Spring is right around the corner — meaning that the homebuying season is going to start heating up in Des Moines. With warmer weather and longer days, it’s the perfect time of year to start looking for a new place to call home. But before you hit the open houses, there are a few things you ought to do in order to get ready. In this article, we’ll show you everything you need to know in order to make the most of the spring homebuying season in Des Moines.

Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Before you start shopping for a new home, it’s essential to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This process will give you a clear idea of the price range of homes you can afford to explore, and it will make you a more attractive buyer to sellers. To get pre-approved, you’ll need to provide your lender with financial information such as your income, debt, and credit score. Once you’re pre-approved, you can start shopping with confidence, knowing exactly how much you can afford to offer when you find a house you fall in love with.

Connect With a Local Real Estate Agent

Once you know what you can afford, it’s time to start searching for your dream home. One of the better ways to go about doing this is to work with a local real estate agent. They’ll have access to listings that may not be available online yet, which will give you a head start on house shoppers who are searching on their own. A local Realtor will also be able to walk you through the whole home buying process from beginning to end, sharing their professional insights and advice.

Attend Open Houses

As soon as you’re working with a local agent, it’s time to attend some open houses. This is your chance to see your potential new home in person, ask questions, and get a feel for the neighborhood. Take your time during these visits and don’t hesitate to ask your agent for their opinion.

Make an Offer

After attending some open houses, you’ve likely found a home that checks all the boxes. And – you guessed it! – making an offer is the next step! Your real estate agent can help you put together a strong offer that will stand out to the seller. Be prepared for negotiations, as the seller will very likely counter with a different price or terms. But with your pre-approval documentation, you’ll be in a great position to close the deal on your dream home.

The spring homebuying season in Des Moines is a fun and exciting time, but don't forget that proper preparation is key. By getting pre-approved and working with a reputable local Realtor, you'll be able to find your dream home with ease. So take advantage of the beautiful spring weather and prepare yourself for the homebuying journey ahead!


If you’d like to get pre-approved for a mortgage, or if we can recommend some experienced, local Realtors, please reach out to us. We’re always happy to help.