The Buying Process
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Home in Middle Tennessee
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you'll ever make — and it doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Here's exactly what to expect, from your first conversation to the day you get your keys.
Why Middle Tennessee?
Middle Tennessee continues to be one of the most desirable real estate markets in the country — with strong job growth, no state income tax, excellent schools, and a quality of life that's hard to beat. Whether you're relocating from out of state or moving across town, now is a great time to plant roots here.
Get Pre-Approved
Before you start touring homes, you'll want a pre-approval letter from a lender. This tells you exactly how much home you can afford and shows sellers you're a serious buyer. I can connect you with trusted local lenders who know the Middle Tennessee market.
Sharon's Tip
Pre-approval is different from pre-qualification — it's a stronger commitment from the lender and carries more weight with sellers.
Define Your Priorities
We'll sit down (or hop on a call) to talk through what matters most to you — location, school district, home size, style, commute, and budget. This conversation shapes everything that comes next.
Sharon's Tip
Make a list of your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves. It helps us focus your search and move quickly when the right home appears.
Search & Tour Homes
I'll set up a custom home search based on your criteria and alert you the moment new listings hit the market. When you find homes you love, we'll schedule tours — and I'll be with you every step, pointing out things you might not notice on your own.
Sharon's Tip
In Middle Tennessee's competitive market, being ready to move quickly is key. We'll have a plan in place before you fall in love with a home.
Make an Offer
When you find the one, I'll prepare a competitive offer based on comparable sales, market conditions, and your goals. I'll walk you through every term — price, contingencies, closing date — so you feel confident in what you're signing.
Sharon's Tip
Tennessee is a buyer-friendly state with reasonable disclosure laws. I'll make sure you understand exactly what you're agreeing to.
Under Contract & Inspections
Once your offer is accepted, the due diligence period begins. You'll have a home inspection (and possibly a sewer scope, radon test, or other specialty inspections). I'll help you interpret the results and negotiate any repairs or credits with the seller.
Sharon's Tip
Never skip the inspection — even on new construction. I can recommend trusted local inspectors who are thorough and reliable.
Appraisal & Financing
Your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home's value. Meanwhile, you'll be working with your lender to finalize your loan. I'll keep communication flowing between all parties to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
Sharon's Tip
Avoid making large purchases or changing jobs during this period — it can affect your loan approval.
Final Walkthrough
A day or two before closing, we'll do a final walkthrough of the home to make sure it's in the agreed-upon condition and that any negotiated repairs have been completed.
Sharon's Tip
Bring your checklist from the inspection report. This is your last chance to catch anything before the keys change hands.
Closing Day
You'll sign a stack of documents, pay your closing costs, and receive the keys to your new home. In Tennessee, closings are typically handled by a title company or real estate attorney. I'll be there to celebrate with you!
Sharon's Tip
Closing costs in Tennessee typically run 2–5% of the purchase price. Your lender will provide a Closing Disclosure 3 days before closing with the exact figures.
Ready to Start Your Home Search?
Take my quick Home Quiz to share your timeline and priorities — I'll reach out with a personalized plan.