The Kentucky Home Buyer's Guide
My free 18-page guide walks you through every step of buying a home in Kentucky, from choosing an agent and comparing loan types to closing day and your first week as a homeowner.
The 10 steps to buying a home
Here's a quick look at what the guide covers. The full guide has the details, checklists and a glossary of real estate terms.
Find a great agent
A buyer's agent has a duty to act in your best interest, knows the local market and guides you from pre-approval to the final signature.
Get your finances ready
Compare loan types like FHA, conventional, VA and USDA, and get pre-approved so you know your budget and can make a strong offer.
Tour homes
Look past the finishes. Check the roof, HVAC, plumbing and signs of water damage, and get clear on your needs versus your wants.
Make an offer
We'll decide on price, loan type, what stays with the house, contingencies and timelines, using recent sales to back up your numbers.
Under contract
Expect to pay your earnest money deposit and schedule inspections while your lender moves your loan forward.
Inspection
A licensed inspector evaluates the home's condition. Repair requests should focus on health and safety, structural items and unknowns.
Appraisal and loan approval
The lender's appraiser confirms the home's value supports your loan. VA and FHA loans have their own appraisal standards.
Closing costs
Plan for lender and title fees plus prepaid taxes and insurance. Your Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure spell out the details.
Closing day
You'll review your Closing Disclosure, sign your loan and deed documents with the title company and get your keys.
Welcome home
Change the locks, find your water shut-off, set up utilities and update your Kentucky driver's license and registration.
Bonus: the Kentucky Homestead Exemption
If you're 65 or older, or classified as totally disabled, Kentucky's Homestead Exemption can lower the assessed value of your primary residence for property taxes every year. It isn't applied automatically. You file with your county Property Valuation Administrator (PVA). The guide explains who qualifies and what to bring.
This is general information, not tax advice. Confirm current amounts and requirements with your county PVA.
Have questions about buying?
The guide is a great start, but every buyer's situation is different. Let's talk through yours.