Buying a Home in Madison, WI

4 Smart Steps to Take Before 

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make—and preparation is everything. Before you dive into showings and open houses, taking a few essential steps can set you up for success and help you avoid costly surprises. Here are four smart moves to make before you start house hunting.

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1. Find a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent

Your first move should be to team up with a trusted, experienced real estate agent to guide your through the entire process. Amber Huemmer with The Huemmer Home Team - LPT Realty has sold over 2000 homes in the Madison, WI area. A great agent isn’t just there to unlock doors—they’re your advisor, negotiator, and advocate throughout the entire process. They will also connect you with the right people to get the job done smoothly. Check out our Preferred Lenders that our team knows, likes and trusts. They’ll help you understand the local market, flag potential issues with homes, craft winning offers, and guide you through paperwork and timelines. Choosing the right agent early on can save you time, stress, and money—so don’t skip this step.

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2. Evaluate Your Finances

Before you fall in love with a home, make sure your financial foundation is solid. Start by reviewing your credit score, monthly expenses, and savings. Determine how much home you can realistically afford by factoring in the down payment, closing costs, and monthly mortgage payments (including taxes and insurance). Lenders typically recommend that your mortgage payment not exceed 30% of your gross monthly income. The more prepared you are financially, the smoother your buying experience will be.

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3. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

A mortgage pre-approval shows sellers you’re serious—and gives you a clear understanding of your buying power. During this process, a lender will review your income, assets, credit, and debt to determine how much they’re willing to lend you. You’ll receive a pre-approval letter that strengthens any offer you make. It’s smart to compare rates and terms from multiple lenders to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Pre-approval also helps you shop with confidence, knowing you’re looking in the right price range. Check out our Affordability Calculator!

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4. Define Your Needs and Wants

Before you start scrolling through listings or heading to open houses, take time to think about what really matters to you in a home. Make a list of “must-haves” (like number of bedrooms, location, or school district) and “nice-to-haves” (like a home office, fenced yard, or updated kitchen). Clarifying your priorities early will help you stay focused and make faster, more informed decisions once you begin touring homes.

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Ready to take the next step? A little preparation goes a long way in making your home-buying journey smooth, strategic, and successful. Start with the right agent, get your finances in order, and you’ll be ready to make your move with confidence.

The Huemmer Home Team
LPT Realty
Amber Huemmer
608-279-5424