Tag Archives : first time home buyer

24 years ago, Tom and I started our business. Tom was sitting in a $5 plastic chair from Food Lion. After some initial success, we could have clearly bought a chair but we were using what we had, reinvesting in our business and education. I’ll never forget when the arm broke off and was flapping around.

I couldn’t find the picture of Tom sitting in the chair (probably for the best)
Here’s the thing — it’s easy to get caught up in how things look. None of that matters if you’re not doing the work. Lead with revenue. Earn the right to upgrade. And until then? Sit in the $5 chair!

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My first love language? Words of affirmation. My second? Strategy.
Tom and I are always buying, always studying the market, always thinking five steps ahead. But even for us, it’s not always easy.
I know so many of you feel the same way. You’re sitting in a house with a sweet 2.5% interest rate, thinking, Why would I give this up? You want more space, a better location, a fresh start—but that low rate feels like golden handcuffs. And the fear of making the wrong move? It’s real.
But here’s what I know: fear keeps people stuck, and stuck people don’t build wealth.
If rates drop, that dream home you’ve been waiting for? It just got further out of reach. And if you’re holding out for the perfect time to sell? The second inventory rises, we’re back to price wars and beauty pageants.
This market isn’t about waiting—it’s about strategy! The people who win aren’t the ones sitting on the sidelines, hoping for perfect conditions. They’re the ones who understand the game, make smart moves, and position themselves for the future.
Even when it feels scary, t r u s t. Because no one builds wealth or changes their life by waiting for permission. – Joanne

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Joanne Curtin from Roswell, Georgia knows that the current real estate market may be tough to handle but if you follow your DREAM and have support – YOU CAN SUCCEED TOO!
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As shared in the second edition of Your First Home, written by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan:

“Buying a home is a big decision – particularly your first home – but it is one of the best choices anyone can make. It’s a place that is entirely your own. Something you can paint, renovate, and live a full life in. Secondly, the reality is that homes are an incredible way to accumulate generational wealth. Because home isn’t only where your heart is, it’s where your money is, too. There are few places you will treasure more than your home and no place that will add more to your personal treasury.”

While the prospect of homeownership is exciting, it can also be filled with complexities as you embark on the journey for the very first time. Yet, have no fear! If you’d like to receive a copy of the book that contains a complete guide to first-time homebuying, Your First Home, fill out this form and we will get a copy to you!

Click HERE To Receive Your Free Guide

Deciding to Buy

First-time homebuyer fears can range from “I can’t afford to buy a home” to “I can’t buy a home because my credit score is too bad.” While it can be natural to have these thoughts, it’s important to face fears with facts. Let’s take affordability, for instance.

Fear #1: “I can’t afford to buy a home now.”

Fact: Until you do the math, you don’t know what you can or can’t afford.

If you are currently paying rent, generally you can afford to buy. From a financial point of view, in the United States, the tax savings on mortgage interest alone usually make up most of the difference between your rent and mortgage payments – the tax write-offs you get at the end of the year will generally help you save a lot of money.

Additionally, depending on your credit score, you can end up affording more than you realize. The credit scores used for mortgage lending take on a much larger picture of your overall credit score.

Although there may be a higher initial cost to buying a house, if you’re planning on staying in one place for a few years, the equity you build can end up being a financial boon. And did you know that even if you’ve owned a home, you might still be considered a “first-time” buyer? Under many programs, the definition of a first-time homebuyer includes someone who’s never owned a home or who hasn’t owned a home in the past three years.

Fear #2: “I should wait until the real estate market gets better.”

Fact: There is never a wrong time to buy the right home.

Whether “right” means the right price or the right property for you, waiting for the perfect market timing seldom works to your advantage. If you don’t believe us, look back to the Great Recession when the bubble around the housing market burst, GDP declined 4.5%, and unemployment rose to around 9.5%. But like those who endured the Great Depression, those who lived through the Great Recession made it through and benefited from an era of financial growth. In fact, immediately following the Great Recession, the United States entered the longest period of rising prices and general prosperity since World War II.

In the end, there are two ways to make money in real estate: timing and time. Either you happen upon the right moment to purchase before prices appreciate, or you hold it long enough for appreciation to make your investment worthwhile. If you miss the first, you can most certainly count on the second.

Fear #3: “I don’t have the money for a down payment.”

Fact: There are a variety of down-payment options available to you.

While many believe that buying a home requires a substantial down payment, as much as 20%, this is seldom true. You can buy with as little as 5% down – sometimes even less. Moreover, most states have down-payment assistance programs that can help.

House-hacking is also a great way to make homeownership more affordable. This involves purchasing a property and leasing out a bedroom or unit to offset your mortgage. Alternatively, platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo can generate income to cover your mortgage while you’re away.

Fear #4: “I can’t buy a home because my credit score isn’t good.”

Fact: A less-than-perfect credit score won’t necessarily prevent you from buying a home.

A poor credit score shouldn’t stop you from talking to lenders. A good loan officer or mortgage specialist can help resolve credit challenges, sometimes by consolidating debts or referring you to a credit counselor.

If you have no credit history because you’re new to the workforce or haven’t made purchases on credit, alternative solutions exist. A cosigner (such as a parent) can help, or lenders may consider alternative forms of credit history like rent and utility payments.

As real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran advises:

“The perfect time to buy a house? When you can afford the down payment–not when you’re waiting for the ‘perfect’ market. Houses went up 4% this last year. They’re even going to go up more next year. So you’re not really saving anything by waiting.”

The pattern will continue: Prices will rise. Interest rates won’t drop drastically. The sooner you buy, the better.

Finding Your Agent

The legal, financing, and regulatory aspects of real estate transactions are complex. To navigate them successfully, finding a licensed real estate agent is crucial. A good agent serves as an advocate for your interests, ensuring a smooth and informed process.

What a Real Estate Agent Does:

Educates you about the market
Analyzes your wants and needs
Guides you to homes that fit your criteria
Coordinates with professionals like inspectors and lenders
Negotiates on your behalf
Manages paperwork and deadlines
Solves any problems that arise
Questions to ask when choosing an agent:

Why did you become a real estate agent?
Why should I work with you?
What process will you use to help me find the right home?
Shape

Securing Financing

While owning a home is exciting, mortgages can seem daunting. However, the basics come down to four key factors:

Down Payment: You don’t necessarily need 20% down; assistance programs exist.
Interest Rate: Lower rates save you money in the long run.
Term: 15, 20, or 30-year loans impact your equity-building and payments.
Loan Type: Fixed-rate vs. adjustable-rate mortgages affect long-term costs.
Shape

Homeownership is one of the best financial decisions you can make. While fears exist, facts reveal that buying a home is more achievable than many realize. The sooner you start, the more wealth you build over time. If you’re ready to take the leap, our team at the Curtin Team is here to guide you every step of the way!

Have questions? Click HERE to receive information on our next live Home Buyer Workshop where you can learn more and get all your questions answered.

I have a masters in early childhood education. I spent 5 years teaching during the day and working nights at a restaurant. Then, in 2001, I quit!
But here’s the thing—I didn’t just quit to escape; I quit to build something better.
It’s okay to run away from something that isn’t serving you. But never quit unless you’re running toward something greater.
That decision changed my life. Because wealth, freedom, and success aren’t found in playing it safe—they’re built by those willing to bet on themselves.
Go make a move and level up! — Joanne

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Hey y’all, it’s Joanne! I just got back from Keller Williams’ Family Reunion, where Gary Keller gave his annual Vision Speech—breaking down what’s happening in the housing market and what it means for all of us. And let me tell you, there’s a lot to unpack!

Now, I know the headlines can be overwhelming, and you might be wondering:
“Is now a good time to buy or sell? Should I wait? What’s next?”
So, let’s talk about it in real terms—because while the market is shifting, there’s still plenty of opportunity out there.

Where We Are Now: The Big Picture
The real estate market is definitely feeling a slowdown, with home sales projected to be around 4.2 million in 2025—the lowest we’ve seen in nearly 30 years. That’s a big shift from what we got used to in the past decade. Now, historically, when the market dips like this, it takes about three to four years to fully bounce back, which means we may not see things feel truly ‘normal’ again until 2026 or later.

KWFR 2025

But before you panic—let’s put things in perspective.

Home prices are still strong overall, and while we saw some crazy price jumps after the pandemic, things are trending back toward affordability. In other words, real estate is still one of the best investments you can make—it’s just about knowing how to navigate today’s market.

2025 KWFR

For Buyers: What You Need to Know

If you’re thinking about buying, here’s some good news for you:

Price Stability – Even though the number of homes sold is lower, the overall market is still moving. In fact, 2024 saw $2.2 trillion in home sales—making it the third-best year on record. That tells us that home values aren’t falling off a cliff.

More Negotiation Power – We’re seeing more price reductions—from 24% of listings in early 2024 to 31% in early 2025. That means more room to negotiate and better deals for buyers! And as more inventory hits the market, that trend should continue.

Real Estate is a Long-Term Game – If you’re waiting for the “perfect” time to buy—you might be waiting forever. The truth is, real estate appreciates over time, and the sooner you get in, the better your long-term returns. Like Jay Papasan (one of the smartest guys in the business) said, “Don’t wait to buy real estate. Buy real estate and wait.”

Bottom line? If you find the right home at the right price and it fits your budget, don’t be afraid to go for it!

For Sellers: What to Expect

If you’re thinking about selling, you can still win in this market—you just have to be strategic.

Homes Are Taking Longer to Sell – With fewer buyers in the market, homes aren’t flying off the shelves overnight like they did a couple of years ago. That means pricing right from the start is more important than ever. Overpricing will just cause your home to sit longer and force price cuts later.

Less Transactions, More Volume – There are fewer deals happening, but when they do, they’re still moving big dollar amounts. This means there’s still demand, but buyers are being more selective—so you’ve got to stand out.

Stay Positive & Work with the Right Agent – The long-term outlook is still strong for real estate. Home values hold steady over time, and working with an experienced agent (hi!) can help you price, market, and sell your home the right way.

Final Thoughts: There’s Still Opportunity!

I know the market feels uncertain right now, but here’s the truth: there’s never a “bad” time to buy or sell—only a bad strategy.

If you’re buying, now’s the time to negotiate strong and take advantage of price reductions. If you’re selling, it’s all about smart pricing and great marketing to attract serious buyers.

The best thing you can do? Stay informed, get good advice, and don’t let fear make your decisions for you. If you have questions, we’re here to help—whether you’re buying, selling, or just trying to make sense of it all.

Did you know the real estate market affects you, even if you’re not planning to move or buy a home? Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or just curious about the economy, the housing market has a ripple effect on everything from personal finances to the broader economy. Understanding these trends can help you stay ahead and make smarter decisions for your future. Curious how? Let’s dive in!

Here are answers and my predictions to four of the most common questions we’re hearing right now:

When Will Mortgage Rates Come Down?
Mortgage rates are influenced by the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy, overall economic conditions, the labor market, and even the geopolitical landscape. Rates have risen as the Fed works to combat inflation. While there’s no exact timeline, many experts suggest rates could stabilize or decrease once inflation is under control and the economy shows consistent signs of improvement. Some predict this could happen in 2025, but it ultimately depends on economic data and future Fed decisions.

For buyers, waiting for lower rates might not always be the best strategy. Acting strategically—such as locking in today’s rates—can make sense, especially as high rates have reduced buyer competition. This often means better negotiating power when purchasing a home.

My prediction? Mortgage rates likely won’t meaningfully reduce until 2026.

When Will Home Prices Come Down?
In short, they won’t—at least not significantly. Housing prices are driven by supply and demand. Currently, most markets in our area face a shortage of inventory, which keeps prices elevated. For prices to drop, we’d need a substantial increase in supply or a major drop in demand. However, cautious builders, a lack of large parcels of land, and homeowners holding onto their low mortgage rates make widespread price declines unlikely.

What we might see instead is a slower rate of appreciation, which offers buyers some relief but not a complete reversal of prices. This environment creates opportunities to purchase at more reasonable valuations with less competition, reducing the risk of buying at a market peak. It’s also a good time to explore long-term rental investments.

My prediction? Our area will return to a normal appreciation rate of 4–5% by 2025.

Will the Housing Market Pick Up Next Year?
The housing market’s trajectory in 2025 will depend on economic stability and consumer confidence. If mortgage rates start to decline, we could see increased buyer activity. Additionally, pent-up demand from buyers who paused their searches due to high rates or election uncertainty could drive new market momentum. Many of these buyers are waiting on the sidelines, ready to jump back in when conditions improve.

My prediction? 2025 will see more home sales than 2024. I do not foresee it as a boom, but
a higher volume than this past year

Is Now a Good Time to Buy?
A market crash like 2008 is improbable. The current market is underpinned by strong fundamentals: tighter lending standards, significant homeowner equity, and sustained demand. While there are challenges —such as affordability issues due to higher prices and rates — these don’t equate to a crash. Instead, the market is undergoing a correction, with cooling in overly hot areas and a shift toward more balanced conditions.What this looks like now is a home selling process that involves negotiation on both sides, more balance between a buyer and seller market. The market will always have fluctuations and instead of fixating on timing the market, focus on securing a home that fits your needs and budget. For both buyers and sellers, this is a time to work closely with real estate professionals to navigate the evolving landscape.

My prediction? While the market presents challenges, strategic buyers who act now can benefit from reduced competition and position themselves for long-term appreciation and stability.

Final Thoughts
The real estate market is always changing, influenced by everything from the economy to politics and even social trends. While rising rates and limited inventory might feel like obstacles, they also open the door to unique opportunities for savvy buyers and investors. By staying informed and understanding the bigger picture, you can make confident decisions—whether you’re searching for your dream home, exploring investment options, or just keeping an eye on the market. Want to know how current trends could impact your plans? Reach out to us today, and let’s discuss your goals!

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re unsure where to start. Even if you think you’re not ready, proper preparation can help you jump on the right opportunity when it comes. As experienced real estate agents, we’ve had the privilege of helping countless first-time buyers navigate this process. This guide will walk you through what to expect and how to prepare for the journey ahead. Let’s dive into the key steps of buying your first home!

Step 1: Assess Your Financial Situation to Determine Your Homebuying Budget
Before you start dreaming about your ideal home, you need to understand your financial situation. Knowing your credit score, monthly budget, and how much you can realistically afford are essential first steps. Take the time to review your financial standing. This means looking at your savings, debts, and any other expenses that may impact your mortgage eligibility.

A great starting point is to connect with a lender. They can help you figure out how much you can borrow and set realistic expectations before you begin your house search. Pre-approval strengthens your offer later and shows sellers that you’re serious about buying.

Step 2: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage to Speed Up the Process
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is crucial in today’s competitive market. It shows sellers that you are a legitimate buyer and helps you set a concrete budget for your house hunt. The pre-approval process involves submitting financial documents such as tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, and employment verification.

If you haven’t yet chosen a lender, don’t worry! We work closely with trusted mortgage professionals who specialize in helping first-time buyers. Getting pre-approved also means you’ll know exactly what kind of mortgage you qualify for, giving you confidence as you start your search.

Step 3: Identify Your Needs vs. Wants in a Home
Now comes the fun part—imagining what your new home will look like! But first, you’ll need to distinguish between your “must-haves” and your “nice-to-haves.” For instance, do you need three bedrooms, or could you get by with two? Is a large backyard essential, or could a smaller one work if the house is in the right neighborhood?

Listing your needs and wants helps streamline your search and ensures you don’t get distracted by features that aren’t necessary. This will keep you focused and prevent any future regrets.

Step 4: Start Touring Homes That Fit Your Criteria
House hunting can be one of the most enjoyable parts of the process, but it can also be overwhelming. We can guide you through various neighborhoods and homes that meet your criteria. As exciting as it can be to tour different properties, remember to stay grounded in your budget and priorities.

It’s normal to have to make compromises, but don’t feel pressured into buying a home that doesn’t meet your most important needs. With patience, you’ll find a house that checks off most of the boxes!

Step 5: Make an Offer on Your Dream Home
Found the perfect home? Great! Now it’s time to make an offer. This is where things can get a little nerve-wracking, but don’t worry—we’re here to help you craft a competitive offer based on current market trends and property value.

We’ll negotiate on your behalf, whether it’s the final purchase price, closing costs, or contingencies, to ensure you get the best possible deal. And remember, it’s not just about offering the highest price but also about presenting the most appealing terms to the seller.

Step 6: Conduct a Home Inspection Before You Finalize the Deal
Once your offer is accepted, the next crucial step is the home inspection. A professional home inspector will assess the property to ensure there are no major structural or mechanical issues. The inspection will give you peace of mind and help you avoid any unwanted surprises after closing.

If the inspection uncovers any problems, we’ll help negotiate repairs or price adjustments to address these issues. After this, you’ll be ready to move forward with the closing process.

Step 7: Close the Deal and Get the Keys to Your New Home
The final step is closing, where you’ll finalize your mortgage and sign all the necessary paperwork. Once everything is completed, you’ll receive the keys to your new home.
Congratulations, you’re officially a homeowner!

Final Thoughts: Your Journey to Homeownership
Buying your first home can feel intimidating at times, but with the right preparation and guidance, it’s one of the most rewarding experiences. From setting a budget to closing the deal, each step is essential in making your homeownership dreams come true.

If you’re thinking about taking the plunge or simply want to learn more about the process, feel free to reach out. We’re here to guide you every step of the way, turning your homeownership dreams into reality!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much should I save for a down payment on my first home?
Typically, first-time homebuyers should aim for a down payment of at least 5% to 20% of the home’s purchase price. However, some loan programs offer lower down payment options.

2. How does getting pre-approved for a mortgage help?
A mortgage pre-approval helps you understand your borrowing power, sets your budget, and strengthens your offer when bidding on a home.

3. What should I prioritize when house hunting?
Focus on your needs first—such as location, size, and budget. Wants like extra space or luxury finishes can come second to make sure you stay within budget.

4. How long does the home-buying process take?
From start to finish, the home-buying process typically takes 30 to 60 days, depending on factors like loan approval and the local housing market.

5. Is a home inspection necessary?
Yes! A home inspection ensures there are no hidden issues with the property that could cause problems later. It’s a crucial step before finalizing any purchase.

In this Agent Spotlight video, we introduce Eveline Matthaeus, a dedicated buyer’s agent on the Curtin Team. Eveline brings a wealth of professional expertise to our team, with a background in marketing from Unilever and management advisory from Andersen Consulting. Her unique specialization in assisting expats stems from her personal experience of relocating her family from Switzerland, giving her invaluable insights into the challenges and stresses associated with such moves.

Fluent in four languages, Eveline excels at connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Her love for data analytics, paired with her honed negotiation skills, provides her clients with a strategic advantage in the competitive real estate market.

Having embraced Georgia and its warm Southern hospitality, Eveline enjoys exploring the area with her husband Marc and their three kids, often accompanied by their beloved rescue dog, Youpi. Whether she’s leading them on adventurous hikes or diligently maintaining her backyard oasis, Eveline brings passion and dedication to every aspect of her life.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Curtin Team channel to stay updated on more enriching content like this!

WATCH THE FULL EPISODE HERE

Hey Kids,

As you start exploring the world of real estate investment, I want to share some insights I’ve picked up over the years. Our hometown of Roswell offers opportunities for smart investments. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the real estate landscape and find your own path to success.

Roswell is famous for its beautiful historic homes, top-rated schools, and cool vibe. When thinking about investments, it’s important to understand what makes this area special. Check out market trends, property values, and neighborhood vibes. Keep an eye on new businesses, infrastructure projects, and zoning changes that can boost property values.

You’ve probably heard this a million times, but it’s true: location is everything in real estate. In Roswell, great locations often mean being close to excellent schools, parks, shopping centers, and restaurants. Look for properties in areas like Historic Roswell or nice established neighborhoods. A prime location can make a big difference in rental income and property value.

While Roswell has plenty to offer, it’s smart to diversify your real estate portfolio. Think about a mix of property types—single-family homes, townhouses, even commercial properties. Each type comes with its own perks and risks. Diversifying helps protect against market ups and downs and gives you a balanced approach to building wealth.

When looking at potential investments, check out the condition of the property. Older homes in Roswell might need some work, but they can be real gems if renovated properly. Look for places with room for improvement, like cosmetic updates or expansions. Investing in well-maintained properties or those with high potential can really pay off.

Tap into the expertise of local Realtors (like your ol’ dad here), property managers, and contractors. Their knowledge can give you valuable insights and help you make smart decisions. Networking with these pros can also lead you to off-market deals and opportunities you might not find on your own.

While short-term gains are tempting, real estate is often most rewarding when you think long-term. Consider how property values might appreciate over time and look for areas with strong growth potential. Buy real estate and wait, time will do the rest. Even if you don’t get a screaming deal when you purchase,over time you’re investment will continue to increase. Roswell’s mix of historic charm and modern amenities makes it a great place for long-term investment. Hold onto properties that are likely to grow in value and provide steady rental income. Don’t be tempted to sell with market ups and downs, stay the course.

The real estate market is always changing, so staying informed is crucial. Keep up with local market trends, economic factors, and zoning law changes. Attend local real estate seminars and join investment groups to stay connected and learn new things. Being adaptable and ready to tweak your strategy based on market conditions will help you stay ahead.

Financing is a big part of real estate investment. Explore different options like traditional mortgages, home equity loans, and private lenders. Knowing the terms and conditions of each option and developing trusted relationships with lenders will help you make the best financial decisions. Keep an eye on interest rates and loan conditions, as they can greatly impact your returns. Sometimes it makes sense to buy and lock in a longer term low rate even if the price isn’t great.

Real estate investment isn’t just about making money; it’s also about improving quality of life. Think about how your investments can benefit the community and enhance your own quality of life. Treat your tenants and property well and this will pay dividends over time and lead to sustainable and rewarding investments.

Investing in real estate offers a unique mix of opportunities and rewards. By understanding the market, focusing on prime locations, diversifying your investments, and leveraging local expertise, you can build a successful real estate portfolio. Stay informed, think long-term, and remember the importance of quality of life. With these principles in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making smart and rewarding real estate investments.

I’m so proud of you for taking this step. Remember, this journey is as much about learning and growing as it is about financial success. Trust your instincts, stay curious, and never hesitate to ask for advice. Don’t wait to buy real estate, buy real estate and wait. Here’s to your future success!

With love and wisdom,

Dad