Money Smarts Blog

I’ll be honest. Even working in financial services, buying a home still felt big.

Exciting. Nerve-wracking. A little overwhelming at times.

I recently went through the homebuying process myself, and while I’ve helped members navigate it for years, experiencing it firsthand reminded me how important preparation really is.

Before you start touring homes and picturing where the couch will go, here are five money moves I recommend making first , and yes, I made them myself.

1. Understand What You Can Afford AND What You Want to Afford

Pre-approval tells you what you qualify for. Your lifestyle tells you what you should spend.

When I was house shopping, I looked beyond the maximum approval amount. I considered utilities, property taxes, insurance, groceries, and everyday expenses. I wanted a payment that felt sustainable, not stretched.

Homeownership should feel exciting, not financially tight.

2. Review and Strengthen Your Credit

Before applying, I reviewed my credit carefully. Paying down balances and avoiding new debt can positively impact your interest rate.

Even small improvements in your credit profile can lead to long-term savings. It’s one of the simplest ways to put yourself in a stronger position before you begin.

3. Save Beyond the Down Payment

The down payment is only part of the picture.

There are closing costs, inspections, moving expenses, and sometimes immediate updates once you move in. I made sure to build a cushion beyond the minimum needed.

Having that extra breathing room made the transition into my new home much less stressful.

4. Avoid Major Financial Changes

This is one of the most important pieces of advice I give members, and I followed it closely myself.

Avoid opening new credit cards, financing large purchases, or making significant financial changes while you’re in the homebuying process. Even small shifts in your debt-to-income ratio can impact your loan approval.

Stability is key from application to closing.

5. Talk to a Mortgage Loan Officer Early

One of the smartest steps you can take before you even fall in love with a home is meeting with a Mortgage Loan Officer.

A conversation doesn’t commit you to anything. It gives you clarity. You’ll understand your options, what documentation you’ll need, what programs may fit your situation, and how to position yourself as a strong buyer.

If you’re not quite ready for that step, meeting with one of our Financial Coaches can also help you build a plan. They can walk through budgeting, savings strategies, and credit improvement so you feel fully prepared when the time comes.

Preparation removes uncertainty. And uncertainty is what makes buying a home feel stressful.

A Final Thought

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most of us will make. Even with years of experience in this industry, I approached it thoughtfully and intentionally.

The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel.

If you’re thinking about starting the process, connect with our team early. Whether it’s a Mortgage Loan Officer or a Financial Coach, we’re here to help you take that next step with confidence.

Because home should feel secure, financially and personally.