5 Things to Know Before Buying a Home in Dayton, Ohio

1. Find a Realtor You Know, Like, and Trust

Not all Realtors offer the same level of service. Find someone who genuinely puts your interests first, understands your local market, communicates consistently, and negotiates confidently.

Your Realtor should be more than someone who opens doors. They should be your advocate, advisor, and resource throughout the entire transaction. And honestly? The best Realtors are your advisor and a resource for a lifetime, not just during the transaction.

My advice: Interview Realtors, read their reviews, and choose someone you feel comfortable asking questions and having honest conversations with.

2. Find the Right Mortgage Lender

Your lender will have a significant impact on both your finances and your overall home-buying experience.

Look for someone who communicates proactively, responds promptly, and helps you compare mortgage programs that make the most sense for your financial situation.

Don't focus exclusively on the advertised interest rate. Compare rates, APRs, closing costs, loan terms, and available assistance programs. Ask multiple lenders for comparable Loan Estimates.

My advice: A competitive mortgage is important, but so is having a loan officer you can depend on when deadlines, questions, or unexpected issues arise. I've worked with Thien Mach at NFM Lending on many transactions, and in my experience, he's second to none when it comes to communication, professionalism, and taking care of clients. Buyers can choose any lender they want and they should do so with their best interests in mind.

3. Get Preapproved Before Touring Homes

A mortgage preapproval helps you understand your estimated purchasing power and makes you better prepared when you find a home you love.

It also gives you and your Realtor a clearer direction when identifying properties that fit your financial situation.

My advice: Get your financing organized before falling in love with a house. It's much easier to shop confidently when you know your numbers.

4. Know What You Can Comfortably Afford

Just because you're approved for a $400,000 home doesn't necessarily mean you should buy one.

Your monthly housing expenses can include your mortgage, property taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, and possibly HOA fees. You'll also need to budget for utilities and maintenance.

.

My advice: Build your budget around the payment you're comfortable living with, not simply the maximum amount a lender will approve.

5. Understand and Protect Your Credit

Your credit and work history play an important role in your mortgage eligibility and the interest rate you may qualify for.

Review your credit reports, correct any errors, and avoid unnecessary debt or new credit accounts before purchasing a home. You may also want to avoid switching employers until you talk with your lender on the topic.

My advice: Hold off on financing that new car or making major purchases until you've spoken with your mortgage lender. Small financial decisions can have surprisingly big consequences during the approval process.

Ready to Start Your Homebuying Journey?

You don't need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Sometimes the best first step is simply having a conversation.

I'm Jace Brooks, a Realtor with Streetlight Realty, proudly serving Dayton and the surrounding Miami Valley.

Whether you're six months away from buying or ready to start touring tomorrow, I'd love to help you put together a plan.

Let's Make Your Next Move a Smart One. 🔑

Call or text: (937) 668-3242

www.jacebrooks.realtor