The New Year is a season of fresh starts—and Fort Wayne offers the perfect setting to begin your next chapter. With its affordable housing, growing job market, and strong sense of community, this city has become a top choice for those looking to lay down lasting roots.

Ready to take the first step? Here’s how to kickstart your search and make 2025 the year you find your forever home.

1. Get Pre-Approved and Set Your Budget

The first step in the home-buying process is understanding what you can afford. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is essential—it gives you a clear budget, helps narrow your search, and signals to sellers that you’re a serious buyer.

During this stage, your lender will review your financial details and provide a pre-approval letter. Keep in mind that additional costs like taxes, insurance, and potential repairs should factor into your budget. Being financially prepared will save you time and prevent surprises down the road. Contact us for local lender partners and advisors to get started. 

2. Define Your Goals and Priorities

Next, create a wish list that outlines what you need and want in your new home. Consider how many bedrooms and bathrooms you require, whether a garage or spacious backyard is a priority, and what kind of neighborhood suits your lifestyle best. The RFG has a tailored Home Buyers Needs Analysis that can help you craft and hone that wish list. 

Separating your list into must-haves and nice-to-haves can help you stay focused. Having a clear vision of your priorities will make your search more efficient. 

3. Partner With Local Experts

Navigating Fort Wayne’s real estate market is seamless with seasoned professionals by your side. The Regan + Ferguson Group—ranked the area's #1 team in 2022, 2023, and 2024—is a top-producing team with deep local roots, uniquely equipped to guide you through every step of the process. We are more than your average team—we’re defined by unmatched marketplace expertise, a vast network, and a commitment to excellence.

With expertise and access to exclusive tools like the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), you’ll be notified of homes that meet your criteria before they hit public platforms like Zillow or Realtor.com. Using Client Connect, you’ll be able to mark homes as “favorites,” “possible,” or “reject,” keeping your search organized and efficient.

4. Start Touring Homes

Now comes the exciting part—viewing potential homes! As your agent schedules showings, take notes and photos of each property to help you remember important details later. Compare each home to your wish list and note how well it meets your needs or where compromises might be acceptable.

If a property stands out but you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to revisit it—sometimes a second look can solidify your decision. Stay open-minded but focused on your priorities to find the best fit. Trust your experienced agent to help guide you through this process. 

5. Make an Offer

When you find The One, your agent will help you craft a competitive offer. This step often involves negotiating terms, including price, contingencies, and closing timelines. Patience and flexibility are essential during this phase, as it may take a few back-and-forth discussions to reach an agreement.

After your offer is accepted, the final stages typically include:

• Scheduling inspections to ensure the home is in good condition.
• Coordinating with your lender to finalize your loan.
• Preparing for closing day, where you’ll sign the necessary documents and receive the keys to your new home.

Once everything is complete, it’s time to move in and start making your house a home.

Tips for a Smooth Home Search in Fort Wayne

• Trust the process: Buying a home is one of life’s biggest investments, so take your time and trust your agent to guide you.
• Stay flexible: Sometimes your dream home may require a compromise or a slight adjustment to your wish list.
• Ask questions: Whether it’s about financing, the inspection process, or neighborhood amenities, your agent is there to help.

Let the Journey Begin

Your dream home in Fort Wayne is closer than you think, and the Regan + Ferguson Group is here to guide you every step of the way. Ranked nationally on Real Trends’ America’s Best list for medium-sized teams, we’re in the top 1% nationwide and the highest-ranked team in Fort Wayne and Northeast Indiana. Our agents are also part of the top 1.5% of Realtors® in the country, reflecting our dedication and our clients’ trust.