If you’re planning to buy a home in the next few months, the 90 days before you start touring homes are some of the most important. A strong plan helps you avoid last-minute stress, stay organized, and position yourself to make confident decisions — especially in a fast-moving market like Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, and Phoenix.

As someone who guides buyers through every detail, I’ve put together a simple 90-day plan that prepares you for success from day one.

Here’s exactly what to do.

90 Days Out: Build Your Financial Foundation

1. Review Your Monthly Budget

Before you meet with a lender, get clear on your comfort zone — not just what you can afford, but what you want your monthly payment to feel like.

Ask yourself:

• What’s my ideal monthly payment?

• What expenses are flexible?

• What lifestyle choices matter most to me?

A home should support your life — not strain it.

2. Check Your Credit

Your credit doesn’t need to be perfect, but understanding where you stand helps lenders guide you toward the best loan options.

Look for:

• Errors

• Old accounts

• High balances

• Unrecognized charges

Even small adjustments make a meaningful difference.

3. Avoid Big Purchases

In the 90 days leading up to a home purchase, avoid:

• Car loans

• Large credit card charges

• New lines of credit

• Sudden job changes

These can affect loan approval or your interest rate.

60 Days Out: Get Pre-Approved & Get Clear on Your Goals

4. Connect With a Trusted Lender

Pre-approval gives you real numbers — not guesses.

Your lender helps you understand:

• Your loan options

• Down payment possibilities

• Monthly payments

• Closing costs

• Available assistance programs

This step sets the tone for your entire home search.

5. Outline Your Must-Haves VS. Nice-to-Haves

In Arizona, buyers often prioritize things like:

• Comfortable indoor spaces

• Updated HVAC systems

• Outdoor living potential

• Functional floor plans

• Low-maintenance yards

• Proximity to everyday amenities

Your priorities matter — I help you match them to the areas that fit best.

6. Explore Neighborhoods in Advance

Take time to drive through areas like:

• Gilbert — clean, well-planned, convenient

• Chandler — great access to business districts

• Mesa — practical, diverse options

• Queen Creek — newer homes, growing amenities

• Scottsdale — refined lifestyle, recreation

• Phoenix — central convenience, strong variety

Getting familiar early helps you feel confident when homes hit the market.

30 Days Out: Start Prepping for the Actual Search

7. Get Your Documents in Order

Your lender may need:

• W-2s

• Pay stubs

• Bank statements

• ID

• Employment verification

Having everything ready speeds up your process later.

8. Review Your Pre-Approval With Me

Once your lender gives your pre-approval, we’ll sit down together to discuss:

• Your price range

• Your ideal neighborhoods

• Your timeline

• The type of home that fits your next chapter

• What to expect during the offer process

My goal is to make sure you feel clear, organized, and prepared.

9. Set Up a “Home Search Inbox”

You’ll start receiving listings quickly. To stay organized:

• Use a dedicated email folder

• Save homes you like

• Flag questions you want to ask

• Track properties that catch your eye

This keeps your search efficient and stress-free.

10. Begin Watching the Market Daily

Even before you’re ready to tour, begin getting familiar with:

• How quickly homes go under contract

• Typical price ranges in your preferred areas

• What features are common at different price points

When you understand the market, you’ll make decisions with confidence — not pressure.

Why This 90-Day Plan Works

Buying a home is a major step, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With preparation, clarity, and the right support, you’ll move through the process smoothly — and with confidence.

My role is to guide you through every detail, ask the right questions, and make sure your experience feels organized and supported from the very beginning.

FAQs: Getting Ready to Buy a Home in Arizona

Q: Do I need perfect credit to buy a home?
A: Not at all. Many Arizona buyers qualify with flexible credit scores.

Q: How early should I talk to a lender?
A: 60–90 days out is ideal so you understand your options clearly.

Q: Can I buy a home with little money down?
A: Yes. Many programs help reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Q: When should I start touring homes?
A: After pre-approval, when your budget and goals are clear.

Q: How do I choose the right neighborhood?
A: We’ll look at convenience, lifestyle, amenities, and property options that support your long-term plans.

Thinking About Buying a Home in the Next 90 Days?

Let’s start preparing now so your process feels smooth, organized, and confident from day one.

📞 480-980-4400
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.denisehurd.com

Your next move begins with a clear plan — and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.