Education first · Zero pressure
The first-time buyer hub. Everything you're Googling, answered here.
If you're buying your first home in Michigan, you have about a hundred questions and no idea which one to ask first. This hub organizes the ones I hear most: how much money you need, what credit score matters, whether you should rent instead, and what to do when your offer gets accepted. Start here, and when you're ready, I'm one call away.
starting from zero? questions welcome here.
The money questions, answered honestly.
let's break it down.
Can I actually afford to buy a house in Michigan?
Probably, if you plan for the full picture: down payment, closing costs, and the monthly PITI payment. Michigan runs several down payment assistance programs, including MSHDA options, and conventional loans can go as low as 3% down. The real test is a pre-approval with a local lender, which tells you your exact number.
What credit score do I need to buy a house?
620 is a common baseline for a conventional loan, and FHA can work with scores around 580 plus lower. Your score matters less than your whole picture: income stability, debt-to-income ratio, and savings. I'll connect you with a lender who will map the path to your number, not just quote a rate.
Should I rent or buy right now?
If you'll stay put three to five years and your savings can handle the closing costs plus a cushion, buying usually wins in Metro Detroit, especially in Macomb County where prices remain comparatively sane. If your timeline is short or your savings are thin, renting is a strategy, not a failure.
Do I need to get pre-approved before talking to a Realtor?
No. You can talk to an agent before you're pre-approved, before you're 'ready', even a year before you plan to buy. That first conversation is free and pressure-free. But before you make an offer, yes, you'll want the pre-approval in hand.
Myth vs. fact.
Half of what first-time buyers believe about buying was told to them by people who've never actually done it. Let's break it down:
half of it is just folklore, honestly.
Myth: I need 20% down or I can't buy.
Fact: Most first-time buyers put down far less: 3% to 5% is common, and assistance programs can help further. The 20% figure avoids private mortgage insurance, it isn't a requirement to buy.
Myth: A Realtor just opens doors.
Fact: The door-opening is maybe 5% of it. Negotiation, comp analysis, inspection coordination, paperwork, and contingency management are the job. You're hiring a transaction manager and a negotiator.
Myth: The asking price is what I'll pay.
Fact: The asking price is a starting point. Some homes sell below, some well above, and the difference is decided by comps, competition, and offer strategy, not the sign in the yard.
Myth: Buying is always better than renting.
Fact: Nice in theory, false in practice for short timelines and thin savings. The right answer depends on your numbers and your life plan, and I'll tell you straight which side you're on.
Scared to ask the "dumb" question? Same policy as always:
There are no dumb questions here. Ever. Ask me anything, anon away, from a throwaway email. I'll answer it like I'd answer a friend, because that's how I treat my clients.
no dumb questions here. ever.
Will a Realtor pressure me to buy before I'm ready? No. And if yours does, you have the wrong one.
Can I talk to an agent even if I'm not buying for a year? Please, do. That's exactly when to start.
Do I have to sign a contract just to talk? No, never, with anyone.
Ask me the question you're afraid to ask
No pressure, no judgment, no contract. Just a straight answer.