First-TIME HOMEBUYER? HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE MARKET IN SEATTLE

Buying your first home is one of life’s biggest milestones—and if you’re anything like most first-time buyers I work with, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement, confusion, and maybe a little stress. That’s completely normal. The truth is, you don’t need to know everything right away. You just need a solid understanding of the basics and someone you trust to guide you through the process.

The very first step is getting clear on your budget. It’s tempting to start house hunting right away, but knowing your financial boundaries will save you time, energy, and potential heartache. This means speaking with a lender early on to find out how much you can borrow, but more importantly, how much you should borrow. Your monthly payment won’t just include your mortgage—it could also cover property taxes, homeowners insurance, and possibly HOA dues. And don’t forget day-to-day costs like utilities and regular maintenance. Just because you’re approved for a certain amount doesn’t mean you should max out your budget. Be realistic and build in a cushion for unexpected expenses. It’ll make owning a home a lot less stressful.

One of the most common myths I hear is that you need 20% down to buy a home. The truth? You absolutely don’t. There are plenty of loan programs out there—some offering as little as 3% down—designed specifically for first-time buyers. Depending on where you’re buying and your income level, you may even qualify for local or state assistance programs that help with your down payment or closing costs. This is why it’s so important to work with a lender who knows the area and can explain your options clearly. The right financing can open up more possibilities than you might expect.