First-time homebuyers often get stuck in the same myths and mistakes. This episode shares overlooked tips and critical warnings that can protect you and boost your confidence.

Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, but a few insider strategies can make the process smoother — and safer. In this episode, David Sidoni shares hard-earned lessons from two decades of guiding first-time buyers. You’ll learn how lenders calculate your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), why monthly debt payments matter more than total balances, and how to avoid common missteps that derail approvals. Each tip comes with a warning, because protection is the first job of a unicorn Realtor. Whether you’re just beginning your research or already preparing for pre-approval, these nuggets will help you move forward with clarity.

Quote:

“Protecting you isn’t a small part of a unicorn realtor’s job. It’s their first job.”

Highlights:

• What lenders really look at in your debt-to-income ratio (DTI)
• Why monthly obligations carry more weight than your total debt
• The hidden pitfalls that can stall loan approval
• The role of a unicorn Realtor in protecting first-time buyers
• Confidence-boosting tips that most buyers never hear

Referenced Episodes:

FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF ALL THE REFERENCED EPISODES, PLEASE VISIT OUR OFFICIAL 2025 EPISODE GUIDE

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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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