Before serious shopping
- Set a comfortable monthly housing budget.
- Estimate cash needed beyond the down payment.
- Compare lender options and obtain pre-approval when ready.
- Choose and understand buyer representation.
- Write must-haves, nice-to-haves and dealbreakers.
- Identify likely inspection/specialist vendors before you need them.
For every promising property
- Visit the street at a useful time of day.
- Look at drainage, roof, exterior, lot slope and access.
- Review seller disclosures and available attachments.
- Research property/tax information.
- Check permit history when relevant.
- Review HOA documents when applicable.
- Ask about insurance questions early if the property has unusual risk factors.
After an accepted offer
- Calendar every contract deadline.
- Schedule general inspection promptly.
- Add specialty inspections based on the property and findings.
- Get written estimates for material issues.
- Review title/escrow documents.
- Keep lender underwriting moving.
- Bind homeowners insurance on time.
- Track negotiated repairs or credits.
Before closing
- Review final loan and closing figures.
- Complete the final walkthrough.
- Confirm agreed repairs and included items.
- Save digital copies of key documents.
- Plan utilities and access.
- Create immediate / first-year / optional repair lists.
After closing
- Locate water and utility shutoffs.
- Change locks/access codes as appropriate.
- Handle safety and water-management work first.
- Start a home-maintenance log.
- Schedule seasonal Bend maintenance.
- Save warranties, invoices and permits.
Common questions
Should I do every item on this checklist?
No. Use it as a prompt list and adapt it to your transaction, property and professional advice.
Official sources & further research
For rules, licensing and local programs, use the current primary source before making a decision.