As a real estate agent who has worked with first-time buyers for over 9 years, I’ve seen the challenges and triumphs of navigating the homebuying process. If you’re considering buying your first home, here are some essential tips I wish every first-time buyer knew—straight from my experience helping many buyers just like you.

1. Start with a Budget—And Stick to It

Saving for a home starts with having a clear, realistic budget. I recommend creating a budget every two weeks, breaking it down into categories like groceries, dining out, and entertainment. For flexible categories, use cash to stay disciplined—once the cash is gone, that’s it until the next cycle. And if you have leftover cash at the end of the two weeks, move it directly into your home savings! This strategy ensures you’re consistently putting money aside and helps you stay focused on your goal.

2. Automate Your Savings for Success

One of the best ways to save for a home is by automating your savings. Set up recurring transfers to an online savings account (like Marcus or Ally) that offers higher interest rates and makes it harder to access the money. This reduces the temptation to spend on impulse buys. You can also create separate “buckets” within your savings account for things like your down payment, closing costs, and inspections. Staying organized will help you track your progress and stay motivated along the way.

3. Cut Out Unnecessary Expenses

Take a close look at where your money is going. After reviewing several months of bank statements, I realized how much we were spending on dining out—something I could easily cut back on. By redirecting these savings into my home fund, I was able to make significant progress. Small changes, like cooking at home or reducing discretionary spending, can add up quickly. You’d be amazed at how much more you can save just by adjusting your everyday habits.

4. Save Refunds and Windfalls

When you receive unexpected money—whether it's a tax refund, a work bonus, or a gift—put it directly into your home savings instead of letting it disappear into general spending. These extra funds can provide a significant boost toward covering home inspections, appraisals, or other expenses that come up during the homebuying process.

5. Plan Ahead to Protect Your Savings

Life doesn’t stop while you’re saving for a home, but planning ahead for big expenses, like vacations or family events, is key to staying on track. If you know a large expense is coming, plan for it so that you don’t have to dip into your home savings to cover it. This will keep you focused on your long-term goal and help protect your home savings.

6. Talk to a Lender and Realtor Early—It’s Key!

Talking to a trusted, experienced lender early on is essential. They can give you a clear picture of your financial situation and help you determine what you qualify for. A lender can also walk you through down payment assistance programs, like USDA Loans (which don’t require a down payment for rural and suburban homes) or CalHFA programs (which can assist with down payments and closing costs in California).

Additionally, talking to a lender early helps you understand how much you need to save, what debts to pay off, and what your credit score is and whether it needs improvement. Getting this information early allows you to make informed decisions and sets you up for success when applying for a mortgage.

But it doesn’t stop there. Working with a trusted real estate agent (like me!) early in the process is just as important. We can review the entire homebuying process together, so you understand each step and know what to expect. From finding the right home to navigating negotiations and closing the deal, having a real estate expert on your side ensures you’re well-prepared every step of the way.

The Bottom Line
Saving for your first home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With thoughtful planning, smart savings habits, and guidance from a trusted lender and real estate agent, you can get closer to your goal every day. From budgeting to automating savings and taking advantage of down payment assistance programs, every step you take moves you closer to homeownership.

If you’re ready to start your homebuying journey, reach out! As a real estate agent with over 9 years of experience working with first-time buyers, I’m here to guide you through the process, connect you with trusted lenders, and ensure you’re set up for success from start to finish.