This episode kicks off a new financial prep series designed specifically for first-time homebuyers. Whether you’re 2 weeks or 2 years away from buying, this is the financial clarity you’ve been missing.

Most financial advice for first-time buyers is either too vague or too late. In this episode, David Sidoni breaks down the two essential elements of real financial prep: aligning your finances with what lenders actually want to see, and starting as early as possible — ideally 12–24 months before you buy.

You’ll learn why saving money isn’t enough and why you might be closer to homeownership than you think. This is the guide to understanding what makes you approvable, not just how to save blindly. If you’ve ever felt like you’re “not ready,” this episode will give you a step-by-step mindset shift to start planning with confidence and clarity.

“Most people are way closer to buying a home than they think — they just don’t have the right information.”

• Why traditional savings advice misses the mark for future buyers
• How mortgage lenders view your financial profile (and how to fit into their system)
• The power of 12–24 months of advanced planning
• Why realigning your finances can be more powerful than saving more money
• How early preparation leads to more options, less stress, and faster homeownership
• The truth behind approval standards — and why you might already qualify

• Episode 400 – Start of the 10-Step Home Buying Series

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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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