My Home Key Checklist

Money readiness

• Emergency fund kept separate from the down payment
• Two years of steady, documented income
• Down payment saved
• Closing and moving costs saved
• Debt-to-income at or under 36%
• Credit score checked and improved
• No new loans or credit cards until after closing

The mortgage

• Preapproved, not just prequalified
• Compared at least three lenders
• Fixed vs. adjustable rate decided
• Know when PMI goes away
• State and city first-time buyer programs checked

Location and lifestyle

• Commute to work, gigs and transit
• Plan to stay about 5+ years
• Neighborhood feel and safety at night
• Flood zone and climate risk checked
• Resale potential

The home itself

• Professional home inspection
• Age of roof, heating, plumbing and electrical
• Appraisal at or above the price
• For condos: HOA fees, rules and reserve fund

Musician-specific

• Noise rules: condo bylaws, HOA and town ordinances
• Room for a practice space or home studio, plus a soundproofing budget
• Zoning rules if you'll teach lessons at home
• Insurance for instruments and gear
• Parking and loading access for gear
• Lender-ready paperwork for gig income

Legal and process

• Written buyer agreement and how your agent is paid
• Inspection, financing and appraisal contingencies
• Closing Disclosure read line by line
• Title insurance
• Final walk-through

Ongoing costs

• Property taxes for that town
• Homeowners insurance quotes before making an offer
• Maintenance budget: 1%–3% of value per year
• Utilities
• HOA
• PMI

My own items

Rank my Top 5