STEP 1 | HOMEBUYING 101: Deciding Your Goals - 302

In this foundational episode of the "Ten Basic Steps to Buy a Home" series, David Sidoni challenges conventional wisdom by revealing that Step 1 isn't about getting pre-approved or finding a realtor – it's about making the fundamental decision to start planning your homebuying journey. Through real-world examples and myth-busting insights, he demonstrates why deciding to view homebuying as a rent replacement strategy, rather than a new expense, can transform your entire approach to homeownership. This mindset shift, backed by the confidence that comes from understanding the true process, is what sets successful first-time homebuyers apart in 2025's competitive market.Quote: "Buying a home is not taking on a new crazy expense... Buying a home is a rent replacement strategy."Highlights:What if you could start planning your home purchase today at no cost, even if you're 2-3 years away from buying?Could your belief in common myths like needing 20% down or a 700+ credit score be holding you back from starting your homebuying journey?Is "waiting for the crash" actually costing you more than taking action now with a solid plan?What's the real reason behind rising home prices in 2025, and how can understanding inventory levels help inform your decision?How might converting your monthly rent payment into mortgage payments help build long-term wealth instead of just covering 30 days of living?Could working with the right professionals earlier in your journey - way earlier than most people think - give you an advantage in today's market?Referenced Episodes:Episode 40, 48, 51 - "I Did It" success storiesEpisode 53 - Madison's condo purchase storyEpisode 151, 162, 168, 192, 219, 225 - Market updates and changesEpisode 251 - The Last Lease Ever planEpisode 274, 299 - JT's perspective episodesEpisode 290 - 2025 Forecast and PredictionsEpisode 296 - Market follow-upEpisode 98 - David's personal rental storyEpisode 164 - Chutes and Ladders analogyConnect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeThis podcast was created for YOU - to cut through the confusion and empower you to buy your first home. Let's change how the real estate industry treats first-timers, one buyer at a time- starting with YOU!Visit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with over 18 years of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!