Budgeting Basics: Build a Real-World Plan to Buy Your First Home

Building a home buying budget doesn't have to be overwhelming—or boring. In fact, with the right approach, it can actually be empowering (and maybe even fun, if you like spreadsheets). In this episode, Jennifer Shannon Templeton walks you through how to craft a home buying budget that actually works—no shame, no unrealistic expectations, and definitely no crypto advice from grandma. You’ll learn: ✅ Why talking to a lender early is your best first move (yes, even if you’re “not ready”) ✅ The real breakdown of down payments (spoiler: you don’t need 20%) ✅ How to calculate your full cost to buy—down payment, closing costs, moving expenses, and more ✅ The magic of zero-based budgeting (and why every dollar should have a job) ✅ How to budget $20K over time with real examples and timelines ✅ Tools, mindset shifts, and financial habits that make saving for a home doable 🔧 Want to plug in your own numbers? 📊 Grab the Home Buying Budget Tracker Spreadsheet: 👉 homebuyingforwomen.com/budget 🤝 Ready to get personalized help on your finances? Schedule your FREE 1-on-1 coaching session with a real estate-savvy financial coach: 👉 homebuyingforwomen.com/coaching