Use the 28/36 rule —housing costs should ideally not exceed 28% of your gross monthly income. Save for Upfront Costs: Down Payment: Typically 3% to 20% of the purchase price.
Before looking at listings, you must solidify your financial foundation to understand your true "borrowing power".
Buying a home is a complex process that typically takes about from initial planning to closing. In 2026, the market is expected to enter a recovery phase with lower interest rates driving increased transaction activity, making early preparation essential. Phase 1: Financial Preparation
