Expert advice suggests following the 28/36 rule —keeping your mortgage within 28% of your monthly income and total debt under 36%. Securing a mortgage pre-approval is a critical early step; it not only clarifies exactly what you can afford but also makes you a more competitive buyer in fast-moving markets.
The journey usually begins long before the first open house. For many, it starts with years of saving and a mindset shift toward long-term financial health. buying our first home
Chris Abrams — Buying our first home, a dream became reality Expert advice suggests following the 28/36 rule —keeping
First-time buyers often learn that their "dream home" may not look exactly like what they initially imagined. Flexibility becomes a key asset, such as prioritizing "good bones" over aesthetic finishes like paint or flooring, which are relatively easy to change. The Emotional Journey For many, it starts with years of saving