Prepare
Understand cash needs, lender documentation, monthly payment limits, and the difference between approval and affordability.
Call Chase (423) 426-7968EXIT Office (423) 806-0400
FIRST-TIME BUYERS
Your first home should begin with a clear plan.
The process becomes manageable when financing, priorities, property evaluation, deadlines, and decisions are handled in the right order.
Search
Focus on locations and homes that fit your actual priorities instead of chasing every new listing.
Evaluate
Look at condition, systems, repairs, utilities, layout, and future ownership costs alongside price.
Close
Track inspections, negotiations, appraisal, title work, insurance, walkthrough, and final funds.
Start before the showing
A lender conversation and a realistic monthly budget create leverage. The goal is not simply the maximum approval amount; it is a payment and ownership plan that still works after closing.
Understand the complete offer
Price matters, but so do financing terms, contingencies, deadlines, requested items, closing costs, possession, and the seller’s priorities. Each term changes risk or competitiveness.
Keep inspection findings in context
Most homes have defects. The decision is whether the condition, repair exposure, price, and available solutions still align with your goals—not whether the report is perfectly clean.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Start with a clearer answer.
How much money will I need?
That depends on the loan, price, seller concessions, inspections, appraisal, insurance, closing costs, and reserves. A lender can prepare a property-specific estimate.
Should I talk to an agent or lender first?
Both conversations are valuable early. Financing boundaries help shape a productive home search.
Can I buy with less than 20% down?
Many loan programs allow lower down payments, subject to eligibility and lender underwriting. Ask a qualified lender to compare the complete costs.
Do I need a home inspection?
Inspection decisions are yours, but an independent inspection is a valuable risk-management tool for most purchases.
A BETTER FIRST CONVERSATION
Tell Chase what you’re working toward.
No pressure. Just practical guidance and a clear next step.
Text Chase at (423) 426-7968 →