04/29/2026
Are you (or someone you know) shopping for your first home? Start the research process early by using these tips, or pass on to someone you think it could help!
CLEAN UP YOUR CREDIT. Your credit score will play a role in what interest rate you'll pay on your loan. Keep balances low on credit cards and don't open new lines of credit. Make payments on time and catch up on delinquent accounts.
TALK TO A LENDER. Talk to me, your trusted mortgage lender, to determine how much home you can afford. You may learn, because of all the down payment assistance programs available, that the monthly cost of owning a home is well within your budget.
FIND A REAL ESTATE AGENT. Once Pre-approved, ask an agent to start emailing you homes in your price range. Their knowledge of the home buying process, negotiating skills, and familiarity with the areas you want to live in can be very helpful! Ask me for a referral!