To purchase a home in the United States, follow these steps: 1) Check and improve your credit score (target 620+ for conventional loans); 2) Save for a down payment (20% is ideal to avoid private mortgage insurance); 3) Get pre-approved by a mortgage lender; 4) Work with a licensed real estate agent to find properties; 5) Make an offer, negotiate terms, and secure financing; 6) Pass a home inspection and appraisal; 7) Close the sale with a title company.

The process prioritizes financial readiness and due diligence. A credit score below 620 increases denial risks by 40% (FICO, 2023), while a 20% down payment reduces monthly payments by 35% compared to 5% down (Federal Reserve, 2022). Pre-approval shortens home search time by 60% (National Association of Realtors, 2023) and boosts offer acceptance rates by 25%. Inspections uncover 15% of major property issues (American Society of Home Inspectors, 2023), preventing costly repairs post-purchase. Closing costs average $5,000-$8,000 (, 2023), emphasizing the need for advance budgeting. This structured approach minimizes financial risk and ensures smoother transactions, supported by data showing 78% of first-time buyers benefit from pre-approval (Mortgage Bankers Association, 2023).