From PMI myths to hard credit pull fears, this listener Q&A episode breaks down the most common first-time homebuyer questions with real math and no fluff. Learn the right order of operations, how to shop for your mortgage, and when to start talking to a lender — all straight from the expert trusted by thousands of new homeowners.

This episode dives into 10 of the most frequent and misunderstood questions first-time buyers ask when preparing to purchase a home. David Sidoni continues the “listener question” series with practical, myth-busting guidance on everything from pre-approvals and FICO scores to the real math behind PMI and rent replacement.

Listeners will discover why starting early is the most powerful move, how to safely run a hard credit pull without hurting your chances, and why “shopping the rate” is one of the biggest traps new buyers fall into. Instead, David explains why “shopping the team” — the right realtor and lender — is what truly determines your long-term success and financial comfort.

“Don’t shop numbers — shop service. Realtor first. Unicorn realtor first.” – David Sidoni

• The correct order of operations: Realtor first, lender second, rate third
• Why PMI isn’t the enemy — it’s a tool that gets you into the game sooner
• The myth of “wait until you’re debt-free” or “save 20%” before buying
• How much a hard credit pull really affects your score (spoiler: not much)
• Mortgage broker vs. bank vs. online lender: what actually matters
• The new FICO top tier: 780+ and why that matters for rates
• Why credit unions are great for cars, not mortgages
• When and how to use a 401(k) loan to buy your first home
• Real math: PMI vs. waiting 40 months to save — $6,000 vs. $100,000 in rent
• The one question that can make or break your lender interview

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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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