Headlines keep promising drama, but the 2025 housing story is quieter—and more strategic—than most people think. We break down what actually matters for first-time buyers right now: prices holding steady, inventory finally improving, and mortgage rates edging lower without a freefall. The twist? A small shift in rates can invite millions of buyers back into the market, reshaping the starter-home battlefield overnight.

We share a clear, local-first view of price trends—from California’s slight year-over-year bump to the sharper cool-downs some Sun Belt cities may face—and explain why the Midwest and similarly stable markets could still notch modest gains. You’ll hear how days on market are rising, sale-to-list ratios have softened to around 98%, and why that grants real negotiating power through the quieter fall season. Credits, repairs, and seller-paid points aren’t abstract ideas; they’re practical tools to bend the monthly payment in your favor.

We also demystify what moves mortgage rates: inflation and unemployment. Rather than chasing headlines, we outline how to watch CPI trends and labor data, and why mortgage pricing often reacts to expectations before policy announcements land. Most importantly, we lay out a simple, resilient game plan—buy for fit and long-term stability, secure the best terms you can today, and keep a refinance strategy ready if rates break lower. That way, you capture today’s calmer negotiations while staying nimble for tomorrow’s opportunities.

If you’re weighing “buy now or wait,” this is your field guide to making the numbers work without betting on a mythical perfect moment. Subscribe, share with a friend who’s house hunting, and leave a quick review to tell us your market and your biggest question—we might feature it next.

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Find all our episodes, articles, newsletter, and resources on our main site: https://FTHBPros.com

Contact Information:
Dat Nguyen – Loan Officer
(714) 331-6289
[email protected]

NMLS# 113790

The podcast highlights the challenges of navigating the 2025 housing market, emphasizing high-interest rates, new commission structures, and insurance implications in disaster-prone states. Listeners are urged to remain proactive and informed to achieve successful homeownership.

• Discussion of current interest rates and their impact on purchasing power 
• The significance of budgeting for long-term affordability 
• New commission structures introduce transparency in real estate transactions 
• Importance of buyer broker agreements for clarity in agent relationships 
• Insurance challenges in California and Florida due to natural disasters 
• Steps to mitigate risks and prepare for insurance costs 
• Encouragement to stay informed and proactive throughout the buying process 
• Final thoughts on realistic goals and being prepared financially

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Support the show

Find all our episodes, articles, newsletter, and resources on our main site: https://FTHBPros.com

Contact Information:
Dat Nguyen – Loan Officer
(714) 331-6289
[email protected]

NMLS# 113790

Ever thought about how you might be leaving money on the table in your home buying negotiations? Well, we've got the perfect episode for you! Today, we're unpacking the mysterious world of seller concessions, and how they can work in your favor. We'll guide you on how to seek them out, negotiate them, and the remarkable role they can play in reducing the financial strain of homeownership. We delve into the specifics, exposing the limits, the caveats, and how to navigate them. Plus, we’ll explain how you can combine these concessions with down payment assistance programs to maximize your savings.

Ready for a revelation? What if you could get a concession, not to replace that worn-out carpet, but to choose your own stylish flooring post-closing? Yes, that's possible! We take you through the finer details of this strategy, and how it could give you a competitive edge in negotiations. This conversation is full of practical advice, real-life examples, and strategies that will alter the way you approach your home buying negotiations. For more insightful tips and guidance, be sure to check out FTHBPros.com. Trust us; this is the episode that makes the complex world of seller concessions simple, helping you better understand the costs associated with buying a home. So sit back, tune in, and let us guide you through your home buying journey.

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Support the show

Find all our episodes, articles, newsletter, and resources on our main site: https://FTHBPros.com

Contact Information:
Dat Nguyen – Loan Officer
(714) 331-6289
[email protected]

NMLS# 113790

Ever wondered what distinguishes a manufactured home from a stick-built one? Or perhaps you've grappled with the stigmas and misconceptions surrounding manufactured homes. If so, this episode is for you. We're joined by the seasoned expert and owner of Stell RE Group, Steven Ellefson, who brings his deep knowledge and insights into the world of manufactured homes.

Steven helps us navigate the nuances between manufactured homes, mobile homes, and stick-built homes, shedding light on the regulations that have shaped the industry. He offers a fascinating exploration of the key 1976 regulation that made financing manufactured homes possible and breaks down the diverse purchasing options, such as land leases. If you're a first-time homebuyer, Steven's advice on FHA financing and how to find a turnkey home is a must-hear!

Why choose a manufactured home? Steven provides compelling arguments, dispelling myths and misconceptions, and highlighting the high-quality materials used in construction. He breaks down the affordability, energy-efficiency, and remarkable features of these homes compared to stick-built homes. Steven also offers invaluable advice on finding a local expert in the field, ensuring you're equipped with all the information you need to make the right choice. Don't miss out on this enlightening and comprehensive guide into the world of manufactured homes! Tune in and discover why a manufactured home might just be the perfect fit for you.

Steven Ellefson
Realtor / MH Sales Specialist 
(951) 663-5082
Legacy Homes Realty
DRE: 02100895
Stell RE Group

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Support the show

Find all our episodes, articles, newsletter, and resources on our main site: https://FTHBPros.com

Contact Information:
Dat Nguyen – Loan Officer
(714) 331-6289
[email protected]

NMLS# 113790

We're looking at some of the most devious scams and practices that could happen to first-time home buyers. From fake rental listings, bait and switch schemes, to the devastating impact of title fraud - we expose the top 10 that can affect you. 

We look at the importance of title insurance and the potential pitfalls related to property titles. It's not about scaring you, but empowering you with crucial information. We look into the dark world of predatory lending and home improvement scams, loan flipping, the cybercrime of escrow wire fraud, and the deceitful world of scamming contractors. 
But we're also arming you with practical steps to combat these scams. We discuss the importance of due diligence, understanding the fine print of your loan terms, and the value of an independent home inspection. Remember, knowledge is power, and power is what you will gain from this enlightening episode. So tune in, and let's fight these scams together.

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Support the show

Find all our episodes, articles, newsletter, and resources on our main site: https://FTHBPros.com

Contact Information:
Dat Nguyen – Loan Officer
(714) 331-6289
[email protected]

NMLS# 113790

What if we told you that choosing a smaller home could actually lead to a happier, more fulfilling life? Join us as we explore the ever-changing concept of the "right size" home and discuss how sometimes, less is more. We'll take you on a journey through the history of home sizes, from the early 20th century to the present day, and discuss the impact of events like the post-World War II housing boom, the energy crisis, and even the COVID-19 pandemic on our perception of the perfect home size.

Discover the benefits of owning a smaller home, such as lower maintenance and utility costs, and how it could contribute to building generational wealth. We'll also dive into the challenges of smaller homes, like storage and resale value, and provide practical tips on working around these issues. Plus, learn how to make the most of the space you have - regardless of square footage. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation that could help you make the best decision for your lifestyle and housing needs!

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Support the show

Find all our episodes, articles, newsletter, and resources on our main site: https://FTHBPros.com

Contact Information:
Dat Nguyen – Loan Officer
(714) 331-6289
[email protected]

NMLS# 113790

Ready to embark on the rewarding journey of homeownership, but feeling overwhelmed by the process? Worry no more; we've got you covered with our First Time Homebuyers podcast! As your personal guide and licensed loan officer and real estate agent, I'm Phil, and we'll be navigating the home buying process together. From finding the right real estate agent or lender to understanding the terminology and proper etiquette for touring homes, we'll break down each step in a way that's easy to follow and understand.

On top of that, we're bringing in expert lenders and agents to share their insights and perspectives on various topics, ensuring you get a well-rounded understanding of everything you need to know. Don't forget to visit our website, FTHBPros.com, for more articles, tools like our Home Affordability Calculator, and a supportive community through our newsletter and Facebook group. Feel free to reach out with any specific questions - we're here to help you achieve your dream of homeownership. So, tune in, subscribe, and let's make your home buying journey as smooth as possible!

Send us a text

Support the show

Find all our episodes, articles, newsletter, and resources on our main site: https://FTHBPros.com

Contact Information:
Dat Nguyen – Loan Officer
(714) 331-6289
[email protected]

NMLS# 113790

Ready to take the plunge into your first condo or townhome purchase, but feeling overwhelmed by the financing process? Our resident expert, Sarah, is here to guide us through the your journey toward homeownership with a condo or townhome.

Our discussion not only uncovers the different types of loans available for condos and townhomes – such as conventional, FHA, and VA loans – but also dives into the nitty-gritty of interest rates, down payments, and occupancy ratios.

With Sarah's insights, you'll learn how to navigate the world of condo financing, determine if a property is non-warrantable, and even explore options for luxury condos with jumbo loans. Don't miss out on this essential information for first-time homebuyers and find out why we think a condo might just be the right option for many first time home buyers.

View full show notes and episode at our blog

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Support the show

Find all our episodes, articles, newsletter, and resources on our main site: https://FTHBPros.com

Contact Information:
Dat Nguyen – Loan Officer
(714) 331-6289
[email protected]

NMLS# 113790

Are the myths about condos and townhomes holding you back from exploring their benefits? Tune in as we debunk 10 common misconceptions and discuss the pros and cons of condo and townhome living. Discover the key differences in maintenance, privacy, personalization, and selling between these housing options, and learn how they can offer more affordable home ownership in densely populated areas.

Don't let false beliefs stand in your way of finding the perfect home. In our conversation, we clarify the ins and outs of HOA fees, privacy, and customization options for your new abode. Plus, we share advice on what to look for when touring a potential property, and the importance of reading the governing documents of the homeowners association. Listen in to find out if a condo or townhome is the right choice for you.

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Support the show

Find all our episodes, articles, newsletter, and resources on our main site: https://FTHBPros.com

Contact Information:
Dat Nguyen – Loan Officer
(714) 331-6289
[email protected]

NMLS# 113790

As a first time home buyer, you may not know some of the Do’s and Don’t of touring a home, whether that’s going to open houses or a private tour with an agent. We’ll go over 8 do’s and 8 don’ts about touring homes, and talk about some key points to help you make the most of your time and experience.

Do's

1. Bring your real estate agent to an open house. If you don’t have an agent yet, we can help. Reach out via our contact page, or we’ve partnered with Home&Money, go to https://homeandmoney.com/FTHB/ and we’ll help connect you with a local, vetted agent.
2. Research the area and neighborhood prior to the open house visit.
3. Take detailed notes about each house to help you remember your thoughts and feelings about each home.
4. Highlight any features that you like or dislike, repairs needed, etc.
5. Ask questions of the real estate agent to get a better understanding of what is included in the sale of the house and any additional costs associated with it.
6. Make sure you check the layout of the house, such as flow between rooms and door locations, in addition to looking at finishes and features.
7. Take pictures or videos of the house to remember your thoughts and feelings about each home. 
8. Do keep all children supervised at all times.

Don’ts

1. Don’t use the bathroom.
2. Don’t talk about the home, good or bad, while near the home.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or make comments about anything that you don’t understand – the real estate agents are there to help you!
4. Don’t rush through the house – take your time and get a good feel for each room as this will help with decision making later on.
5. Don’t enter a home if there isn’t an open house or you aren’t with an agent.
6. You might be tempted to do your own inspection of the home.
7. A peak into a closet is fine, but don’t look in places like medicine cabinets or jewelry boxes.
8. Don’t enter closed rooms without asking.

Show Notes and Article: https://fthbpros.com/podcast/home-touring-and-open-house-tips/

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Support the show

Find all our episodes, articles, newsletter, and resources on our main site: https://FTHBPros.com

Contact Information:
Dat Nguyen – Loan Officer
(714) 331-6289
[email protected]

NMLS# 113790