What First-Time Buyers Should Know Before Starting

1) Get your budget & credit ready

• Monthly comfort number: Back into a price using a payment you can actually live with.
• Credit snapshot: Check scores, fix errors, and avoid new debt/late payments during the process.
• Down payment & reserves: Plan for down payment, closing costs, and a small emergency buffer.

2) Get a firm pre-approval

A full underwritten pre-approval strengthens your offer and helps you lock the right rate strategy.

3) Define your timeline & search criteria

• Target move-in window (and lease end dates if renting).
• Must-haves vs. nice-to-haves (beds, commute, schools, HOA, etc.).
• Neighborhoods that fit both lifestyle and budget.

4) Choose the right agent-compare proposals

Experience, communication style, and incentives matter. Compare multiple licensed agents who compete to earn your business.