Charity Menefee, REALTOR® Bricktown ICT Realty

Buying roadmap

A clearer path from first questions to closing.

Buying a home involves a lot of decisions, but you don't have to think about all of them at once. Here's how the process typically unfolds and where I'll help along the way.

  1. Before serious home shopping

    Get financially ready.

    A lender can help you understand your loan options and what price range makes sense. The highest possible approval doesn't have to become your shopping target.

    Consider the full monthly housing picture:

    • Purchase price and expected loan payment
    • Property taxes and homeowners insurance
    • Association dues when they apply
    • Utilities, upkeep, and room in your budget

    I can keep the search aligned with your range while your lender handles financing advice.

  2. Before the listings take over

    Figure out what matters most.

    A focused search starts with how you want to live and the tradeoffs you can accept. I'll help separate must-haves from preferences.

    • Location and commute
    • Home size and layout
    • Lot, neighborhood, or acreage
    • Age, condition, and maintenance
    • Willingness to make updates

    Around Wichita, that may mean comparing established neighborhoods, newer suburbs, nearby communities, or land. The community guides can help you get oriented.

  3. Once serious showings begin

    Tour homes with a critical eye.

    In-person visits show how the layout, lot, condition, and surroundings work together beyond the listing photos.

    Look beyond the listing photos:

    • How the layout feels from room to room
    • Visible maintenance or condition concerns
    • Lot characteristics and neighboring properties
    • Items that deserve professional follow-up

    I'll track observations and follow-up questions. Qualified professionals should evaluate the home's systems and condition.

  4. When the right property appears

    Make an offer and do the homework.

    An offer combines price, financing, timing, contingencies, and other terms. I'll explain the tradeoffs behind each choice.

    Offer terms

    Look at the proposal as a whole, not only the headline price.

    Inspections

    An accepted offer doesn't end the investigation. Qualified professionals may need to evaluate the property.

    Decisions

    If inspections or other information bring up new questions, we'll go through them before you decide what to do next.

    Specific document, legal, or financial questions should go to the appropriate professionals.

  5. After acceptance

    Get from contract to closing.

    The path can vary, but several pieces may still need to come together.

    • Lender coordination and appraisal, when applicable
    • Title and closing work
    • Contract items and final walkthrough
    • Closing and transfer of ownership

    I'll organize deadlines, coordinate with the people involved, and make sure you know which item needs attention.

When you're ready

Where are you in the process?

Not sure where to start, or already looking at a particular home? Tell me what you're considering, and I'll help you figure out the next step.

Contact Me