Do’s and Don’ts for Clients Getting Ready to Buy a Home

You’ve taken the first (and biggest!) step—reaching out to me to start your home buying journey. Now, let’s make sure you’re set up for success. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep your path smooth and your options wide open.

Here are some important “do’s” that you won’t want to forget:

• Do keep your finances steady.
  Avoid big changes in your financial life right now. Keep your job, pay your bills on time, and stay consistent with your income and savings. Lenders love stability—and so do I when advocating for you.

• Do ask every question.
  If you’re unsure about anything—mortgage terms, the process, even what to expect at closing—reach out. No question is too small, and my job is to make sure you feel confident and prepared every step of the way.

• Do gather your paperwork early.
  Start collecting pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and any other documents your lender might need. The more prepared you are, the faster (and less stressful) things will move.

• Do keep communication open.
  If anything changes in your situation—job, finances, plans—let me know right away. I’m here to help you navigate any curveballs.

• Do ask me for resources.
  From trusted lenders to inspectors, contractors, and moving companies, I have a network ready to support you. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.

• Do plan for moving costs.
  Beyond your down payment and closing costs, budget for things like utilities, movers, cleaning, and any immediate repairs or updates.

There are also some don’t’s to remember:

• Don’t take on new debt.
  Now is not the time to finance a new car, open a credit card, or make large purchases. Even small changes to your credit can impact your mortgage approval and terms.

• Don’t make large deposits or transfers.
  Lenders need to see a clear paper trail for your funds. Unexpected deposits or moving money between accounts can cause delays or raise red flags.

• Don’t ignore lingering questions or concerns.
  If something’s on your mind, bring it up. Whether it’s about the home search, the loan process, or next steps, I’m here to help you plan and feel at ease.

• Don’t change jobs without consulting your lender.
  Even a positive career move can complicate your mortgage process. If you’re considering a change, let’s talk about how it might affect your approval.

• Don’t skip the details.
  Review every document carefully, and don’t sign anything you don’t fully understand. I’m happy to walk through anything with you—no matter how small.

You’re not in this alone! My goal is to make your home buying experience as smooth and rewarding as possible. Keep this guide handy, and remember: I’m just a call or text away whenever you need advice or reassurance.