First Time Home Buyer?

to
to
to
to
Min year must be before or the same as Max year
to

Get a REALTOR® who has Your Back

Buying your first home can be intimidating, and that's why it's so important to have an agent you will have you back at all times.

My goal is to simplify the process, making sure you’re informed, prepared, and confident every step of the way. From setting realistic expectations to helping you understand your financing options, I’m here to ensure that your first home-buying experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Let’s turn your homeownership dream into reality—together.

My #1 priority is looking out for all your best interests.

"The ache for a home lives in all of us, the safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned."
Get a REALTOR® who has Your Back
Maya Angelou
American Memoirist & Poet

Should I Continue to Rent or Buy a Home?

Buying a home is a big decision, and it depends on your financial situation, lifestyle, and long-term goals. If you’re ready to invest in your future, build equity, and have more control over your living space, buying may be the right move. However, if you prefer flexibility, lower upfront costs, and fewer responsibilities, renting might be a better fit.

What are the Biggest Financial Differences between Renting and Buying?

 

  • Renting: Monthly rent payments don’t build equity and can increase over time. You’re not responsible for maintenance or repairs
  • Buying: Mortgage payments can be stable with a fixed-rate loan, and each payment builds home equity. However, you’ll be responsible for property taxes, insurance, and upkeep.

    •  

    What are Some Long-Term Benefits of Buying a Home?

  • You build equity as you pay down your mortgage.
  • Home values tend to appreciate over time, increasing your investment.
  • You can customize your space however you want.
  • You may qualify for tax benefits like mortgage interest deductions.

    • When is Renting the Better Option?

  • You’re not sure how long you’ll stay in one place.
  • Your financial situation is still stabilizing (e.g., building credit or saving for a down payment).
  • You prefer less responsibility for maintenance and repairs.
  • You’re in a market where buying is significantly more expensive than renting.

    • How Do I Know if I’m Financially Ready to Buy a Home?

    Income/Employement
    You should have a steady income and stable employment. A common misconception is that you must have at least two years of steady employment history in the same field to qualify for a mortgage; however, there are plenty of exceptions.
    Credit
    You should have a solid credit score. Typically, a score of 620+ will mean you're eligible for most loan programs, although some are designed for those with a score as low as 580.
    Savings
    Standard mortgage loans require some form of down-payment (3-20%), although there are plenty of programs with down-payment assistance, and others that do not require one. In many circumstances, a seller may be willing to cover all, or a portion of your closing costs as well.
    Debt
    You'll want to have a comfortable debt-to-income ratio (DTI) that allows you to afford a monthly mortgage payment. A general rule is that your monthly housing costs (including mortgage, taxes, and insurance) should not exceed 28-30% of your gross monthly income. A mortgage lender can help determine what you qualify for based on your income, debts, and savings.
    justin weegar realtor posing in office @justinweegarrealtor

    I'm Serious about my Clients

    Don't let other agents fool you... As Your Trusted REALTOR® I can promise I will not let you down or let the other side take advantage of you.

    Go to Buyer Guide