Ready to Buy? A First Time Home Buyer's Guide for Couples & Savvy Solo Buyers

You’ve reached a milestone. Whether you’re a couple ready to build a life together or a single individual making a powerful investment in your future, buying your first home is a major step. This isn't just about finding a house; it's about laying a foundation for your next chapter.

The process can seem complicated, but it doesn't have to be. Here’s a quick, no-nonsense guide to the four most important things you need to do right now.

1. Get Your Financial House in Order

It's easy to drive around town looking for open houses and dream-build.  But before doing so, you'll need to get a clear picture of your finances. This is the foundation of a successful purchase.

• For Couples: This means having open conversations about your combined income, debt, and credit scores. Decide together on a comfortable monthly payment.

• For Solo Buyers: Know your numbers inside and out. Your strong financial standing is your biggest asset.

The goal is the same for both: get a mortgage pre-approval. A lender will verify your finances and give you a letter stating exactly how much you can borrow. This letter is your golden ticket—it shows that you’re a serious buyer and defines your realistic price range. Don't forget to budget for closing costs, which are typically an extra 2%−5% of the purchase price.

2. Align on the Vision (Needs vs. Wants)

This step is critical for avoiding future regrets. A good activity is this: On a piece of paper, create two columns: "Must-Haves" and "Nice-to-Haves."

• Must Have: These are your non-negotiables. Think: three bedrooms for a growing family, a safe neighborhood, a home office for remote work, or a low-maintenance yard.

• Nice-to-Have: These are the bonuses you'd love but could live without, for example a soaking tub or high ceilings. 

For couples, this exercise ensures you're working toward a shared goal. For solo buyers, it keeps you laser-focused on what truly matters for your lifestyle and long-term happiness.

3. Assemble Your Professional Team

You're the "boss" of this purchase, but you need a great team. The most important hire is a qualified real estate agent.

Your agent is your advocate, negotiator, and guide. They have deep market knowledge and will manage the multitude of details involved in a transaction. They can connect you with trusted lenders and inspectors, and their job is to protect your interests. Best of all, a buyer's agent's commission is almost always paid by the seller, so their expertise comes at no direct cost to you. 

4. Trust the Inspection, Not Just Your Eyes

Now that you found a home and your offer was accepted—congratulations! The most crucial step for protecting your investment is the home inspection.

A professional inspector will examine the home's core components (roof, foundation, electrical, plumbing, HVAC) and give you a detailed report. This is your safety net. It uncovers hidden, potentially expensive problems that you can't see during a walkthrough. The report gives you the power to negotiate with the seller for repairs or, if the issues are too severe, to walk away from the deal. Never, ever skip the inspection.

This purchase is more than a transaction—it's a foundation for your future. By focusing on these key steps, you can move forward with clarity and confidence. Happy house hunting!

Let’s connect today! -Grace