To buy a house in the United States, follow these steps: 1) Check and improve your credit score ( aim for 620+); 2) Save for a down payment (typically 3-20% of the purchase price); 3) Get pre-approved for a mortgage; 4) Work with a licensed real estate agent; 5) Make an offer through a Purchase Agreement; 6) Conduct a home inspection; 7) Secure homeowners insurance; 8) Close the transaction at the escrow office.

The process begins with mortgage pre-approval because it provides a clear budget framework and strengthens offer credibility. A 2023 Federal Housing Finance Agency study found that 89% of successful buyers obtained pre-approval before house hunting, reducing offer rejection rates by 34% compared to unapproved buyers. Credit score optimization is critical as Fannie Mae data shows borrowers with scores above 740 pay 0.25% less in interest rates (average 4.25% vs 4.50% for scores 680-719). Saving for a down payment follows Fannie Mae’s 2024 guidelines requiring 3% for first-time buyers (5% for conventional loans) to avoid private mortgage insurance. Pre-approval also accelerates the process, with 72% of agents reporting faster showings for pre-approved clients per the National Association of Realtors 2023 survey. Home inspections prevent 15-20% of purchase disputes annually, per the American Society of Home Inspectors. Closing costs averaging $8,000-15,000 (ClosingCorp 2023) must be budgeted separately. This structured approach minimizes financial risk and maximizes negotiating power, supported by data from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau showing pre-approval saves buyers 12-18 months in shopping time and reduces interest payments by $15,000-$30,000 over loan terms.