can accept, reject, or counter it.

Negotiation can be tricky, but with us, The Gresham Group by your side, you’ll have an expert who knows how to navigate these discussions to get you the best deal. Our team will help you understand the market value and guide you through the offer process. We’ll also assist in negotiating the price, terms, and conditions. As full-time agents licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, we have the experience and knowledge to advocate for you, ensuring the home-buying process is in your best interest. We’ll ensure that your offer reflects your budget and needs, while also ensuring you don’t overpay.

5. Close on Your Home

Once your offer is accepted, it’s time to close on your home. During this phase, The Gresham Group will coordinate all home inspections, appraisals, title work, and closing documents. Our team will be there to help guide you through this process, ensuring that everything goes smoothly and you fully understand what’s involved. We’ll also help you work with your lender to lock in the best financing terms.

Our team will also be with you at the closing table, ensuring everything goes smoothly and you’re fully informed about the process. You’re then free to move into your new space and begin this exciting new chapter of your life.