5 Unique Tips for First Time Homebuyers

by Cyrene Dellinger

Purchasing your first home is one of life’s most exciting and rewarding milestones. At Cyrene Dellinger Properties, we understand how daunting the journey can be, especially when you’re stepping into the world of homeownership for the first time. But with the right preparation and expert guidance, the process can be smooth, empowering, and—dare we say—fun! Here are five insights that go beyond the standard advice you might come across online, shared from a place of experience and care. These tips will help you approach homebuying with confidence, clarity, and a clear vision of what’s ahead.

1. Understand "Lifestyle Costs," Not Just Your Mortgage

So many first-time buyers focus primarily on their mortgage payments, and while that’s certainly a key factor, it’s equally important to consider the full financial picture. Owning a home brings with it several other costs that can add up in ways you might not expect. These are the “lifestyle costs” that vary based on your new location, your preferences, and your lifestyle. Let’s break them down:

Commute Costs: A home that feels perfect might be further out than you imagined, which can add significant commuting expenses. Gas, tolls, parking fees, or public transportation...these all need to be factored in when deciding on a location.

Utility Variations: Older homes or properties with larger square footage tend to have higher utility bills. Make sure you research average utility costs in the area, including heating, cooling, and water usage, so you can plan accordingly.

Community Fees: If you’re looking at properties governed by an HOA or a condo association, you’ll have additional monthly or yearly fees. But don’t just look at the price tag...understand the rules and regulations that come with it. Is the community a good fit for your lifestyle? Will it impact your sense of privacy or freedom?

Taking time to map out these hidden costs can make all the difference in avoiding any unwelcome financial surprises down the line.

2. Learn to Spot "Invisible" Property Potential

When walking through homes, it’s easy to get distracted by cosmetic issues like a dated kitchen or bright, bold paint choices. But it’s what you can’t see that truly matters when it comes to a home’s long-term potential. Here's how to focus on the right things:

Neighborhood Quality: Is the neighborhood well-maintained? Are there good schools nearby? Take a good look around; this will impact not only your quality of life but also your property’s value.

Floor Plan Functionality: Does the floor plan make sense for your needs? Think about how you’ll live in the space now and in the future. Can it grow with you? Are there enough bedrooms? Is the layout convenient?

Structural Integrity: Pay attention to the foundation, roof, and walls. Cracks, uneven floors, and signs of water damage are all red flags that can lead to costly repairs down the road.

A property’s “invisible” potential could be the ticket to a smart, long-term investment that only a seasoned eye can help you uncover.

3. Get Pre-Underwritten, Not Just Pre-Approved

One of the most powerful steps you can take in the homebuying process is getting pre-underwritten rather than just pre-approved. This may sound like a small detail, but it can give you an incredibly strong edge, especially in competitive markets.

While a pre-approval shows that you’re a serious buyer, pre-underwriting means the lender has already verified your financial documents and background, effectively taking you one step closer to a cash offer. Sellers will take your offer more seriously, and it can also help speed up the closing process, giving you peace of mind knowing that you’re fully prepared.

4. Think Long-Term: Your "5 Year Rule"

As a seasoned real estate agent, one of the most valuable pieces of advice I can offer is this: think beyond the here and now. When you’re a first-time buyer, it’s tempting to buy what’s most affordable or what seems like a “starter home.” But this can often lead to feeling cramped or needing to move again within just a few years.

I recommend considering your “5 year rule.” Ask yourself:

Will your family grow?
Will you need additional space?
Does the neighborhood have the amenities and career opportunities that will support your future needs?
Are there schools, parks, or recreational spaces nearby?

By thinking ahead, you can avoid outgrowing your home too quickly and minimize the need for another stressful move in just a few years.

5. Build Your "Hidden Experts" Team

One of the best things about working with an experienced real estate professional like me is that I’ll help you build a strong, reliable team of experts that you might not even realize you need. Your team goes beyond just your agent and lender, it includes professionals who will ensure every step of the process is smooth, secure, and in your best interest:

A Real Estate Attorney: They’ll review all contracts and paperwork to ensure you fully understand everything, protecting your rights.
An Insurance Advisor: Homeowners insurance is essential, but depending on your location, you might also need flood, earthquake, or other specialty insurance.
A Renovation Consultant: Even if you’re not planning any immediate changes, it’s helpful to know what kind of renovations are possible and how much they might cost.

Together, this team ensures that you’re fully prepared, both financially and legally, for homeownership.

At Cyrene Dellinger Properties, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. I don’t just want to help you find a house, I want to help you find a home that fits your life now, as well as your dreams for the future. Whether you’re just starting to explore or you’re ready to dive into the market, I’m here to help you make informed, confident decisions. Together, we’ll navigate the process, and I’ll be your trusted advisor in this exciting new chapter.