Everything you need to know about buying a home, in 7 steps

It takes a lot of organization, careful thought, and, of course, money.

But if you're serious about becoming a homeowner, you need to get prepared for the road ahead.

To help out, Business Insider consulted Dana Bull, a realtor with Sotheby's International in Boston, and George Chedid, a realtor with Century 21 Barrood in Kendall Park, New Jersey, to put together a timeline of the homebuying process.

Below, check out the seven steps you'll take to buy a house, from teaming up with a realtor and finding out what you can afford to closing on the deal, and everything in between.