Build your homebuying timeline

How long does it take to buy a house?

For most buyers, the full process takes three to six months from first steps to keys: a few weeks to a few months to prepare and get pre-approved, anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to find a home, and 30 to 45 days from accepted offer to closing.

The main stages

• Prepare (1–6 months): check credit, pay down debt, save for down payment and closing costs.
• Pre-approval (1–7 days): gather documents and get a verified pre-approval.
• Find an agent and shop (2 weeks–3 months+): depends on inventory and how flexible you are.
• Under contract (30–45 days): inspection, appraisal, underwriting, title and final walkthrough.
• Closing (1 day): sign, fund and get the keys.

What speeds things up

Strong credit and savings before you start, a fully underwritten pre-approval, quick responses to lender requests, and flexibility on location or features. What slows things down: credit repair, job changes, a low appraisal or title issues. See how long it takes to close for the under-contract stage in detail.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to buy a house for a first-time buyer?

Typically three to six months from getting started to closing, though buyers who need to build credit or savings first may need a year or more.

How long from accepted offer to closing?

Usually 30 to 45 days with a mortgage. Cash purchases can close in one to two weeks.

When should I get pre-approved?

Get pre-approved before you start touring homes seriously. Most pre-approvals are valid for 60 to 90 days.