Buying Your First Home? Read This First

Doing anything for the first time can feel intimidating. Buying your first home is no different. You can’t just see a home online, message the agent, and claim it. There’s a process and before you even schedule your first showing, there are key steps to take that will make the entire experience smoother. 

Here are five things to do before you start house hunting:

1. Organize your paperwork

Start gathering your financial documents before you look at homes. If you’re applying for a mortgage, you’ll need two years of tax returns, your last three months of bank statements, and current pay stubs. If you’re renting, have copies of your lease and recent rent checks ready.

This paperwork shows lenders that you’re a serious and qualified buyer. If you get this done early, you’ll move faster than others when the right home comes along.

2. Check your credit score

Your credit score affects the loan you can get. It impacts your interest rate, how much you can borrow, and what kind of loan you qualify for. A higher score can mean lower monthly payments.

Check your credit report for errors. Dispute anything that looks wrong. If your score is lower than expected, work on improving it. Pay down debts. Avoid late payments. Stay away from new credit cards. Wouldn’t you rather shop with confidence, knowing where you stand?

3. Get pre-approved for a mortgage

Don’t start viewing homes without a pre-approval. This letter tells you how much you can afford. It also shows sellers you’re ready and able to buy.

To get one, your lender will review your income, credit, and savings. That’s why your paperwork matters. In competitive markets, a pre-approval helps your offer stand out. Sellers feel more confident accepting it. Why risk missing out on a home because you weren’t ready?

4. Know what you need vs. what you want

Be clear on your priorities before you search. Make a list. Split it into “must-haves” and “would-like-to-haves.”

Do you need four bedrooms, or would three be enough? Is a fenced yard non-negotiable? Would a finished basement be nice, or is it a dealbreaker?

Focus on the features that match your lifestyle and daily needs. Square footage, number of bathrooms, school district—write them down. Nice-to-haves are bonuses. Don’t let them distract you from your real goals.

5. Work with a trusted real estate agent

You don’t have to figure this out on your own. A great agent knows the local market. They’ll help you spot the right homes, move quickly, and avoid mistakes.

Ask friends or family for referrals. Look for someone with experience in the neighborhoods you're considering. The right agent will listen to you, respect your budget, and keep things moving. Wouldn’t you rather have a guide you trust by your side?

Buying your first home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Start strong. Prepare before you search, and you’ll be ready to act when the right home shows up.