Start with the monthly number
Build a comfortable housing budget that includes taxes, insurance, HOA costs, utilities, maintenance, and reserves.
First-time buyers
Your first home purchase, explained step by step.
You do not need to know every real estate term before you begin. I’ll help you understand the process, ask the right questions, and make each decision with more confidence.
The roadmap
Six steps before you get the keys.
Every purchase is different, but these are the main steps you can expect.
Talk with a licensed lender
Compare loan options, documentation, cash requirements, and the difference between prequalification and a reviewed preapproval.
Understand your representation
Review the services, responsibilities, and compensation in your written buyer agreement before touring homes.
Search with local filters
Add roof age, insurance questions, flood information, property condition, utilities, and restrictions to the usual bedroom and price filters.
Protect your purchase
Discuss inspection, financing, appraisal, title, and other contract terms with the right professionals.
Prepare for ownership
Keep reserves for moving, immediate repairs, routine maintenance, and costs that do not appear in the mortgage payment.
Cash to close
The down payment is only one part of the number.
Depending on the transaction, buyers may also need funds for inspections, appraisal, lender and title charges, insurance, prepaid taxes, escrow reserves, moving, and immediate work after closing. Credits and earnest money can change the final figure.
Use the closing-cost estimatorA clear next step
Your first conversation is not a commitment.
Bring your questions, rough budget, and timing. I’ll help you understand what to do next.