The $6.5 Million Difference: Why Starting Early (in Any Investment) Matters Most
If you’ve followed me for more than five minutes, you know I believe real estate is one of the smartest ways to invest and build long-term wealth. But today, I want to zoom out and think about how investing beyond real estate fits into your bigger financial picture. Because before we talk about what you […]
The Perfect Home Doesn’t Exist — and That’s a Good Thing
One of the biggest traps first-time buyers fall into is chasing the “perfect home.” The right street. The dream kitchen. The ideal price. The perfect timing. But that mindset usually leads to one thing: analysis paralysis. Instead of moving forward, buyers get stuck in a loop of scrolling, second-guessing, and waiting for a flawless mix […]
What is an Earnest Money Deposit (and Why It Matters in Virginia Closings)
If you’re buying a home in Virginia, you’ll be asked to make an earnest money deposit soon after your offer is accepted. And if you’re like most first-time buyers, your first question might be: “Wait… I have to send thousands of dollars already?” Here’s what it actually means — and why it matters. What Is […]
Harrisonburg Starter Homes Under $300K (2025)
If you’re a first-time home buyer interested in the market, you might be thinking one of a few things about finding Harrisonburg starter homes under $300K: For the first two doubts, I have good news. And it’s probably more uplifting than you expect. As of today, there are currently 32 Harrisonburg starter homes under $300K […]
The Truth About Cheap Houses in Harrisonburg
Think that cheap house is a steal? In Harrisonburg, low prices often hide costly problems. Here’s how to avoid the trap.
Should You Use a Loan Buydown? Here’s What It Is — and When It Makes Sense
Ever hear someone talk about a “rate buydown” and instantly tune out? You’re not alone. It sounds like insider mortgage speak — but this one’s actually worth understanding. If you’re a first-time buyer or thinking about getting serious in the next year or two, here’s why a loan buydown might be one of the smartest […]
How to Buy Your First Home in Your Early Twenties
Think home-ownership is something you tackle “later in life”? The data says otherwise. According to the Federal Reserve, 26% of Americans aged 18 to 29 already own a home. The National Association of Realtors found that 14% of all home-buyers are between 22 and 30. So if you’re in your early twenties and wondering if […]
Is Now a Bad Time to Buy? Not If You Know What You’re Doing
People frequently ask me, “Is now a bad time to buy a home?” Honestly? That’s the wrong question. A better one is: “What’s your strategy?” Yeah—rates are high. Inventory’s low. But that doesn’t mean buying right now is a bad move. That kind of thinking puts the market in control, not you. If you’re just […]
How I’d Win a Bidding War in Harrisonburg
We’re in a seller’s market. Inventory is low, and when a great home hits the market, it moves fast—often with multiple offers on the table. If you’re not ready with a strategy the moment that listing goes live, you could miss it. So how do you actually win in a market like Harrisonburg, where competition […]
What Happens After You Go Under Contract? (Harrisonburg Edition)
You made the offer. The seller accepted. You’re under contract. So… now what? For first-time buyers, this next stretch—from “yes” to closing—can feel like the murkiest part. Here’s what to expect once the deal’s in motion. 1. Apply for your loan Even if you’re pre-approved, your lender still needs updated documents to lock things in. […]