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  "headline": "Navigating Your First Home Purchase: What to Expect",
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    "name": "Kelby Contreras - Realty ONE Group Evolution",
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  "articleBody": "Buying your first home can feel like a huge undertaking, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. You're probably wondering about affordability, what specific loan programs you qualify for, and how much cash you'll actually need at closing. It’s smart to get a clear picture of the whole process before diving in. Most first-time buyers start by assessing their financial situation—income, debts, credit, and savings—to understand what they can comfortably afford. This helps determine your budget and what loan programs might be a good fit. Then, getting prequalification or preapproval from a lender gives you a realistic idea of your borrowing power, which is crucial when you start looking at properties. Remember to compare Loan Estimates from at least three different lenders; don't just look at the interest rate, but the total costs involved. Once you find the right place, you’ll submit an offer, and then the underwriting, inspection, appraisal, and title work begin. Federal disclosure rules usually mean you'll get your Closing Disclosure at least three business days before closing, giving you time to review everything. This whole journey, while exciting, has several moving parts, and having a clear understanding of each stage will make it much smoother. What to Expect During the Process: You'll typically start with a financial assessment and pre-approval, then move to property search, offer submission, and finally the underwriting, inspection, and appraisal phases. Your lender will guide you through documentation requests, and it's essential to respond quickly. The closing process requires reviewing the Closing Disclosure carefully before the final settlement. A real estate professional, like Kelby Contreras at Realty ONE Group Evolution, can help interpret offers and transaction milestones, ensuring you’re supported from start to finish. Contact Kelby Contreras today for a personalized consultation on your first home purchase.",
  "datePublished": "2026-10-01"
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