If you’re tired of feeling stuck, this is the episode that gets you unstuck. David lays out a step-by-step action plan—from boosting your credit and automating savings to leveraging AI, understanding taxes, assumable mortgages, and more. No generic advice here. These are real moves first-time buyers can make today to start building momentum, no matter your timeline or income. Plus, David exposes a new wave of shady “cash back” apps and explains how they work—so you don’t get trapped by fake perks and unvetted agents.

Quote:

“Research is great, but passive learning can stunt your growth. It’s time for action.” — David Sidoni, Episode 328

Highlights:

1. Leverage AI tools like ChatGPT to research terms, markets, and neighborhoods.

2. Report rent payments to boost your credit—the right way, with professional guidance.

3. Automate your savings and treat it like a non-negotiable bill.

4. Understand homeownership tax benefits that can improve your take-home pay.

5. Explore assumable mortgages for access to 2–3% interest rates (listen to Episode 326).

6. Track your progress visually—thermometers on the fridge, kindergarten-style.

7. Create a parallel financial plan—save and pay down debt at the same time.

8. Consider rate buy-downs to lower your monthly payment (see Episode 262).

9. Fix your partner’s credit score (without starting a fight).

10. Prep for bidding wars—and why being “ready” is more than just finances.

BONUS WARNING:

• Learn how “cashback” platforms like Gravy use shiny perks to lock you into unvetted agents and lenders who pay to be recommended.

• Discover the truth behind those “free” savings—and why they may cost you tens of thousands more in the long run.

Referenced Episodes:

• Episode 94: Real Estate Terms and Definitions

• Episode 251: Tracking Progress with Thermometers

• Episode 262: Mortgage Rate Buy-Downs

• Episode 300: Deep Dive on Credit Scores

• Episodes 175–177: Bidding War Tactics

• Episode 326: Assumable Mortgages

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David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer.

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