A first-time homebuyer and architect shares how she and her husband overcame student debt fears, aligned financially, and bought a $562,500 home faster than they thought possible.

Arlenne believed student debt and limited savings would keep her from buying a home. After speaking with a lender, she learned her debt-to-income ratio mattered more than her total debt balance. She and her husband worked through different money mindsets and created a plan together. In this episode, she shares how the right lender, Realtor, and financial clarity helped them buy their first home in Florida.

“Call the lender right away and start talking numbers because you have no idea where you actually are and your buying capability.” — Arlenne

Highlights

Think student debt is stopping you from buying a home?
How much house can you actually afford right now?
What happens when couples have different money styles?
What does a professional architect look for in a home?

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David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades 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.

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