Think you can’t buy a home until your debt is gone and your savings are massive? Think again. In this episode, David Sidoni breaks down the real math behind saving for a down payment while managing debt — and why waiting too long could actually cost you more.

For first-time homebuyers, the internet is full of misinformation: you need zero debt, a huge down payment, and perfect timing. Wrong. In this episode, David tackles one of the biggest fears holding renters back — how much you actually need to save, and whether it’s possible to do that while still carrying debt. Spoiler: it is.

Building on Rosie’s inspiring story from the last episode (a single mom who bought her first home in 2025 after bankruptcy), David unpacks the myths that scare buyers into renting for far too long. He explains the strategies that let you save and pay down debt at the same time, and why the rising age of first-time buyers — now at a shocking 41 years old — is proof that misinformation is keeping people trapped.

If you’re stuck renting because you think your debt or small savings disqualify you, this episode is your wake-up call. Homeownership is possible sooner than you think — if you know the facts.

Quote: “You don’t need a big down payment and no debt. Nope, nope, nope.”

Highlights:

• The myth of needing zero debt before buying a home — busted.
• How to save for a down payment while paying down debt.
• Why waiting too long could cost you more in rising prices and rents.
• Rosie’s real-life story: from bankruptcy in 2019 to buying in 2025.
• The shocking truth: average first-time buyer age has jumped to 41.

References (If Applicable):

• 186 - INTERVIEW: Buying a Home with 300K of Student Debt?
• 305 - Debt Management: Homebuying 101 - Step 4
• 233 - Interview With Stephanie Who Had 200K In Student Loans, And STILL Bought A Home!
• 339 - Don’t Get Pre-Qualified—Get a Plan (INTERVIEW)
• 340 – Down Payment Assistance, Discovery Calls & Lending Myths (INTERVIEW)
• 327 - From “Maybe Next Year” to Homeowner in 4 Months – Elizabeth’s Story (INTERVIEW)
• 330 - From Renter to Homeowner with a Home Business – Christina’s Story (INTERVIEW)
• 347 - She Fired Her Realtor—and Bought the Right Home in 3 Days (INTERVIEW)
• 351 - How a Drama Teacher Bought a Home Solo (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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