Buyer guide
For buyers
Buying a home in Fort Collins
Buying a home moves through the same stages whether it is your first purchase or your fifth. The steps below are the ones we walk every buyer through, and an agent handles the paperwork and deadlines at each one so nothing slips.
The process
From pre-approval to keys in six steps
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Get pre-approved
A lender reviews your income and credit and issues a pre-approval letter. It sets your budget and tells sellers you are ready.
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Meet your agent
We talk through your must-haves, neighborhoods, and timeline, then set up a saved search for matching listings.
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Tour homes
See your top picks in person or by video. Your agent points out condition issues and resale factors you might miss.
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Make an offer
We price the offer against recent comparable sales and write in the contingencies that protect you.
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Inspection and appraisal
An inspector checks the home and an appraiser confirms value. Your agent negotiates repairs or credits from the findings.
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Close and move in
You sign at the title company, funds transfer, and you get the keys. We do a final walkthrough with you first.
Buyer questions
How much do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the loan. Conventional loans can start near 3 to 5 percent down, FHA loans near 3.5 percent, and VA loans at zero down for those who qualify. Your lender will lay out the options at pre-approval.
Does using a buyer's agent cost me anything?
In most transactions the seller's listing agreement covers buyer-agent compensation, so representation is free to the buyer. We confirm the terms in writing before you tour, so there are no surprises.
How long does buying take?
From offer accepted to closing usually runs 30 to 45 days. The search itself varies: some buyers find a home in a weekend, others take a few months to find the right fit.
Should I get a home inspection?
Yes. An inspection runs $400 to $600 in this area and can reveal roof, foundation, or system issues worth thousands. We keep the inspection contingency in nearly every offer.
What credit score do I need?
Many conventional loans start around a 620 score, and FHA loans can go lower. A higher score lowers your rate. If you are not there yet, a lender can map out what raises it.
First-time buyer?
Start with a no-pressure consultation
We will connect you with a lender for pre-approval and set up a search that matches your budget. No obligation to buy.