Buying a home is exciting—but before you ask your real estate agent to start booking showings, a little prep work will save you time, stress, and possibly a lot of money. Great agents love helping motivated buyers, and the steps you take before you start touring homes will make the whole process smoother and more enjoyable.

Here are the five essential things every buyer should do before scheduling their first showing.

1. Get Pre-Approved (Not Just Pre-Qualified)

Walking into a showing without a pre-approval is like arriving at the airport without a ticket—you might get on the plane, but probably not today.

A solid pre-approval letter:

• Tells you exactly what you can afford

• Shows sellers you're serious

• Helps your agent target homes that truly fit your budget

Don’t worry—pre-approval is quick, and a good lender will walk you through it step-by-step.

2. Define Your “Non-Negotiables”

Before touring homes, take a moment to outline:

• Your must-haves

• Your nice-to-haves

• Your absolute deal-breakers

Being clear about what matters most—whether it's school districts, commute times, or a fenced backyard—helps your agent narrow in on homes that fit your lifestyle.

3. Check Your Schedule and Availability

Great homes can move fast. Before asking your agent to book showings, look at your upcoming week(s) and identify realistic times when you’re available.

Agents coordinate with sellers, tenants, and other agents—so having flexibility makes it easier to secure the showings you want.

4. Research Neighborhoods in Advance

Before stepping into a home, spend a little time:

• Driving through neighborhoods

• Checking commute times

• Exploring nearby amenities

• Reviewing local market trends

This helps you understand the context behind the homes you’ll be seeing—and prevents wasted trips to areas that aren’t the right fit.

5. Communicate Your Timeline Clearly

Are you hoping to move in 30 days? Six months? “When the right home comes along”?
Your agent tailors your strategy based on urgency.

When your agent knows your timeline, they can:

• Monitor listings more precisely

• Alert you to fast-moving homes

• Pace the process in a way that reduces stress

The more they know, the better they can advocate for you.

Final Thoughts

Your real estate agent is your guide, strategist, and advocate—but the process works best when you come prepared.
By taking these five steps before scheduling showings, you’ll save time, feel more confident, and give your agent everything they need to help you win in today’s market.

If you’re ready to take the next step, we’d love to help you start the search!