From pre-approval to keys in hand—clear steps, real Raleigh numbers, and zero fluff.

Last updated: October 10, 2025 · Serving Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Garner, Wake County and all of North Carolina.

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Download my free Homebuyers Guide or text RALEIGH to 984-289-6479.

Get the Guide Checklists, timelines, and Raleigh-specific payment examples.

1. 💵 Budget & Payment (Raleigh reality)

   Goal: Set a monthly payment that includes Wake County taxes, insurance, HOA, and PMI where applicable.

   We start with a realistic payment window—not just rate × price. I model Raleigh taxes and insurance so there are no day-of-closing surprises.

   Read next: Rent vs Buy in Raleigh · Hidden Costs (Raleigh) · The Truth About Mortgage Rates

2. ✅ Pre-Approval (strong, clean, and fast)

   Deliverables: credit pull, docs, DU/LP findings, maximum purchase & payment scenarios.

   You’ll know your realistic price range and how credit score, down payment, and MI pricing change your total payment—not just the rate.

   Read next: Essential Credit Tips · Self-Employed Guide · First-Time Programs: Pros & Cons

3. 🔎 Home Shopping (neighborhood fit + offer prep)

   Tip: Ask me for payment snapshots by neighborhood and price band so your search stays aligned with budget.

   We coordinate with your agent on list-to-sale dynamics by area so you know where to bid, where to wait, and what concessions are typical.

   Nice to know: Raleigh Hidden Gems · Family Activities

4. 🤝 Offer & Program Choice (Conventional vs FHA vs VA)

   We compare total payment & cash-to-close with seller/builder credits and buydowns.

   For veterans, VA often wins on payment. FHA can beat Conventional in mid-600s credit due to MI pricing. We’ll structure the offer that keeps your monthly sane.

   Deep dives: First-Time Buyer Programs · Construction vs Renovation

5. 🔒 Rate Lock (timing & tradeoffs)

   Choose lock length vs cost; know when to float down; avoid last-minute pricing drama.

   We’ll set a lock strategy that matches your closing timeline and risk tolerance—then monitor for any float-down opportunity.

   Read next: When to Lock Your Rate

6. 📋 Under Contract (appraisal, title, and conditions)

   Milestones: disclosures → appraisal & title → conditional approval → clear to close.

   We keep documents tight and conditions minimal so you hit clear-to-close without drama. I’ll call out anything that can slow a NC closing.

   Helpful: First-Home Timeline (NC)

7. 🔑 Closing & Move-In (the finish line)

   Final numbers review; wire/attorney coordination; keys; first payment setup.

   You’ll get a clean closing disclosure walkthrough and a short post-closing checklist so nothing is missed (escrows, homestead, tax bills).

   Handy: 10 Things After Move-In

Need this personalized to your scenario?

I’ll map your exact payment, cash-to-close, and best-fit program (Raleigh taxes & insurance included).

Ask Michael Response within 1 business day.

Buyer Roadmap — Quick FAQ

How long does the Raleigh purchase process usually take?

Do I need 20% down to avoid surprises?

When should I lock my rate?

What documents do underwriters care about most?

Get a clear answer in 1 business day

Raleigh-specific, plain English, real numbers.

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