What is the very FIRST step to take when buying and WHEN should you do it?
Are you dreaming of owning a home this year? You may be wondering what steps you should be taking now, to ensure you can make homeownership happen on your timeline (even if you’re not planning on buying until later this year or in 2026).
Should you contact your real estate agent, start searching homes on Zillow, or reach out to your lender first? And when should you start this process?
Keep reading for our two cents on what to do NOW if you plan on buying in the next two years.
Why Your Homebuying Journey Should Start with a Free Planning Consultation
Call us biased, but we believe the first step should always be scheduling a free planning consultation with your mortgage broker—Here’s why this is so important!
Bust Common Homebuying Myths: Many buyers hold on to misconceptions that delay their journey:
You do NOT need 20% down to buy a home.
You do NOT need to have been at your job for two years.
You do NOT need a 700+ credit score.
You CAN buy a home with mortgage rates in the 4% or 5% range right now.
A free planning consultation with our team will clear up these myths and ensure you’re moving forward with accurate information.
Personalized Homebuying Plan: The sooner you discuss your financial situation with a mortgage broker, the better your personalized homebuying plan will be. By evaluating your income, credit score, and long-term goals, your broker can craft a strategy tailored just for you.
When Should You Schedule a Planning Consult?
If you plan to buy a home within the next two years, now is the time to start planning. Early preparation helps you:
Address any potential credit issues.
Boost your savings.
Time your home purchase to lock in favorable rates.
After the consultation, what comes next?
After our consult call, if you decide you are ready to buy in the next couple of months we will get you pre-approved!
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage in California helps you know exactly how much home you can afford. This saves time and ensures you only look at homes within your price range.
When Should You Get Pre-Approved?
Ideally, 30-90 days before you start house hunting. Pre-approval ensures you:
Shop with confidence, knowing your exact budget.
Move quickly when you find the perfect home.
How to Get Pre-Approved
Provide income documentation, credit history, and assets.
The process is straightforward, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
The Benefits of Early Pre-Approval
Save Time and Reduce Stress: Knowing your borrowing capacity means you won’t waste time looking at homes outside your budget.
Lock in Your Interest Rate: Pre-approval can lock in your interest rate for a set period, protecting you if rates rise while you’re shopping.
Boost Your Negotiation Power: In a hot market, pre-approved buyers have a significant advantage. Sellers are more likely to negotiate with buyers who can close quickly.
The foundation of a successful homebuying experience begins with a free planning consultation and mortgage pre-approval. By working with an experienced mortgage broker at Brizzi Financial, you’ll gain the knowledge, confidence, and competitive edge you need in today’s market.
If you’re thinking of buying a home in the next two years, don’t wait—let’s discuss your options and create a plan that works for you. Contact us today for your free consultation and get pre-approved with a California mortgage expert.