Buying your first home is one of the most exciting milestones in life—but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. Between understanding mortgages, navigating inspections, and making sense of all the paperwork, it’s easy to feel like you’re learning a new language.

That’s why having the right guidance and resources is so important. If you’re a first-time homebuyer in Ohio or Kentucky, The Cindy Shetterly Team—ranked the #1 Team in the Keller Williams Ohio Valley Region—is here to help you move from curious shopper to confident homeowner. Here’s everything you need to know before signing on the dotted line.

Before you start scrolling through listings or touring open houses, it’s crucial to take a close look at your finances. Start by reviewing your credit score, as it plays a major role in determining your mortgage interest rate. The higher your score, the better your loan terms will be. If your score could improve, paying down credit card debt and avoiding new credit inquiries can make a big difference.

Next, set a realistic budget. Many first-time buyers assume that if they’re approved for a certain loan amount, they can comfortably afford that home—but that’s not always true. Your mortgage payment is just one piece of the puzzle. You’ll also need to factor in property taxes, homeowners insurance, utilities, and ongoing maintenance costs. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a monthly housing cost that doesn’t exceed 30% of your gross income.

Finally, start saving for your down payment and closing costs. While 20% down is often ideal, many first-time buyers qualify for loans that require less—sometimes as little as 3%. You’ll also need to budget for closing costs, which typically range between 2% and 5% of the purchase price.

Once you’ve reviewed your finances, the next step is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This process involves a lender reviewing your income, credit history, and debts to determine how much you can borrow. Pre-approval not only helps you understand your price range but also shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer.

When shopping for a lender, don’t just focus on the interest rate—ask about loan types, fees, and turnaround times. Depending on your situation, different programs, such as FHA, VA, or USDA loans, may offer better terms. Working with an experienced real estate team like The Cindy Shetterly Team can help you connect with trusted local lenders who specialize in guiding first-time buyers.

Having the right agent by your side makes all the difference—especially when you’re new to the process. A knowledgeable agent will not only help you find homes that meet your needs but also explain every step along the way. They’ll provide insight into local neighborhoods, school districts, and property values while handling the logistics of showings, offers, and negotiations.

The Cindy Shetterly Team takes pride in helping first-time buyers in Ohio and Kentucky feel confident and informed from day one. With decades of combined experience and a deep understanding of the regional market, the team knows how to spot opportunities, avoid pitfalls, and advocate for your best interests every step of the way.

Before diving into showings, make a list of what you’re looking for in a home. Think about your current lifestyle and what your future might look like in five or ten years. Do you need extra space for a growing family? A short commute to work? A backyard for your pets? Prioritize your “must-haves” (like the number of bedrooms or location) and “nice-to-haves” (like an updated kitchen or walk-in closet).

Your agent can help refine your wishlist and set realistic expectations based on your budget and preferred neighborhoods. Remember, no home is perfect—but with the right guidance, you can find one that checks all the boxes that matter most to you.

Now comes the fun part—house hunting! When touring homes, take detailed notes and photos so you can easily compare properties later. Look beyond surface-level details and focus on the home’s structure, layout, and condition. Pay attention to signs of wear, such as cracks, moisture, or outdated systems, which could lead to costly repairs down the road.

Don’t rush into a decision. Buying your first home is an emotional process, but keeping a level head and trusting your agent’s advice will help you make the best choice.

Once you’ve found “the one,” it’s time to make an offer. Your real estate agent will help you determine a fair offer price based on comparable sales in the area, the home’s condition, and current market trends. In competitive markets, you may need to move quickly or include an escalation clause to strengthen your offer.

Your agent will also walk you through contingencies—conditions that must be met before the sale is finalized, such as home inspections or financing approval. Having an experienced team like The Cindy Shetterly Team on your side ensures your offer is both competitive and protected.

Once your offer is accepted, you must schedule a home inspection. This step is essential for uncovering hidden issues, such as roof damage, plumbing problems, or electrical concerns. A professional inspector will provide a detailed report, and your agent can help you negotiate repairs or credits with the seller based on the findings.

Your lender will also require a home appraisal to confirm the property’s market value matches the loan amount. If the appraisal comes in lower than expected, your agent can guide you through renegotiations or other solutions to keep the deal on track.

With the inspection and appraisal complete, it’s time to finalize your mortgage. Review your loan documents carefully, paying attention to the interest rate, monthly payment, and loan term. You’ll also receive a closing disclosure outlining your final costs and payment schedule. Make sure everything matches your expectations—this is your last opportunity to clarify any details before signing.

Before closing day, you’ll do a final walk-through of the property to ensure everything is in the agreed-upon condition. Then, it’s time to sign your paperwork, transfer funds, and receive the keys to your new home. Congratulations—you’re officially a homeowner!

After closing, take time to celebrate this huge achievement. But remember, owning a home also comes with new responsibilities. Create a maintenance schedule to keep your home in top condition, including regular HVAC servicing, gutter cleaning, and checking for leaks. Setting aside a small monthly repair amount will help you avoid unexpected financial stress.

You’ll also want to review your homeowners insurance annually and consider upgrades that improve efficiency, comfort, and value. Homeownership is a long-term investment, and taking care of it ensures lasting rewards.

Buying your first home doesn’t have to be intimidating—especially when you have the right team by your side. The Cindy Shetterly Team has helped countless first-time buyers in Ohio and Kentucky navigate the process with ease, providing expert advice, market insight, and personalized support every step of the way.

When you’re ready to start your homebuying journey, trust the #1 Team in the Keller Williams Ohio Valley Region to guide you. Visit kentuckyandohiohomes.com today to explore available listings, connect with an expert agent, and take your first step toward owning the home of your dreams.