The home buying process typically follows these key steps:Assess Your Finances: Review your credit score, savings, and determine how much you can afford for a down payment and monthly mortgage payments.Get Pre-Approved for a Loan: Work with a lender to get pre-approved, which gives you a clear budget and shows sellers you’re a serious buyer.Find a Real Estate Agent: Partner with an experienced agent who knows the local market and can guide you through the process.Search for Homes: Browse listings and visit properties that fit your criteria (location, size, price, etc.).Make an Offer: When you find a home you like, submit an offer through your agent, including contingencies (financing, inspections, etc.).Home Inspection & Appraisal: Once the offer is accepted, hire an inspector to ensure the home’s condition and the lender will order an appraisal to verify the property’s value.Secure Financing: Finalize your mortgage by submitting required documents and ensuring the lender clears you for closing.Closing: Sign the final paperwork, pay closing costs, and receive the keys to your new home!

@Jamaal SmithIn Florida, the property appraiser provides a detailed mailing showing all taxes for last year, as well as the proposed taxes for the current year with any increases, as well as a column if the increases aren't approved (or something like that.)I think I missed the fact that you say this was a $600 increase per MONTH!  

Start by reducing debt, researching Houston market trends, and obtaining pre-approved loans.

Leverage my expertise to connect with top-tier, peer-reviewed real estate professionals and discover the best funding options available on BiggerPockets.What You Can Expect from BiggerPockets' Concierge Service:Personalized Assistance: I'll ask 6 to 10 questions to fully understand your strategy and timeline.No Hidden Fees: Enjoy this complimentary value-packed service as a thank you for being a Pro member.Powerful Tools: Using BiggerPockets’ advanced Finder Tools, I’ll conduct an in-depth search and, with your approval, connect you with investor-friendly agents, lenders, tax professionals, and property managers.

This is exactly what's going on.Ask them to send proof of funds or pre-approval letter first.

Leverage my expertise to connect with top-tier, peer-reviewed real estate professionals and discover the best funding options available on BiggerPockets.What You Can Expect from BiggerPockets' Concierge Service:Personalized Assistance: I'll ask 6 to 10 questions to fully understand your strategy and timeline.No Hidden Fees: Enjoy this complimentary value-packed service as a thank you for using BiggerPockets.Powerful Tools: Using BiggerPockets’ advanced Finder Tools, I’ll conduct an in-depth search and, with your approval, connect you with investor-friendly agents, lenders, tax professionals, and property managers.

A lot of properties don't enough spread to even meet that minimum, so it just ends up being the new assessment ratio.It's actually really easy to fill out the application and submit, but they will not respond and tell you whether or not it's been approved.

Avon, CT is a hot market, with multiple offers being received the weekend of the open house, which is scheduled one week after listing.My offer of $725,000 was $20,000 lower than the highest bid, but was accepted without counter because it was not contingent on financing, while the highest offer at $745,000, while the buyer had pre approval financing, was subject to financing.

I work with a great lender team that can get you an initial ‘Pre Approval’ or letter of intent. 

The ones that do ask you for a budget will scrutinize your planning and make sure they agree with your numbers prior to issuing a loan approval.