Strategies 4 Agents

You’ve decided to buy a home—now what? Here’s the fast-start plan:

1) Get your financial house in order: check all three credit reports, aim higher on score, pay down balances, and pause big purchases.
2) Get pre-approved: gather pay stubs, W-2s, 2 years of tax returns, bank/asset statements, and debt details. Shop homes after the letter is in hand.
3) Define your target: must-haves vs. nice-to-haves vs. deal-breakers. Research neighborhoods for commute, schools, amenities, and safety.
4) Organize documents: one digital folder for everything, including proof of bonuses or other income.
5) Avoid pitfalls: don’t change jobs, don’t open new credit, and don’t stretch beyond your comfort payment.
6) Think long-term: layout for remote work or a growing family, resale potential, and choose a great agent.

I’ll pin the full guide in the first comment—use it to shop smart and close smoothly.

You’ve decided it’s time to buy a home. Before the open houses, build your foundation:

• Step 1 — Financial Health: Pull all three credit reports, dispute errors, and aim higher on score for better pricing. Pause big-ticket purchases so your DTI stays clean and your approval isn’t jeopardized. Build savings for down payment, closing costs, and an emergency fund.

• Step 2 — Pre-Approval: Treat it like your golden ticket. Collect pay stubs, W-2s, 2 years of tax returns, bank/asset statements, and debt details. Lenders may verify employment. A strong letter keeps you focused on the right price range and strengthens offers.

• Step 3 — Define the Target: Make a clear list—must-haves, nice-to-haves, and deal-breakers. Research neighborhoods for commute, schools, amenities, safety, and future development. Think about how you’ll live there, not just the list price.

• Step 4 — Paperwork Ready: Centralize documents in one digital folder, including proof of bonuses, alimony, or other income sources. Staying organized prevents underwriting delays.

• Step 5 — Avoid Pitfalls: Don’t change jobs mid-process, don’t open new credit lines, and don’t spend to the max just because you’re approved. Stick to a realistic, all-in monthly budget.

• Step 6 — Future Potential: Look beyond today—layout for remote work or a growing family, features that support resale, and areas with sound appreciation potential.

• Step 7 — The Right Agent: An experienced agent helps you navigate inventory, negotiate effectively, and manage inspections, contracts, and closing timelines.

• Step 8 — Plan for the Unexpected: Be ready for bidding wars, appraisal gaps, or timing hiccups. Have a contingency plan so surprises don’t derail your goals.

I’ll pin the full article in the first comment—use it as your step-by-step guide from decision to keys.