Your 2026 First-HomeGame Plan (and What to Skip)

Slide 1
Do: shop lenders; 0.25% difference saves thousands long-term.

Slide 2
Do: negotiate concessions—50% deals cover closing costs, even rate buydowns.

Slide 3
Do: target fixer-uppers, refinance in 6–12 months, build equity fast.

Slide 4
Don’t wait for 4% rates or price crashes—forecasts show 1–3% rises in home prices.

Slide 5
Don’t ignore taxes, insurance, PMI—get preapproved before competition spikes.