A Guide for First Time Buyers
Buying your first home is a major life milestone—exciting, rewarding, and sometimes overwhelming. To help you navigate the process with confidence, we have created this step-by-step guide designed to reduce stress and make the experience as enjoyable as possible.
RESEARCH
Not sure where you want to buy, what type of home suits you best—condo, townhome, or single-family—or which features matter most to you?
If you’re still figuring these things out, now is the perfect time to start your research. Explore different properties, get a feel for what’s available, and pay close attention to shifts in asking prices.
Tracking these trends can offer valuable insights into local markets and give you a stronger position when you’re ready to make an offer.
BUDGET
It’s important to set your own budget—not just rely on what a mortgage lender is willing to approve.
Lenders may offer you more than you’re truly comfortable spending, so it’s essential to figure out a monthly payment that fits your lifestyle before you apply.
This means creating a detailed household budget and accounting for the added costs of homeownership.
If you’re used to living with roommates or in an apartment, don’t forget to factor in new expenses like water, trash service, and HOA fees—these can add up quickly and impact your overall affordability.
PREQUALIFICATION
Just because you think you can afford a certain monthly payment doesn’t mean the mortgage company will see it the same way.
They might approve you for more than you expect—or less. In some cases, they might not approve you at all.
Things like a short job history, low credit score, past bankruptcies, or other financial issues can really impact your chances.
That’s why it’s smart to talk to a mortgage professional before you get too attached to a specific home.
They can help you figure out what you actually qualify for. Plus, being prequalified can give you an edge when you make an offer—some sellers won’t even consider buyers who haven’t taken that step.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT REALTOR
Sure, you can shop for a home, set up showings, and even make an offer all on your own—but why go through all that stress when working with real estate pros like us doesn’t cost you anything?
We’ll help you find homes that fit what you’re looking for, schedule tours, and walk you through the offer process.
Plus, we know the market inside and out—things you might not catch on your own.
Finding the right home can feel overwhelming, but that’s exactly where we come in. Let us help you explore homes that match your wishlist so you can find the one that truly feels like home.
REAL PASSION, REAL RESULTS
Our goal is to give you personalized service that truly fits you.
We take the time to understand what you’re looking for in a home and what matters most to you, so we can guide you through the process with your specific needs in mind.
Every step is tailored to help find and buy the home that feels just right for you.
Testimonials
Why our clients love us
Bryan was an asset to helping me find and close on a house. I was a first time home buyer and Bryan set up an initial search. I wasn’t sure what part of the valley I wanted to look at, if I wanted a new build or a resale. He answered all my questions in a timely manner and was very knowledgeable about the entire Phoenix valley. I ended up purchasing a resale and couldn’t be happier! Having never gone through the process, he was very patient with me and took the time to explain every step and what to expect next. He was there every step of the way and I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Jim and Tracy K.
We recently relocated from San Antonio, Texas to Cave Creek, Arizona. The best single issue we accomplished during this move was to retain Bryan Staley as our real estate agent. He was extremely knowledgable of the Scottsdale market place, appreciated our wants and needs and located a property that accommodated everything we desired. He is personable and responds quickly to emergencies that arise in the process. My wife and I couldn’t have selected an agent any better, no matter how hard we tried. Just call us lucky!!! We would definitely recommend Bryan to others who are about to start this arduous process. Hats off to Bryan and a big thank you to him.
Bob and Delores M.
Discover Arizona
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