Homebuyer Checklist for Murfreesboro & Middle Tennessee

A simple step-by-step list to help you move from “thinking about it” to closing day.

Buying a home has a lot of moving parts, but it does not have to feel overwhelming. This checklist walks you through the main steps most buyers in Murfreesboro, Rutherford County, and Middle Tennessee follow from first questions to getting the keys.

Step 1: Connect With the Turner Victory Team

Schedule a quick conversation with a member of the Turner Victory Team at Onward Real Estate.
Talk through your goals, timing, and any concerns you have about buying.
Decide whether you need to sell a current home before you buy your next one.
Map out a basic game plan so you understand the path from today to closing.

Step 2: Get Ready Financially

Review your monthly budget and comfort range for a payment.
Gather basic documents: recent pay stubs, W-2s, tax returns, and bank statements.
Check your credit and avoid opening new debt if possible.
Decide how much you would like to use for down payment and closing costs.

Step 3: Talk With a Lender and Get Pre-Approved

Choose a local lender who understands Middle Tennessee.
Complete a pre-approval application and share your documents.
Review loan options, estimated payment, and cash needed to close.
Get a written pre-approval letter to use when you make an offer.

Step 4: Clarify Your Home Search

Pick your target areas (city, neighborhoods, commute routes).
Decide on your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and deal-breakers.
Set your price range based on your pre-approval and comfort level.
Set up a home search with email alerts so you see new listings quickly.

Step 5: Tour Homes and Compare Options

Schedule showings for homes that fit your criteria.
Take notes on each property: layout, condition, neighborhood, drive time.
Watch for signs of deferred maintenance or big upcoming repairs.
Refine your search as you learn what you like and do not like.

Step 6: Make an Offer

Review recent sales and current competition with your agent.
Choose an offer price, earnest money amount, and closing date.
Decide which contingencies you need (inspection, financing, appraisal, sale of current home).
Sign the offer and submit it with your pre-approval letter.

Step 7: Inspection and Appraisal

Schedule a home inspection as soon as your offer is accepted.
Review the inspection report and decide how to respond, if needed.
Your lender orders the appraisal to confirm value for the loan.
Work with your agent to handle any repair or price negotiations.

Step 8: Final Loan Approval and Closing Prep

Send any remaining documents your lender requests.
Avoid big purchases, job changes, or new debt before closing.
Review your closing disclosure with your lender.
Arrange utilities, movers, and final walk-through with your agent.

Step 9: Closing Day and Moving In

Complete your final walk-through to confirm the home’s condition.
Sign your closing documents at the title company or attorney’s office.
Once the transaction records, you receive your keys.
Celebrate and move into your new home.

You do not have to work through this checklist alone. Our team guides buyers through these steps every week in Murfreesboro and across Middle Tennessee.

Schedule a Buyer Consultation Download the Homebuyer Guide

We will walk through where you are now, what you want to accomplish, and how to build a plan that fits your timeline and comfort level.