Buying a home can be scary as sh*t, right!?
I mean, especially when you have no idea what’s happening with the economy or where your life is headed?
And, there’s almost an overwhelming amount of info that is hard to decipher through. Where are do you even start!?!
So,…how the hell do you ACTUALLY buy a house?!
Whether you're dreaming of a 1910 bungalow with original woodwork, a mid-century ranch with a sunken living room, or something brand new and a little bit weird, we'll help you find the one, without the overwhelm. Here's how buying in Indy really works, from your first lender call to the day you get the keys. 🏡
Start Your Search See the StepsIndianapolis gives you something that's hard to find in a lot of cities: real neighborhoods with real personality, at a price that still leaves room in the budget for a new velvet couch. We're proud Indy locals, and we think it's a pretty magical place to put down roots.
Victorian, Craftsman, Tudor, foursquare. Indy's historic districts are packed with homes that have stories, and we know what to look for under the charm.
From atomic-era ranches to fresh new infill builds, there's a lot here for folks who like clean lines and big windows.
Compared to many big metros, your budget stretches in Indy, which means more house, more yard, or more room to breathe.
Part of our job is matching you to a neighborhood that fits your life, not just a house that fits your list. A few of our favorite places to explore:
Buying a home has a lot of moving parts, but it's very doable when someone's holding the map. Here's the path we'll walk together.
Before we start touring, get pre-approved. It tells you what you're comfortable spending, and it tells sellers you're ready to go. A pre-approval from a local lender who answers the phone and knows Indiana closings is worth its weight in gold. Quick online approvals can fall apart at the worst moment.
We'll sit down (coffee optional, but encouraged) and talk about what you need, what you'd love, and what you can live without. Then the fun part: touring. Don't be surprised if your must-have list shifts once you're walking through real homes. That's normal, and it's how you find the one.
Moving to Indy from out of town? We do video tours and neighborhood drive-throughs, so you can shop with confidence from anywhere.
A strong offer isn't always the biggest number. We look at recent sales, how long the home has been listed, and what the seller actually needs, then build an offer around it. That might mean:
Once your offer is accepted, it's time to look closely. Older homes especially deserve a thorough inspection, and in Indiana we always recommend a radon test, plus a sewer scope for older properties. If something comes up, we'll negotiate repairs, credits, or a price adjustment, firmly and kindly.
Your lender orders the appraisal, the title company does its thing, and we keep every deadline on track (our team is very good at deadlines). After a final walkthrough, you'll sign at the title company and walk out with your keys. 🗝️
Your down payment is the big one, but it's not the only check you'll write. Here's what to plan for, so nothing catches you off guard.
| Cost | What it is | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Earnest money | A good-faith deposit when your offer is accepted. It goes toward your purchase at closing. | Often $1,000 to 1% of the price, but it varies |
| Inspections | General inspection plus add-ons like radon, sewer scope, or termite. | About $400 to $900+, depending on the home |
| Appraisal | Required by most lenders to confirm the home's value. | Usually a few hundred dollars |
| Closing costs | Lender fees, title insurance, prepaid taxes and insurance, and more. | Roughly 2% to 5% of the purchase price |
| Taxes & insurance | Ongoing costs, usually rolled into your monthly mortgage payment. | Varies by home, location, and coverage |
These are general estimates for planning purposes only. Your lender will give you an official Loan Estimate with your actual numbers.
Let's find a lot to love!
Whether you're buying next month or just starting to daydream, we'd love to chat. No pressure, no sales pitch, just a friendly conversation about what home looks like for you.
Let's Talk Get Our Lender ListThankfully your girl used to be a social worker, and I’ve learned how to navigate those tricky situations like “feuding partners”. There isn’t much that shocks me because of my background … so I have the thick skin and the experience to help buyers and sellers during tough transactions.
Find A Lot To Love
4201 Millersville Rd, #209
Indianapolis, IN 46205
317-751-1669
