Buying a home in Charlotte

Step by step

The process, simplified

1. 01

   Talk it through

   We sit down, learn what you need, and map a realistic budget and timeline before anyone looks at a listing.

2. 02

   Get pre-approved

   A real pre-approval from a local lender tells you what you can spend and makes your offer credible.

3. 03

   Tour with intent

   We narrow neighborhoods first, then see homes — so you're comparing real options, not chasing listings.

4. 04

   Write the offer

   Price is one lever. Due diligence, timing and terms often matter more. We build the offer to win without overpaying.

5. 05

   Due diligence

   Inspections, repairs, appraisal, insurance and loan underwriting all happen inside this window. We track every deadline.

6. 06

   Close and get keys

   Final walkthrough, funds wired, papers signed at the attorney's office, keys in hand.

Before we talk details, read the NC Real Estate Commission’s Working with Real Estate Agents brochure — it explains who an agent represents and how agents are paid.

Ask these

Top 20 questions buyers should ask

Bring this list to any agent, including us. Clear answers are the whole point.

1. 01How much house can I actually afford each month, not just on paper?
2. 02Should I get pre-qualified or fully pre-approved before I start looking?
3. 03How much do I need for a down payment, and are there local assistance programs?
4. 04What closing costs should I budget for in Mecklenburg County?
5. 05How is my credit score going to affect my rate?
6. 06Which Charlotte neighborhoods fit my commute, budget and lifestyle?
7. 07How are the schools zoned, and can that change?
8. 08What are the property taxes and any HOA dues on this home?
9. 09How long has this house been on the market, and has the price moved?
10. 10What did comparable homes nearby actually sell for?
11. 11In a multiple-offer situation, how do we compete without overpaying?
12. 12What is due diligence money versus earnest money in North Carolina?
13. 13What happens if I walk away during the due diligence period?
14. 14Which inspections do I need — general, radon, sewer, termite, structural?
15. 15What do I do if the inspection turns up real problems?
16. 16What if the appraisal comes in below my offer price?
17. 17How much homeowner's insurance will this property need?
18. 18Do I need a survey, and what does a title search protect me from?
19. 19What does the timeline from accepted offer to closing look like?
20. 20Who pays for what at closing, and what will I owe on the day?