Buying your first home in Delano can feel exciting and a little overwhelming. You want a clear plan, trustworthy guidance, and local know-how so you can move with confidence. In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn exactly how to get pre-approved, compare loans and assistance options, shop smart in Delano and Wright County, and close without surprises. Let’s dive in.

Start with budget and pre-approval

Getting your numbers right up front saves time and stress later.

• Review your credit. Pull your credit reports and check your score. Correct any errors and avoid new debt while you shop.
• Build a budget. Include your down payment, closing costs, moving expenses, and an emergency fund.
• Estimate your monthly payment. Factor in principal and interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance if required, HOA dues if applicable, and utilities.
• Get a written pre-approval. A full pre-approval defines your price range and makes your offer stronger. For help comparing lender estimates and fees, use the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s guidance on the Loan Estimate.

If you plan to use down payment assistance, complete a state-approved homebuyer education course early. Some programs require it before you can lock financing.

Know Delano-specific checks

Local details matter. Before you fall in love with a home, make sure it fits your needs and your loan program.

Utilities, wells, and septic

Confirm whether a home is on Delano city water and sewer or has a private well and septic. Loan programs can have different requirements for wells and septic systems, which can affect eligibility and timing. You can review utilities and permits with the City of Delano and confirm parcel details through Wright County.

Zoning, permits, and future plans

Check zoning, accessory dwelling unit rules, and any open permits. If a previous owner completed projects without permits, plan for compliance. The City of Delano can help you confirm planning and building details.

Floodplain and drainage

If a property sits near a river or low area, verify whether it is in a floodplain and whether flood insurance may be required. Review the FEMA Flood Map Service Center and ask your agent for guidance.

Commute and community

Test your commute times to your workplace and essential services. If transit access is important, verify current options rather than assuming availability. Drive the area at different times of day to check traffic patterns and noise.

Schools and boundaries

If school boundaries matter to you, confirm district lines and official sources. Review district information from Delano Public Schools and Minnesota Department of Education report cards to understand objective data.

Explore financing and assistance

The right loan and assistance can make your first home more accessible. Program rules and availability change, so verify current details before applying.

Common mortgage types

• Conventional loans. A good fit for buyers with moderate to strong credit. Often require mortgage insurance if you put less than 20 percent down.
• FHA loans. Allow lower down payment and more flexible credit criteria. Borrowers pay upfront and monthly mortgage insurance.
• VA loans. Designed for eligible veterans and service members. Confirm your eligibility with a lender who offers VA financing.
• USDA Rural Development loans. Offer competitive terms in designated areas and have income and property eligibility rules. Check property eligibility maps through USDA Rural Development.

Down payment and closing cost help

• Minnesota Housing programs. Minnesota Housing offers first-time buyer mortgages and assistance options statewide. Review current offerings at the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency.
• County or nonprofit programs. Availability varies. Check with Wright County-related resources and local housing counseling agencies for leads and guidance.
• Employer or nonprofit assistance. Some employers and community organizations offer grants or forgivable loans. Verify eligibility and use rules.

Before applying, consider completing homebuyer education with a HUD-approved agency. You can find counselors through HUD’s housing counseling resources.

Shop lenders the smart way

You have choices. Comparing offers can save you thousands over the life of your loan.

• Get multiple Loan Estimates. Request a written Loan Estimate from at least two or three lenders on the same day to compare apples to apples.
• Ask about rate locks. Typical locks cover 30 to 60 days. Confirm how your rate is protected and if extensions cost extra.
• Review total costs, not just the rate. Compare lender fees, mortgage insurance, and monthly payment at your target price point.
• Prepare your documents. Common requests include a photo ID, recent pay stubs, two years of W-2s and tax returns, bank statements, and explanations for large deposits.

House hunting in Delano

With your pre-approval in hand, you can focus on homes that fit your budget and lifestyle.

Narrow priorities

Filter by price, bed and bath count, lot size, commute window, and any HOA rules. Tour multiple homes and drive the surrounding streets to evaluate traffic flow, parking, and lot drainage. In Minnesota, winter conditions make roof age, insulation, and heating systems especially important.

Make a strong offer

Base your offer on a comparative market analysis of recent sales, not just the list price. Typical offer components include:

• Earnest money deposit that shows good faith
• Contingencies for financing, inspection, and clear title
• Requested closing timeline that aligns with your lender’s rate lock
• Possible seller concessions for closing costs or repairs

Your agent can help you calibrate terms to current market conditions in Delano and nearby towns.

Inspections and due diligence

Inspections protect you from costly surprises. In addition to a general home inspection, consider:

• Septic system inspection and well water testing for properties not on city services
• Radon testing, which is common in Minnesota homes. Learn more from the Minnesota Department of Health’s radon resources
• Specialized inspections as needed for chimneys, pests, mold, or structural concerns
• Lead-based paint disclosures and testing for homes built before 1978
• A survey to confirm boundaries and easements if one is not available

Your lender will also order an appraisal to confirm the property value. The appraisal is separate from inspections and may note issues relevant to financing.

From offer to closing

Once your offer is accepted, the timeline to closing is usually 30 to 60 days, depending on loan type and contingencies.

Key steps and documents

• Closing Disclosure. Your lender will provide a Closing Disclosure several days before closing. Review it closely to confirm your final rate, payments, and costs.
• Title work and insurance. Title professionals will run a title search to confirm clear ownership and issue lender and buyer title insurance policies.
• Final walk-through. Complete a walk-through shortly before closing to verify repairs are done and the property is in agreed condition.
• Keys and recording. After funds and documents are finalized, the deed is recorded with Wright County, and you receive keys.

Costs to plan for

• Down payment per your loan program
• Closing costs including lender fees, title and escrow, prepaids, and taxes
• Property taxes based on Wright County assessments. For tax information and homestead classification, start with Wright County
• Homeowners insurance and, if required, mortgage insurance
• HOA fees if applicable
• Maintenance and future replacements. A common rule of thumb is to set aside 1 to 3 percent of your home’s value each year for upkeep

After you move in

• Transfer utilities and services for electric, water, trash, and internet. The City of Delano can help with municipal accounts.
• Update your address with USPS, your employer, banks, and subscriptions.
• File for homestead status if eligible through Wright County to ensure correct property tax classification.
• Set a seasonal maintenance routine. In Minnesota, this often includes winterizing, cleaning gutters, testing sump pumps, and scheduling HVAC service.

Your local partner in the process

When you are buying your first home, having a steady guide makes all the difference. A local agent who understands Delano, Wright County, and nearby communities can help you compare neighborhoods, spot red flags early, and coordinate the many moving parts from pre-approval to closing. With a White Glove, concierge-style approach and a trusted partner network, you can lean on experts for lender introductions, inspectors, and title professionals while you focus on the big decisions.

If you are ready to get started, reach out for a friendly first-time buyer consult. You will get clear next steps, a tailored home search plan, and a local team by your side from offer to keys.

Unknown Company is here to help.

FAQs

What are the first steps for a first-time buyer in Delano?

• Start by reviewing your credit, setting a budget, and getting a written pre-approval from a lender. Then connect with a local agent who knows Wright County and Delano.

How do I check if a Delano home has city water and sewer?

• Review the listing details and confirm with the seller, then verify with the City of Delano and Wright County records.

Are there down payment assistance options in Minnesota?

• Yes. The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency offers programs for eligible first-time buyers. Availability and income limits change, so check current guidelines.

Is USDA financing available in Wright County?

• Some areas may qualify, depending on property location and household income limits. Check the USDA Rural Development eligibility maps.

Do I really need a home inspection in Minnesota?

• Yes. A general inspection plus radon testing and, if applicable, well and septic inspections are recommended. For radon information, see the Minnesota Department of Health.

How long does closing take after my offer is accepted?

• Most purchases close within 30 to 60 days, depending on your loan type, appraisal timing, and contingency deadlines.

How can I see if a property is in a flood zone?

• Review the FEMA Flood Map Service Center and ask your agent and lender about flood insurance requirements.

Where can I find a HUD-approved housing counselor?

• Use HUD’s search tool to find local, approved agencies for education and guidance: HUD housing counseling resources.