Navigating the Home-Buying Process

This chapter explores the complexities of buying a home, focusing on the importance of effective communication with mortgage brokers and understanding recent changes in real estate commissions. It highlights the critical role of choosing the right buyer's agent and encourages first-time homebuyers to research their options to navigate the evolving market effectively.

Transcript

chevron_right

Play full episode

chevron_right

Transcript

Episode notes

#584 Think you know it all when it comes to first-time home buying? Think again! In this episode, host Brien Gearin is joined by real estate expert and first-time homebuyer advocate David Sidoni, founder of How to Buy a Home. David shares his journey from showbiz to real estate, his mission to help underserved first-time buyers, and the misconceptions that hold many back — like the myth that you need 20% down. He also breaks down how self-employed entrepreneurs can navigate home buying, the impact of recent real estate commission changes, and why working with the right team is critical. Whether you're a future homebuyer or just love smart business insights, this episode is packed with eye-opening advice!

(Original Air Date - 2/10/25)

What we discuss with David:

+ Myth: You need 20% down – Not true for first-time buyers

+ Debt-to-income explained – Lenders assess monthly payments, not total debt

+ Entrepreneurs & mortgages – Self-employed buyers need strategic planning

+ Start earlier than you think – Many buy months sooner than expected

+ First-time buyers are ignored – Most agents prioritize higher-value clients

+ Scaling a niche business – How David built a national agent network

+ NAR lawsuit impact – Buyer commissions remain mostly unchanged

+ Renting vs. buying costs – Long-term financial growth matters

+ Choosing the right team – A great realtor & lender are key

+ From showbiz to real estate – David’s journey to homebuyer advocacy