📘 Your Central Ohio Home Buying Guide
Buying a home is a major milestone—and whether it's your first time or your fifth, having the right plan and people in place makes all the difference. At The Greenwell Group, we’ve helped thousands of buyers across Central Ohio navigate the market with clarity and confidence.
This step-by-step guide walks you through what to expect, what to prepare, and how we’ll be with you every step of the way.
🔑 Step 1: Get Pre-Approved
Before you fall in love with a home, it’s important to know what you can comfortably afford. Getting pre-approved shows sellers you’re serious and gives you a clear price range to work within.
We recommend starting with James Cockerill, Mortgage Loan Originator (NMLS# 674954) at Howard Hanna Mortgage Services.
🔗 Connect with James ›
🧭 Your Path to Buying
- 📍 Define Needs: We’ll clarify must-haves like layout, schools, yard, and commute.
- 🔍 Begin Search: Browse listings or request a custom alert for new homes.
- 🏠 Tour Properties: We schedule and attend showings with expert feedback.
- 📝 Make an Offer: Craft a competitive offer with our negotiation support.
- 🛠️ Inspections: Understand home condition and repair requests before moving forward.
- 🔑 Closing: Finalize your purchase with confidence. We’re with you at every step.
📩 Ready to Start?
Have questions or want to talk through your goals? We’re here to help from day one.
📞 Call us at 614-818-7210
📘 Visit our Real Estate FAQ blog ›
📰 Buyer & Seller Tips from Our Blog
Explore expert tips to make smarter real estate decisions before, during, and after your move.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Home
- How much should I save for a down payment?
- Down payment amounts vary by loan type, but typically range from 3% to 20% of the purchase price. We can help you explore options that fit your budget.
- What credit score do I need to qualify for a mortgage?
- Most lenders prefer a credit score of 620 or higher for conventional loans. FHA loans can have lower requirements.
- How long does the home buying process usually take?
- From pre-approval to closing, the process often takes 30 to 60 days depending on the market and loan approval timeline.
- Can I buy a home with student loans or debt?
- Yes! Lenders look at your full debt-to-income ratio, not just student loans. We’ll help connect you with a lending expert.
- What happens if there are competing offers?
- We’ll walk you through negotiation strategies and backup options so you stay in control.