Buying your first home is such an exciting step, but it’s totally normal to feel a little overwhelmed too. Don’t worry—I’ve got your back! As someone who’s helped lots of first-time buyers in the NW Suburbs of Chicago, I know how to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Let’s walk through some tips to help you feel confident and prepared as you start this journey.
1. Start With Your Budget
The first step is figuring out how much you can comfortably afford. Take a good look at your income, monthly expenses, and savings. Don’t forget to include extra costs like property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintenance when estimating your budget.
Pro Tip: Before you even start looking at homes, get pre-approved for a mortgage. It not only gives you a clear budget but also makes you more appealing to sellers.
2. Work With the Right Realtor (This Is Key!)
I can’t stress this enough—having the right Realtor by your side can make all the difference. You want someone who knows the local market, listens to your needs, and will walk you through every step of the process. That’s exactly what I do for my clients! My goal is to make sure you feel informed and supported, every step of the way. If you aren’t in my area, I have a network of great agents and would be happy to help connect you with someone.
3. Understand the Local Market
The real estate market changes depending on location and timing. In areas like Arlington Heights and Buffalo Grove, homes can sell quickly. That’s why having someone like me who understands the NW Suburbs market is so valuable—I’ll help you navigate the trends and plan a smart strategy.
4. Get Clear on Your Must-Haves
Before you start touring homes, think about what’s most important to you. Do you need a certain number of bedrooms? A big yard? A location close to work or schools? Knowing your priorities will help you focus on the homes that truly fit your needs.
Local Tip: In the NW Suburbs, think about what lifestyle perks matter to you—like being near Lake Arlington, great schools, or Arlington Heights’ vibrant downtown area.
5. Don’t Skip the Home Inspection
Even if a home looks perfect, you never know what might be hiding beneath the surface. A home inspection is your chance to make sure everything is in good shape. Be sure to attend the inspection—it’s a great opportunity to learn more about the house.
6. Be Ready to Move Quickly
In a competitive market, homes can sell fast. Once you find a home you love, you’ll want to act quickly and make a strong offer. Don’t worry—I’ll guide you through the process to make sure your offer is solid and stands out.
7. Budget for Closing Costs
A lot of first-time buyers focus on the down payment but forget about closing costs. These typically range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price and include things like appraisal fees, title insurance, and attorney fees. I’ll help you understand these costs upfront so you’re fully prepared.
8. Think Long-Term
When you’re buying your first home, it’s important to think ahead. Will this home fit your needs in the next few years? Whether it’s space for a growing family, a home office, or room for hobbies, make sure you’re choosing a home that works for your future.
9. Stay Calm During Negotiations
Negotiations can feel stressful, but that’s where I step in. I’ll handle the back-and-forth for you—whether it’s price, contingencies, or inspection repairs—so you can stay focused on the big picture.
10. Trust the Process
Buying your first home is a big step, and it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions along the way. The key is to take it one step at a time and lean on your Realtor (me!) to guide you. You’ve got this!
Let’s Get Started!
I hope these tips help you feel more prepared to take on the homebuying journey! If you’re ready to start—or just have questions—I’d love to help. You can call or text me at 630-267-1808, email me at [email protected], or book a time to chat at the link below.
Let’s make your dream of owning a home a reality. I can’t wait to help you find the perfect place to call home!
About Mari Van Meter
Mari Van Meter is an award-winning Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices American Heritage, leading the Fly Home Dragonfly team. Specializing in digital and traditional marketing, Mari focuses on NW Suburban Chicago, especially Arlington Heights. She offers exclusive off-market properties and guarantees satisfaction for buyers and sellers.
Active in her community and at Countryside Church Unitarian Universalist in Palatine, Mari supports local businesses and champions diversity, equity, and inclusion.
For expert real estate guidance, contact Mari at 630-267-1808 or schedule a discovery call at calendly.com/marivanmeter/discovery-call.
