Buying your first home isn’t for the faint of heart — what Arizonans need to know

Matthew Coates

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Homeownership is personal, powerful and — done right — transformational. First-time buyers deserve to feel empowered, not overwhelmed. And that starts with knowledge.”

So, you decided to be one of the 4,110 first-time homebuyers that close on a home each day? To some, home is a place to finally exhale after years of uncertainty. To others, it’s a symbol of achievement — proof that hard work, saving and sacrifice have led to something tangible.

For first-time homebuyers, however, the journey toward owning a home is both exhilarating and overwhelming. I’ve stood on both sides of the equation — as a Realtor walking clients through open houses and as a loan officer helping them understand the numbers. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that buying a home isn’t just a transaction. It’s a life-shaping decision.

Homeownership sits atop Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs as a pinnacle of security and stability. It’s more than shelter; it’s emotional and financial grounding. But here’s the truth many aren’t told — first-time buyers are often underprepared, emotionally charged and unequipped to make one of the most important decisions of their lives.

Here’s what everyone looking to buy their first home should know:

Know the market

Real estate isn’t static. It fluctuates, swayed by interest rates, inventory and local demand. Following the trends doesn’t mean you have to time the market, but understanding where prices and rates stand today helps you make smarter choices. Knowledge is power — and protection.

Set your priorities

Most buyers can’t have it all, and that’s OK. Narrow down your must-haves, whether it’s proximity to work, school districts or the size of your backyard. Be honest about your deal-breakers. If you don’t define your goals early, you’ll end up chasing listings instead of building a life.

Get your finances in shape

Before you tour a single home, clean up your credit and review your debt-to-income ratio. Save as much money as you can — not just for the down payment, but for closing costs, moving expenses and the unexpected hiccups that always come.

Get preapproved, not just prequalified

Preapproval is more than a letter — it’s leverage. Sellers won’t take you seriously without it. More importantly, it gives you a clear, confident price range. There’s nothing worse than falling in love with a home you can’t actually afford.

Choose your Realtor wisely

A good agent does more than unlock doors. They interpret data, advocate fiercely and can sniff out red flags you’d never notice. First-time buyers especially benefit from a Realtor who doesn’t just close deals, but educates along the way.

Open houses are not casual walkthroughs

This is your future you’re walking through. Observe with intention. Check the condition of the home. Ask about roof age, HVAC systems and insulation. Don’t just admire the countertops — peek under sinks, check the foundation and imagine living there every single day.

Make an offer that makes sense

The highest offer isn’t always the best. Work with your agent to craft a strategic bid — one that balances market value, contingencies and timing. And when you make that offer, show your seriousness with earnest money.

Insist on the home inspection

Aesthetics can hide a multitude of problems. An independent home inspection could reveal structural issues, outdated wiring or plumbing nightmares. Never waive your right to know what you’re buying.

Understand the appraisal and mortgage process

Just because you love the home doesn’t mean the lender agrees. The appraisal ensures you’re not overpaying. Meanwhile, locking in your mortgage rate and finalizing terms are your last defense against financial missteps.

In the end, buying a home isn’t about crossing a finish line — it’s about building a foundation. It’s the quiet thrill of putting your key in the door, knowing everything inside is yours.

Homeownership is personal, powerful and — done right — transformational. First-time buyers deserve to feel empowered, not overwhelmed. And that starts with knowledge.

Because when you know better, you buy better.

Editor’s note: Matthew Coates is a senior loan officer with Scottsdale-based Green Home Loans. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.