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First Time Homebuyer Starter Kit

January 7, 2026

Buying your first home can feel like learning a new language overnight. This starter kit breaks the process into simple questions (the ones first-time buyers actually ask) with clear, step-by-step answers—so you can move forward with confidence.

Q: I’m a first-time homebuyer. Where do I begin?

A: Start with a timeline.
Before you browse listings or fall in love with a floor plan, decide when you want to be in your new home.

A realistic timeline helps you:

• Make faster, clearer decisions (location, budget, must-haves)
• Understand what steps come first (lender, agent, builder, etc.)
• Avoid surprises with move-out dates, lease endings, and life plans

Common first-time buyer timelines

• “ASAP” (30–60 days): Great if you’re open to quick-delivery options.
• “This season” (2–6 months): Time to shop thoughtfully and compare options.
• “Later this year” (6–12 months): Ideal for saving, improving credit, or planning a move.

Q: How do I narrow down my home search?

A: Use a simple pros & cons system—and decide your “non-negotiables.”
The fastest way to reduce overwhelm is to separate what you need from what you want.
Start with these categories:

• Must-haves: things you won’t compromise on (bed/bath count, commute time, budget cap)
• Nice-to-haves: things you’d love, but can live without (bigger yard, basement, upgraded finishes)
• Dealbreakers: things that immediately eliminate a home (HOA restrictions, layout issues, location)

Q: How do I know how much I can afford?

A: Start by finding a monthly payment that feels comfortable—then confirm your exact buying power with a lender.

Step 1: Use our Buying Power Calculator
Our Buying Power Calculator makes it easy to find your ideal monthly payment. Just plug in a few details and we’ll immediately show you homes that match your price range. This is the step that turns “dreaming” into “doing.”

Step 2: Get prequalified with a lender (at no cost to you!)
Prequalification turns “dreaming” into “doing” because it gives you a clearer picture of what you can comfortably afford. A lender can help you understand:

• The price range you may qualify for
• Your estimated monthly payment (not just the home price)
• Down payment options and possible assistance programs (if available)
• How your credit and income impact your rate and loan options

Why this matters:
Shopping without numbers can lead to heartbreak—like falling in love with a home that’s outside your budget. When you know what you qualify for, you can focus on homes you can truly move into.

And if you’re not happy with the number? A good lender can help you create a plan—sometimes a few small changes make a big difference.

Q: What are some helpful questions to ask my lender?

A: Bring this list to your first call.
These questions help you avoid confusion and feel in control.

1. What can I comfortably qualify for? A lender will help you understand not just the max approval amount, but rather what fits your lifestyle monthly.
2. What are my down-payment options? Ask you lender about conventional, FHA, VA (if applicable), and any first-time buyer support options.
3. What are my rate options?
   Fixed vs adjustable, and how buying points works.
4. What do I need to prepare for in closing costs?
   Get a rough estimate and what items are included.
5. What documents do I need?
   Typical examples: pay stubs, W-2s, tax returns, bank statements, ID, etc.
6. What three things (if any) should I focus on to get closer to contracting on a home?
   This is a great question for actionable next steps (credit, savings, debt      ratio, paperwork).

Q: What costs should I plan for besides the down payment?

A: Budget for the “move-in ecosystem.”
Many first-time buyers plan for down payment—but forget the rest. Here are some more things to consider before buying your first home:

• Closing costs (lender can estimate)
• Earnest money (applied toward purchase—details vary)
• Homeowners insurance
• Prepaid items (taxes/insurance, depending on loan)
• Moving costs
• Utilities setup
• Basic essentials (blinds, fridge, washer/dryer—depending on what’s included)

Ready to take the next step?

If you want help turning your timeline + budget into real options, Baessler Homes can help you explore available homes and communities—and make the process feel a lot less intimidating.