Let’s debate this for a second: Side A (The Waiters):“I’ll just wait until interest rates drop, prices cool, or the market becomes less competitive. That way, I’ll get a better deal.” Side B (The Doers):“The perfect time is when the right home becomes available and I’m financially ready. If I wait for the market to line up perfectly, I risk missing out on years of equity growth, tax advantages, and simply living in a home I love.” Here’s the truth: The market never announces the “perfect time.” By the time headlines declare it, opportunities are already gone. - Rates can change daily. - Prices can adjust—but long-term, they trend upward. - The longer you wait, the more you may pay later. - So ask yourself—do you want to chase the idea of perfect timing, or start building the life you want now?

👋 Let’s get to know you! When you introduce yourself to the group, share a little about: 1️⃣ Who you are (name + a quick snapshot of you) 2️⃣ Where you call home 🏡 3️⃣ What you do (profession, passion, or both!) 4️⃣ A fun fact, hobby, or something unique about you 🎯 5️⃣ What you’re hoping to gain, learn, or contribute here 💡 Can’t wait to meet you!

Buyers with a plan find the right home faster. When you know your must-haves, like-to-haves, and don’t-wants, the search becomes more focused. You’ll waste less time on homes that don’t fit, and you’ll recognize the perfect home the moment it comes up. Here's an example: Buyer’s Home Planning List ✅ Must Have (Non-negotiables) These are the essentials that the home must meet. If these aren’t present, the home is not a fit. - Home Style & Design: (e.g., single-story, two-story, modern, traditional, open-concept, accessible layout) - Bedrooms & Bathrooms: Minimum number (e.g., 4 bedrooms, 3 baths) - Square Footage: Minimum interior living space (e.g., 2,200+ sq. ft.) - Lot/Outdoor Space: Yard size, privacy, fenced yard, or space for pool/outdoor living - Location: - Safety & Noise: Low-traffic street, no major road behind property - Amenities: Garage size (2-3 car), laundry room, home office space - Condition: Move-in ready (no major repairs needed) 💡 Like to Have (Nice extras, but not deal breakers) These are desirable features that would enhance the home but aren’t mandatory. - Finishes: Upgraded kitchen (granite/quartz, newer appliances), modern bathrooms - Special Features: Fireplace, vaulted ceilings, walk-in closets, pantry, bonus/loft room - Outdoor: Covered patio, built-in BBQ, pool/spa, landscaped yard - Energy Efficiency: Solar panels, dual-pane windows, smart home systems - Community Amenities: Gated community, clubhouse, pool, lake, or gym - Views: City lights, hills, lakefront, golf course - Convenience: Proximity to shopping, freeway access, hospitals - Future Growth: Room for ADU, expansion, or rental opportunity 🚫 Don’t Want (Deal breakers) These are features or conditions that would immediately eliminate a property from consideration. - Location Issues: - Layout/Design: Choppy or closed floor plan, low ceilings, small bedrooms - Condition: Major deferred maintenance, outdated systems (roof, plumbing, electrical) - HOA Concerns: Very high fees, restrictive rules, poorly managed association - Lot Issues: Steep hillside, limited parking, no yard or outdoor space - Style Preferences: Don’t want a condo/townhome, split-level, or certain architectural styles - Other: No garage, poor natural light, strong odors (pets, smoke)

So you have decided that you’re going to buy a home and now all of a sudden, everyone comes out of the woodwork telling you what you should and what you shouldn’t do. This will happen every single time regardless of how many times you’ve been through the process. Everyone has something to say and likely each, and every opinion has some validity that was true for them at that time. The key here is making sure that you have the right team of professionals in place for you and you’re asking around, asking all the questions. And in the end, go with your gut! You’re the expert because you know what YOU want!