You are getting very close to the end of this long and complicated process to buy a home. Now you have to make sure you make it to closing.

Did you require an inspection in your offer? If yes, you need to schedule a home inspection as soon as possible. Your realtor can recommend some inspectors. Ask for referrals.

Inspections frequently result in a long list of things to fix in your new home. Some items on the list will be minor and some may be major issues. You must decide what should be fixed before closing and what can be put off. Is there anything on the list that forces you to consider if you still want this house?

Secondly, you need to decide how much money you want from the seller to pay for these repairs. A new roof, significant electrical and plumbing issues, and/or structural issues can blow up your deal. The seller may be unwilling to pay the price of the repairs. You may be unwilling to take on major issues in the house. Work with your realtor to develop a negotiating strategy to adjust your offer.

Your lender will require an appraisal to make sure that the offer price does not exceed the market value of the home. If your offer price exceeds the appraised value you will need help from your realtor to develop a strategy to modify your offer.

If the inspection issues are resolved and the appraisal comes in at the right price, you can move forward with your lender to finalize this deal. Even though you are pre-approved for your loan there will always be more questions and more paperwork. You may need mortgage insurance and title insurance.

Involve your lawyer to draw up the deed and look over the paperwork for closing.

It would be helpful if the seller is willing to walk through your new home with you to review the HVAC systems, water and gas shut offs, appliances, alarm system, smoke detectors, sprinklers, etc. Work through your realtor to contact the seller.

Closings require patience. There is a lot of paperwork to go through. You will sign your name and your initials more times than you can imagine. Often, there is an error or a missing document that needs to be tracked down. Always schedule more time for a closing than what you are told.

Remember this is the largest amount of money you will ever spend, so you want it to be right.

After closing you should consider having the locks rekeyed. Do you need a security system?

You will need a homeowner’s insurance policy. Make sure you understand the terms of this policy.

Are you going to move your belongings yourself or are you going to hire someone to help you move?

Make sure you get all the utilities turned on and registered in your name when you get possession of the house.

In a few months you might want to check that your property deed is recorded correctly with the proper authority.

Enjoy your success and enjoy your new home!