There is so much that goes into buying a home, and we know that process can be daunting – especially when you’ve never done it before! So we interviewed first-time home buyer, Breanna, to get her perspective on the buying process. As you read, you’ll probably share some of her fears and preconceived notions about buying a home. However, just like Breanna, you can learn how to navigate the process and feel empowered when making one of the biggest investments of your life!
Prior to purchasing your home, what were some of the preconceived notions you had about the home buying process?
I had no idea what buying a home actually entailed. I read so many articles, how-tos, advice experts on lending and mortgage rates and refinancing- i felt so overwhelmed and under-qualified. I thought i had to have 20% down, cash in hand to even enter the market. I thought my credit could be better, my bank statements could be cleaner, my investment account could be bigger. I always felt a day late and a dollar short. I felt crushed when i would read about agents selling homes for thousands and thousands over asking prices, I thought the odds were stacked against me. I felt foolish to enter the market without California cash. I felt panicky and afraid – which no one should ever feel.
What did you feel were some of the obstacles you had to overcome in order to buy your home? What were some of your fears?
One obstacle I overcame, and never saw it coming, was being honest about my financial health – and also, stopping obsessing. Nothing makes you more aware of what you spend and how you treat your income like a lending office going through every financial transaction you’ve had for the last 3 months. I had to give it to God, and say, “here it all is.” My situation was better than I expected, and in a few short months, I was handed keys to my very first home. I’m still in awe.
How did Gabriel and Data Driven Real Estate help you with overcoming some of your preconceived notions or obstacles?
Gabriel’s patience and professionalism in every step of the home buying process gave me the confidence i needed to buy a house. I never had a concern or question that Gabriel didn’t already consider. I never felt nagging when I would run ideas, scenarios, and what-if’s by him via text in the middle of our work days. He was always there to bounce ideas back, and had a contact in each department I needed help with (i.e. handy-man, garage door installation, inspector).
I was never making decisions alone, or signing a document i didn’t understand, and that gave me a sense of power I’ve never had before. Gabriel recognized my fears and walked me out of them; he even let me complain about my opinions on the real estate market (as if he isn’t the professional here! HA!)!
Were you pleased with your experience and the process?
Gabriel helped me accomplish my dream, and I am so grateful! I am so happy to have an expert in real estate in my corner for the rest of my life.
What does buying your own home mean for you personally and financially?
I am so proud to own a home! Financially, this is the best (and biggest) investment I’ve ever made – which leveled me up into a whole different operation. I have never felt so secure in my life. In my 20’s, I was living paycheck to paycheck , being disorganized with my money and always coming up short to pay rent. That anxiety and instability breeds fear and shame. Finally, I can look at my financial health and feel security. Excitement. Pride. I have never had that feeling before.
On a deeply personal level – the fact I am able to provide a home for my baby daughter brings tears to my eyes. I can finally take a deep breath, look into her eyes, and tell her, “Baby girl, we are finally home.” My grandmothers and grandfathers are smiling from above, I feel it in my bones. I can finally unpack – both figuratively and literally, and that sense of relief ripples to my soul. I can relax. I can breathe. I can plan for our future and know we will always be taken care of.
This isn’t just a home, it’s a valuable lesson I am able to give to my daughter – and there is no price on that. She will know that investing in ourselves is the best investment we can ever make, and she will never have to worry about living under someone else’s roof. I am so proud.
Is there anything you wish would have gone differently?
My only regret is that i didn’t begin the process sooner! But, as someone in finance, i don’t believe in looking back – the best investment we can make for ourselves is to begin RIGHT NOW!
Would you buy a home again in the future or rent instead?
I will never rent again! Buying a house gave me the freedom to invest in my family’s future!
If you would buy a home again in the future, would you use Gabriel as your Realtor?
Gabriel was hands down the most genuine, kind, hardworking realtor I could have ever asked for. He was ALWAYS in my corner and worked behind the scenes for me. We encountered some realtors who didn’t tell the truth and who were rude and condescending – I was reminded again and again why Gabriel is so outstanding. I look forward to our next real estate investment opportunity!
What advice would you give to another first-time home buyer?
Take a deep breath, and know that you’re not alone. This is a big commitment and a game-changer. Do it despite being terrified. Be brave. Imagine what you want and find a path to take you there, and let people help you. The strongest people i know have demonstrated how to ask for help. I am so glad I did.
Are you ready to make your move? Contact us today for your free, no obligation buyer consult!
