Thinking about buying a home? 🏠 It’s exciting, but we know it can feel overwhelming too. Don’t worry—we’ve got your back! Let’s break it down and get you closer to unlocking that front door.

Step 1: How Much Home Can You Afford?

This is the big question, and we’ll make it simple:

• Connect with a qualified lender (trust us, a pro beats an online lender every time 🚀❌).
• Get a cost sheet and pre-approval. This is your golden ticket to house hunting! 🎟️

Step 2: Timing is Everything (or is it?)

The truth? No one can predict the market perfectly. Rates might go up, or they might go down. Here’s the good news: if rates drop after you buy, you can refinance and save!

Step 3: Consider ALL the Costs

Buying a home isn’t just about the sticker price. Don’t forget about:

• Taxes, insurance, and utilities 🌟
• Pre-paid costs like inspections, appraisals, and that initial deposit (AKA hand money).

Step 4: How Lenders Decide What You Can Afford

Your lender will look at your debt-to-income ratio (how much you earn vs. how much you owe each month). This helps them figure out your budget—and no, they’re not guessing!

Step 5: Cash Rules Everything

Different programs allow for different down payments. The more cash you have ready, the smoother the process. And don’t forget those pre-paid costs—having them upfront is key to going under contract without stress.

Finally, work with an agent who listens to your budget! A great agent is like a GPS—they’ll guide you to your dream home without steering you off course.

Now’s the time to make your move—literally! Ready to chat about the next steps? Hit reply and let’s start planning.

Happy scrolling,
Gunnar

Your Zillow Guru

P.S. Want to know more insider tips or have questions about how Zillow works? Just hit reply—I’m happy to help!

Meet Gunnar

After experiencing firsthand how stressful buying a home can be, I realized so many others feel the same way—overwhelmed, unsure, and inundated with information. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to teach people the best way to buy a home in Pittsburgh. Whether you’re just starting to browse or getting ready to make a move, I’m here to simplify the process, share insider tips, and make buying a home an exciting, stress-free experience.