Home Buyer Tips:

Get Ready for Homeownership

  • 1. Know Your Budget

    Before falling in love with a home, know what you can comfortably afford. Review your income, expenses, and savings to determine a monthly mortgage payment that works for you—not just what you’re approved for.

  • 2. Check Your Credit Score

    Your credit score impacts your loan approval and interest rate. Aim to clean up any errors and pay down debts to improve your score before applying.

  • 3. Start Saving Early

    You’ll need funds for a down payment, closing costs, and move-in expenses. Even if you qualify for down payment assistance, having savings gives you flexibility and peace of mind.

  • 4. Get Pre-Approved, Not Just Pre-Qualified

    Pre-approval gives you a more accurate picture of your buying power and shows sellers you’re serious—strengthening your offer in a competitive market.

  • 5. Avoid Major Financial Changes

    Once you’ve begun the buying process, try not to open new credit lines, make large purchases, or change jobs. These can affect your mortgage approval.

  • 6. Make a List of Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves

    Knowing what features are essential helps you stay focused when viewing homes—and helps me better guide you to the right fit.

  • 7. Understand the True Costs of Ownership

    Homeownership comes with more than a mortgage—budget for utilities, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and possible HOA fees.

  • 8. Stay Educated Throughout the Process

    Real estate can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to guide you every step of the way. I’ll explain each phase so you always know what’s coming next—no surprises.

  • 9. Think Long-Term

    Buy with your future in mind. Consider how long you plan to stay, your lifestyle needs, and how the home may fit your family in years to come.

  • 10. Work with the Right Team

    Surround yourself with a strong support system—a trusted real estate agent, a reliable lender, and a responsive title company—to ensure a smooth transaction.

Interview Your Realtor— It Matters!

Choosing the right real estate agent is a big step in your home buying journey. This person will guide you through contracts, negotiations, and emotional decisions—so it’s important to find someone you trust and connect with.

Here are a few questions to ask when interviewing an agent:

  1. How long have you been in real estate?
  2. What areas do you specialize in?
  3. How do you communicate with clients? (Text, phone, email, etc.)
  4. What’s your availability for showings?
  5. Can you explain the buying process from start to finish?
  6. How do you help buyers stay competitive in today’s market?
  7. Do you work independently or with a team?
  8. What happens if I have questions after hours or on weekends?

My Approach:

I believe buying a home should feel empowering—not overwhelming. With over a decade of experience in the behind-the-scenes world of real estate, I bring patience, transparency, and clear communication to every step of the process. If you're ready to talk, I’m here to listen—no pressure, just a conversation.