How Long Does It Take to Buy a House From Start to Finish? A First-Time Homebuyer Guide

If you’re thinking about buying your first home, one of the biggest questions you probably have is: “How long does the homebuying process actually take?”
And that’s a great question, because the more you understand the timeline, the more confident and prepared you’ll feel.

As a Las Cruces Realtor who works with first-time homebuyers every week, I know how important it is to have a clear roadmap. So let’s break it all down step-by-step, from the moment you decide to start looking to the moment you get the keys in your hand.

Average Homebuying Timeline: 30–60 Days (Once Under Contract)

Most buyers in Las Cruces can expect the entire process to take 1 to 3 months, depending on their readiness, the lender’s speed, and the type of loan they choose.
But if we break it into phases, it’s a lot easier to understand.

Phase 1: Getting Ready (1–2 Weeks)

This is the pre-approval and prep stage, and it’s arguably the most important part.

Steps in this phase:

• Finding a trusted Realtor (hi 👋)

• Talking with a lender

• Getting pre-approved

• Setting your budget and must-haves

Pro Tip:
A strong pre-approval letter can fast-track your entire process and helps you make competitive offers.

Phase 2: Home Shopping (1–4 Weeks)

This part varies the most. Some buyers fall in love with a home on Day 1; others need a few weeks to explore neighborhoods, compare prices, and make sure they’re choosing the right fit.

What affects the timing:

• Inventory in Las Cruces

• Your schedule for showings

• Competition from other buyers

• How specific your criteria are

I always help my first-time buyers save time by planning efficient showing routes so we aren’t driving all over town.

Phase 3: Making an Offer & Getting Under Contract (1–3 Days)

Once you find the right home, things move quickly:

• I prepare your offer

• We negotiate terms

• Once accepted, the home is officially “under contract”

Congratulations — this is where the excitement really kicks in!

Phase 4: Inspections & Appraisal (1–3 Weeks)

This is the due diligence period.

What happens here:

• Home inspection

• Repair negotiations

• Appraisal ordered by the lender

• Appraisal results returned

Inspections typically happen within the first 7–10 days. The appraisal can take 1–2 weeks, depending on the lender’s schedule.

Phase 5: Loan Finalization (1–3 Weeks)

Your lender finishes up underwriting, verifies documents, and prepares the loan for closing.

During this time, my job is to keep communication smooth and ensure everything is on track.

Phase 6: Closing Day (1 Day!)

This is the best day of the entire journey.
You sign your final documents, get your keys, and officially become a homeowner.

In New Mexico, most closings take 30–60 minutes, and you’re done!

So… How Long Does It REALLY Take?

If you’re prepared and work with the right Realtor and lender, you can typically close on a home in 30–45 days after your offer is accepted.

From the moment you start looking, the full process usually takes 6 to 10 weeks.

Ready to Start Your Homebuying Journey?

Buying your first home should feel exciting — not overwhelming.
If you’re thinking about taking the next step, I’d love to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you feel confident every step of the way.

Send me a message anytime. I’m here to help you buy your first home in Las Cruces with clarity, confidence, and zero stress.