The First Time Homebuyer Playbook

Buying your first home can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to. In this episode, we break down the home buying process from the first conversation with a lender and REALTOR® all the way through inspections, appraisal, closing, and getting the keys.We’re covering what first-time buyers often get wrong, including the myth that you need 20% down, how pre-qualification works, what to expect from an appraisal, and why budgeting for repairs and maintenance matters.We’ll also talk about the due diligence steps that can help protect your investment, including home inspections, radon testing, and sewer scopes, plus what actually happens during the final walkthrough and closing.And because buying a home today looks different than it did a few years ago, we’ll explain written buyer agreements, agent compensation, and why homeowners insurance should be part of your conversation before you fall in love with a property.If you're considering buying your first home in Grand Junction or the Grand Valley, this episode is a great place to start.In this episode:How to build your home-buying teamGetting pre-qualified and understanding your budgetFHA vs. conventional loansHow much you really need for a down paymentWhat happens when a home doesn’t appraiseInspections, radon tests & sewer scopesUnderstanding closing costsThe final walkthroughBuyer agreements and REALTOR® compensationHomeowners insurance considerationsFinding the right part of the Grand Valley for your lifestyleHave questions about buying your first home? Contact The Christi Reece Group—we’re here to help you understand the process and make confident decisions along the way.