Home / Buyer Guide
Your first home: a practical checklist
A simple starting point for first-time buyers across Northern Illinois. Save or print this page and bring your questions to our conversation.
BEFORE YOU START
Six steps toward your first home
- Set a comfortable monthly payment and estimate cash needed at closing.
- Ask a lender about preapproval and compare loan terms.
- Discuss down payment assistance programs and current eligibility with a participating lender.
- Choose areas that fit your travel needs and lifestyle; verify school assignments for each address.
- Tour homes and review condition, taxes, association rules and disclosures.
- Review the offer, inspection, financing, appraisal and closing timeline with your agent.
Programs, loan limits, rates and eligibility can change. Ask your lender about current options that apply to your situation. Hebert can help you organize the real estate side of your plan.
Questions to bring to our first conversation
- Where would you like to live, and what commute works for you?
- What monthly payment feels comfortable?
- Are there features your home must have?
- What is your ideal timeline?
Prefer Spanish? Lea la guía en español.
YOUR NEXT STEP
Ready to explore your options?
Call or text 847-514-1168. You can also send a message from the contact form.