This past weekend I had the pleasure of sitting down with a couple buying their very first home, and it reminded me of something. It's been a while since I talked through the handful of things you really should know before you jump into buying your first place. So here's a short list, about four items, to think about before you start your search. Here's my one hint before we start: this isn't meant to be overwhelming. I just want you prepared. Let's jump right in.

First, you don't need 20% down. The down payment is the first thing everyone brings up, and it matters, so it belongs at the top of the list. I want to clear up the myth that you need 20% down before you can even start looking. You don't. You have real options beyond a 20% down payment, and knowing that alone changes what feels possible when you begin your search.

Second, budget for your closing costs. Everyone talks about the down payment, but there's a second piece you have to plan for, and that's your closing costs. When you're figuring out how much money you actually have available, remember it isn't just the down payment. Set aside money for closing costs too, and build both into your number from the start.

Third, talk to your lender early. Before you fall for all those wonderful homes out there, wouldn't it be nice to look at a house and know right away whether you can afford it? Most people would say yes. The way to get there is to talk with your lender ahead of time. That early conversation is how you find out what you can actually afford, so you're shopping with real numbers instead of guessing.

Fourth, lean on your agent for all three. Here's the piece that ties the first three together. The agent you work with can help you with every one of them. I can get you in front of a lender to sit down and talk it through, walk you through options beyond 20% down, and explain what's standard for closing costs. All three of those are things I'd recommend doing so you're better prepared, and honestly, so finding the right home turns into the fun part instead of the stressful one.

That's the whole list. Get those four things lined up, and you'll walk into your search ready, not overwhelmed. If this helped, I'd love for you to share it with someone else getting ready to buy. If you have any questions, please call or text me at (703) 216-4272, email me at terrirobinson@remax.net, or visit liveinva.com to check home values and browse local listings. I'm always happy to help.