Spring is one of the busiest (and best!) seasons to buy a home! Whether you're a first-time buyer stepping into the market or a seasoned homeowner looking for something new, spring offers fresh inventory, longer days for showings, and a fresh start and perfect window to make your move!
Here’s your ultimate step-by-step guide to help you feel confident, clear, and ready to take the leap into homeownership this season.
1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Before you start scrolling through listings or daydreaming about hosting backyard BBQs, it’s essential to understand what you can afford. Getting pre-approved by a mortgage lender helps you know your budget and shows sellers that you’re a serious, qualified buyer—which is especially important in a competitive spring market.
✔️ Gather recent pay stubs, tax documents, and a list of debts
✔️ Check your credit score and work on improving it if needed
✔️ Shop around for the best interest rates and loan terms
2. Make a List of Wants vs. Needs
It’s easy to get swept up by a beautiful kitchen or dreamy backyard, but it’s important to stay focused. Take some time to list your must-haves—the things you absolutely need in a home—and then jot down your nice-to-haves, which are the features that would be a bonus but aren’t dealbreakers.
Must-haves: Number of bedrooms, commute time, school district, accessibility
Nice-to-haves: Fireplace, walk-in closet, skylights, finished basement
3. Partner with a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent
A great agent does more than just unlock doors—they’re your guide, your advocate, and your sounding board throughout the process. Look for someone who listens to your goals, knows the local market well, and communicates clearly and honestly.
And if you’re reading this—hi, I’d love to help! Working with someone you trust makes the journey smoother and a lot more enjoyable.
4. Start Touring Homes and Exploring Neighbourhoods
This is where it starts to feel real—and exciting. In spring, you’ll likely see a wider selection of homes, so get ready to visit open houses, book private showings, and scroll a little more than usual.
✔️ Visit neighbourhoods at different times of day to get a feel for the area
✔️ Don’t just look at staging—check for signs of wear, water damage, or needed repairs
✔️ Take notes and photos to keep track of what you love (and what you don’t)
5. Make an Informed, Competitive Offer
When you find a home you love, your agent will guide you through making a strong offer that fits your budget and aligns with market conditions. Spring can be fast-paced, so you’ll want to be ready to move quickly without rushing into something that doesn’t feel right.
✔️ Consider your flexibility—closing date, contingencies, deposit size
✔️ Ask your agent for a comparative market analysis to help determine your offer
✔️ If appropriate, consider adding a personal letter to help your offer stand out
6. Schedule a Professional Home Inspection
Even if the home looks perfect, don’t skip the inspection. A certified home inspector will check for issues with the structure, roof, plumbing, electrical systems, and more. If something concerning pops up, this is your chance to ask for repairs or renegotiate the price.
✔️ Be present for the inspection so you can ask questions
✔️ Don’t be alarmed by small issues—focus on big-ticket concerns
✔️ Ask for a detailed report afterward for your records
7. Get Ready for Closing
Once your offer is accepted, it’s time to finalize everything. This is the phase where you’ll secure your financing, review all legal documents, and do a final walk-through of the home before officially getting the keys.
✔️ Review your mortgage terms carefully
✔️ Budget for closing costs
✔️ Set up home insurance, utilities, and internet before move-in day
8. Move In and Celebrate!
Congratulations, homeowner! Whether this is your very first place or the next chapter in your journey, take time to enjoy this milestone. Pop some bubbly, invite friends over for a cozy housewarming, or just savor a quiet moment in your new favorite corner.
Ready to Begin Your Spring Search?
There’s something really special about buying a home in the spring—everything feels full of possibility. If you’re thinking about making a move, I’d love to help you navigate the process and find a home that fits your lifestyle!
