Building your homebuying team
Build your team
There's a lot of information to take in when you're buying a home.
The good news is, there are professionals to guide you along the way. For many buyers, it starts with a real estate agent and a Home Lending Advisor.
Real estate agent
An important first step in buying a home is finding a real estate agent. A good real estate agent will be your partner throughout your home buying journey, all the way to closing. They can help you understand pricing, provide insights about neighborhoods and guide you as you negotiate your offer.
Home Lending Advisor
A Home Lending Advisor or HLA will help you get pre-qualified for a mortgage and find a loan that's right for you. They'll look at your financial picture, make recommendations and get you through the loan application process, all the way to closing.
Find a Chase Home Lending Advisor
To find a Chase Home Lending Advisor near you, tell us your ZIP code.
Other members of your home buying team
Get to know some of the people you'll encounter along your home buying journey.
Some you'll meet; others will be working behind the scenes. Either way, it's important to understand their role and how they can help you.
Home inspector
Home inspector
, Side 2 of 2A home inspector checks the condition of things like electrical, plumbing, heating, windows and roof to identify any issues.
Remember: No house is perfect. An inspector’s report will outline the imperfections so you can decide if you still want to buy.
Loan processor
Loan processor
, Side 2 of 2The loan processor works with your HLA to review your loan application. They verify info with credit companies, your employer and the appraiser, before sending your paperwork to the underwriter. Once approved, the loan processor conducts a final audit to ensure you're ready for closing.
Underwriter
Underwriter
, Side 2 of 2An underwriter determines if your loan application will be approved. They review your income, debt, credit, savings and debt-to-income ratio and will assess risk for the lender.
Appraiser
Appraiser
, Side 2 of 2An appraiser determines the estimated value of the home you want to buy. They study the condition of the home and review the values/sales of comparable properties in the neighborhood. Their appraisal could impact your loan approval.
Real estate lawyer
Real estate lawyer
, Side 2 of 2Your agent will help you determine if you need a real estate lawyer. If you do, the lawyer will ensure that your purchase agreement is legally binding and meets local, state and federal requirements. The lawyer will also draft any special agreements between you and the seller.
Tax advisor
Tax advisor
, Side 2 of 2You may need a tax advisor to find out if home buying and mortgage-related expenses are tax deductible. The advisor will help you determine if tax law applies to your specific circumstances, and can help you estimate the potential tax savings associated with a specific property and mortgage.
