How to Find the Perfect First Home
Finding your first home can feel both exciting and daunting.
With so many factors to consider, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But with the right guidance, you can turn this experience into an exciting journey towards homeownership. At Justin Johnson Realty, we specialize in helping first-time buyers navigate the real estate market with confidence.
Here’s how you can find the perfect first home with our expert advice:

Understand Your Needs and Wants
Before you start house hunting, make a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves.
Think about the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you need, your desired location, and the type of home you want. Consider your lifestyle and future plans. If you’re planning to start a family, a home with extra space might be a priority.
By understanding your needs and wants, you can narrow down your search and focus on properties that truly meet your criteria.

Set a Realistic Budget
Determining your budget is crucial in finding the right home.
Start by evaluating your financial situation, including your savings, income, and credit score. Use online mortgage calculators to estimate how much you can afford in monthly payments. Remember to factor in additional costs such as property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. Setting a realistic budget ensures you can comfortably afford your new home without stretching your finances too thin.
At Justin Johnson Realty, our experienced agents can help you understand the financial aspects of buying a home and connect you with trusted mortgage lenders

Research Neighborhoods
Location is a key part of your home search.
Take the time to explore different neighborhoods and consider their proximity to work, schools, shopping, and recreational facilities. Look into the safety of each community. Visit neighborhoods at different times of the day to get a feel for the environment. By researching neighborhoods, you can find a community that aligns with your lifestyle.
At Justin Johnson Realty, we offer comprehensive neighborhood guides that provide insights into local amenities, school ratings, and market trends.

Work with a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent
Having an experienced real estate agent by your side can make a significant difference in your home buying journey.
A knowledgeable agent understands the local market, negotiates on your behalf, and helps you navigate the complexities of real estate transactions. At Justin Johnson Realty, our agents are dedicated to providing personalized service and expert advice. We take the time to understand your needs, answer your questions, and guide you every step of the way.
With our help, you can make informed decisions and find the perfect starter house.

Attend Open Houses and Schedule Viewings
Seeing a property in person gives you a better sense of its layout, condition, and overall look.
Attend open houses and schedule viewings for homes that interest you. Take notes and pictures to compare properties later. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the home’s history, recent upgrades, and any potential issues. Our agents at Justin Johnson Realty accompany you during home viewings, offering professional insights and helping you assess each property to make sure it’s suitable for you.
First-Time Home Buyer Programs
Navigating the home buying process can be challenging, especially for first-time buyers. Thankfully, there are numerous programs designed to make this journey more accessible and affordable.
At Justin Johnson Realty, we are committed to helping you take advantage of these opportunities so you get the best possible start on your path to homeownership.
Here are three first-time home buyer programs to help you get started:

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Loans
FHA loans are one of the most popular options for first-time home buyers.
Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, these loans require a lower down payment and have more lenient credit requirements compared to conventional loans.
With an FHA loan, you can put down as little as 3.5%, making it easier to purchase a home even if you haven’t saved a large sum of money. Our agents at Justin Johnson Realty can guide you through the application process and help you determine if an FHA loan is right for you.

Veterans Affairs (VA) Loans
If you are a veteran or an active-duty service member, you may qualify for a VA loan.
These loans, backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, provide numerous benefits, such as no down payment, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and competitive interest rates.
Our agents have extensive experience working with military families and can assist you in accessing the benefits of a VA loan.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Loans
USDA loans are designed to help individuals in rural and suburban areas achieve homeownership.
These loans offer no down payment options and competitive interest rates for eligible buyers. To qualify, the property must be located in an approved rural area, and the buyer must meet income requirements. Our team can help you determine your eligibility and guide you through the USDA loan process.
Start Your Journey with Justin Johnson Realty
Finding the perfect first home is a significant milestone.
With careful planning, thorough research, and the support of a knowledgeable real estate agent, you can achieve your goal. At Justin Johnson Realty, we are dedicated to helping you in the home-buying process to find a home that’s right for you.
Contact us today to start your journey towards homeownership with confidence.