09/09/2026
๐ก 10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME
Thinking about buying your first home? Before you start scrolling through houses and imagining where the furniture is going ๐, there are a few things you should know.
1. Check your credit first.
Know where you stand before you start looking at homes. Even if your credit isn't where you want it to be yet, knowing what's there gives you somewhere to start.
2. Talk to a lender BEFORE you start house shopping.
Getting pre-approved helps you understand what you may qualify for, what your payment could look like, and whether you're actually ready to start shopping.
3. You may not need as much money as you think.
There are different loan programs and down-payment assistance programs that may be available depending on your situation. Don't automatically count yourself out because you don't have a huge down payment saved.
4. But don't spend every dollar getting into the house.
You'll still have moving expenses, inspections, possible repairs, furniture and regular LIFE after you get those keys. ๐
5. What you're approved for and what you're comfortable paying can be two different numbers.
You still want to be able to live, pay your bills, save money and enjoy yourself after buying your home. You don't have to spend your maximum approval amount.
6. Don't make major financial moves while you're trying to buy.
That new car or furniture set can wait! ๐ Talk to your lender before opening new credit, financing something or making a large purchase.
7. Your mortgage payment is more than just the price of the house.
Taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance and HOA fees (when applicable) can all affect your monthly payment.
8. Get the inspection.
A house can look beautiful and still have problems you can't see. An inspection can give you a much better understanding of what you're actually buying.
9. Think beyond the house itself.
Consider the neighborhood, commute, taxes, location, your future plans and whether the home makes sense for your life, not just whether you love the kitchen. ๐
10. You DON'T have to figure all of this out by yourself.
That's what your team is for. Your REALTORยฎ, lender, inspector and other professionals help guide you through the process.
โค๏ธ And here's the biggest thing I want first-time buyers to know:
You don't have to already be โreadyโ just to ask questions.
If homeownership is something you're thinking about, even if you're not sure about your credit, down payment or where to begin, reach out. We can figure out where you are now and what your next step should be.
No pressure. Just information, a plan and a place to start. ๐ก
Keysha Toran, REALTORยฎ
eXp Realty
