How to find your perfect home!

Finding the right home to start a new chapter can feel overwhelming, but breaking it into steps makes it a lot more manageable. Here's how I walk my buyers through it.

Start with the numbers. Know what you can actually afford, and don't forget to factor in taxes and any HOA fees on top of the mortgage. From there, build a list of must-haves: size, bedroom count, and anything else that's non-negotiable, plus preferences like neighborhood, proximity to amenities, and school district.

Next, work with a local agent to compare listings against your criteria and budget so you get a real sense of market value in the area. Once you know what's realistic, start searching online and getting out to open houses to see homes in person.

Stay selective. You're looking for the right fit, not just any fit, so don't feel pressured to settle. Once you've found a home you're serious about, get it professionally inspected before making an offer so you know exactly what you're getting into.

Take your time with the decision. This is one of the biggest calls you'll make, and with patience and the right team around you, the right home will come together.