First-Time Buyer Checklist: What to Do Before You Start House Hunting in Maryland
- Brad S.
- May 6
- 2 min read
Buying your first home in Maryland? Whether you're moving to Fort Meade, relocating to Anne Arundel County, or simply tired of renting, preparing the right way can save you time, money, and stress.
Here's a simple, practical checklist to follow before you start house hunting.
1. Check Your Credit and Fix Any Issues
Before you apply for a mortgage, pull your credit report and review it carefully. Look for:
Errors that could hurt your score
High credit card balances
Late payments that need explaining
📍 Tip: Aim for a credit score of 620+ for most loan types, though VA loans often allow more flexibility.
2. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
A pre-approval letter tells sellers you’re serious—and helps you set a realistic budget.
Work with a lender who:
Understands VA loans (if you're military)
Knows Maryland-specific property taxes and insurance costs
Can close on time without surprises
Bonus: Pre-approval can also lock in your rate for a certain period.
3. Build Your Budget Beyond the Mortgage
Many first-time buyers focus only on the mortgage payment—but you also need to budget for:
Closing costs (2%–5% of the purchase price)
Property taxes
Homeowners insurance
Utilities
HOA dues (if applicable)
4. Prioritize Your Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves
Make two lists:
Must-Haves: Number of bedrooms, commute time, school district, etc.
Nice-to-Haves: Fireplace, big backyard, home office
This will help you stay focused when emotions kick in during showings.
5. Research Neighborhoods
Focus on location first. Key things to consider:
Commute to work or Fort Meade
School ratings
Safety and community amenities
📍 Top Starter Home Areas in Maryland: Odenton, Severn, Crofton, Laurel, and Gambrills.
6. Choose the Right Buyer’s Agent
Not all agents are created equal. As a first-time buyer, you need someone who:
Educates you on every step
Protects your interests (not just the sale)
Understands VA loans (if applicable)
Knows the Maryland market inside and out
At Salvato & Co., we work with first-time buyers every day—and we never push you into something that isn't right for you.
7. Plan for the Offer and Closing Process
Once you find "the one," things move fast. Be ready for:
Earnest money deposits (usually 1%–2% of the price)
Negotiations over price, repairs, or closing costs
Scheduling inspections and appraisals
Finalizing your loan paperwork
Knowing what's next helps you stay confident and avoid surprises.
Ready to Start Your Home Search?
Buying your first home is a major milestone—and having the right team makes all the difference.
📞 Schedule a Free Buyer Consultation or explore our Buy or Sell Services page to see how we help first-time buyers in Maryland move with confidence.
