Worried you need a massive down payment or perfect market conditions to buy a home? David demolishes common homebuying myths by breaking down 24 essential terms for 2025, revealing surprising paths to homeownership – including options for single-income families, competitive market strategies, and alternative housing solutions. Quote: "PMI is not a huge expense and in fact it could be the greatest way for you to loan yourself an extra 30, 40, $50,000 for the low, low price of a couple hundred buc...
Dec 09, 2024•28 min•Ep 289•Transcript available on Metacast Think you need to win the lottery to buy your first home? Think again! David sits down with Madison, a 24-year-old homeowner who proves it's possible to achieve the dream of homeownership without winning the lottery (though if you do win, congrats!). They break down how she bought her condo, the fears she overcame, and why finding the right team is crucial for first-time homebuyers. Quote: "I'm making an investment every month, just like I'm doing with all of my other accounts." - Madison Highli...
Nov 27, 2024•54 min•Ep 288•Transcript available on Metacast Think homeownership is out of reach because you're drowning in rent and can't fathom a down payment? Think again! In this special holiday-themed episode, David Sidoni dives deep into the shocking stats on first-time homebuyers and delivers a hilarious and heartfelt pep talk, plus actionable strategies to make your homeownership dreams a reality – even if you think you've got no chance. From begging your family for help (with actual scripts!) to uncovering hidden down payment assistance programs,...
Nov 25, 2024•32 min•Ep 287•Transcript available on Metacast Think scoring a home in a pricey market like LA is impossible? Think again! David revisits a chat with Alvin and Ashley, a savvy couple who snagged a $700,000 dream home (with a DJ studio!) by doing things the right way. Their story is packed with "aha!" moments that'll have you rethinking what you actually need to buy your first place. Quote: "It's not black and white, so get a plan going ASAP... You can do this!" - Alvin, proving that with the right plan, anyone can achieve homeownership. High...
Nov 22, 2024•1 hr•Ep 286•Transcript available on Metacast A 29-year-old single woman in Austin, Texas, transforms her home-buying dream into reality in just 48 whirlwind days – proving you're probably ready to buy a home sooner than you think! Highlights: Negotiating with a realtor-seller? Katie shares her experience and how her unicorn realtor helped her navigate this unique situation. Inspection anxiety? David and Katie break down why you shouldn't freak out about your inspection report and how the right realtor can guide you. Closing costs got you c...
Nov 21, 2024•30 min•Ep 285•Transcript available on Metacast Frustrated with inaccurate listing data and endless spam when researching homes online? David reveals how first-time homebuyers can access the same MLS database that feeds Zillow and Redfin - but with better accuracy, privacy, and the ability to research homes without getting bombarded by sales calls. Quote: "These portals are genius... you keep everything in one place neat and organized, and all this comes with the one thing everybody needs when they're shopping for anything - you get the exper...
Nov 14, 2024•21 min•Ep 284•Transcript available on Metacast Worried the election results might derail your dreams of homeownership? David cuts through the political noise and fear-mongering headlines to reveal what Trump's policies could actually mean for first-time homebuyers, while sharing a surprising stat: 45% of recent buyers secured mortgage rates below 5% despite the high-rate environment. Quote: "Don't let the election with a hope for lower rates control your starting point to begin your planning. Don't wait for the solution to come to you and th...
Nov 12, 2024•23 min•Ep 283•Transcript available on Metacast Feeling lost in the maze of mortgages and mountains of paperwork? David chats with Stephanie and Kenton, two educators who transformed a real estate nightmare into a homeowner's dream (complete with an award-winning front yard!). Discover how they ditched the "door opener" realtor, embraced their inner spreadsheet ninja, and unlocked the secrets to scoring their perfect SoCal home. Quote: "It's not just about the price that you're putting on the offer, it's how you're structuring it." - Kenton H...
Nov 07, 2024•48 min•Ep 282•Transcript available on Metacast Feeling paralyzed by the chaos of the 2024 election and unsure whether now’s the right time to buy a home? You’re not alone. In this episode, David Sidoni breaks down why the current election panic might be making you second-guess your plans. Spoiler: the data suggests that waiting for a “better” time could actually cost you. Tune in as David shares historical insights and proven strategies to help first-time buyers navigate the storm—and why now might be your best chance to act. Quote: "The ele...
Nov 05, 2024•18 min•Ep 281•Transcript available on Metacast Got something holding you back from buying a home? David shares his tips for people stuck in the early planning stages, feeling like they have a huge obstacle in front of them before they can even start the process. Things like: High debt Low Credit Building Up Savings Learning How to Budget Referenced Episode: 274 - JT's Homebuying Journey (and Podcast Takeover) Important Resources: The Riches Man in Babylon (Book) - by George Samuel Clason How to Report Your Rent to Credit Bureaus (Nerd Wallet...
Oct 31, 2024•28 min•Ep 280•Transcript available on Metacast Dive into the great "new build vs. resale" home debate! David Sidoni breaks down the pros and cons of each, revealing the hidden costs, builder tricks, and how to avoid getting stuck with a "builder's agent" (spoiler alert: bring your own realtor!). It's a wild ride, but by the end, you'll be armed with the knowledge to make the best decision for YOUR homeownership dreams! 🏡 Quote: "It's not even apples to oranges. It's apples to grapefruit to kiwi... You could be comparing apples to roses, and...
Oct 29, 2024•31 min•Ep 279•Transcript available on Metacast David exposes a shocking new scam targeting first-time homebuyers, revealing how one company manipulated the legal system for its own gain. He's pulling back the curtain on the predatory practices of Landian and giving you the knowledge you need to protect yourself. Don't fall victim to the hype – get the facts and find out how you can still achieve your homeownership dreams. Quote: "This guy literally used the United States legal system to create chaos and confusion so that he could then swoop ...
Oct 25, 2024•19 min•Ep 278•Transcript available on Metacast Ever feel like your tax return is a ticking time bomb for your homeownership dreams? David Sidoni's got your back! In this episode, he throws a lifeline to self-employed and 1099 earners who might be unknowingly shrinking their mortgage potential with those tempting tax deductions. Get ready to discover the surprising strategy that could boost your buying power and unlock the home of your dreams (without the last-minute scramble!). Quote: "To say that the stress scramble reduces people to tears,...
Oct 22, 2024•23 min•Ep 277•Transcript available on Metacast Think you need to become a financial expert before buying your first home? Think again! David breaks down the story of "Bob," a meticulous researcher who almost fell into the "analysis paralysis" trap. Discover why over-researching can actually hinder your homeownership dreams and how finding the right "vet" (aka a unicorn Realtor) can make all the difference. Quote: "Stop trying to be a vet and instead find the best vet and let them give you the best action steps for you." Highlights: What if y...
Oct 18, 2024•31 min•Ep 276•Transcript available on Metacast David reveals the core values driving How to Buy a Home, Inc. and why he refuses to compromise them, even when faced with industry pressure. Discover how his unique Unicorn referral system is designed to empower first-time homebuyers and change the real estate game for good. Highlights: Is the Fed lying about the economy? David decodes the latest economic news and reveals why you shouldn't believe the hype. Discover the shocking truth about realtor referral programs and why David's Unicorn syste...
Oct 16, 2024•34 min•Ep 275•Transcript available on Metacast My podcast producer, JT, spills the tea on why he CAN'T (and SHOULDN'T!) buy a home right now. It's a brutally honest look at financial struggles, bad decisions, and the surprising reasons why sometimes waiting is the smartest move. Quote: "I'm the one that can tell you whatever it is, despite whatever your relationship with money is, whatever your hang-ups are, whatever anxieties you have, no matter what your history is with money... you can do this." - JT Highlights: Student Loan Struggles: JT...
Oct 14, 2024•40 min•Ep 274•Transcript available on Metacast Feeling priced out of the housing market? Single mom Anna was too, until she discovered the secrets to buying her first home FAST – even in THIS crazy economy! Learn how she ditched the rentals, scored a sweet condo with just 3% down, and found her own "unicorn realtor" to guide her every step of the way. This episode is your roadmap to affordable homeownership! 🏠✨ Quote: "Some girls get a haircut. I bought a home." - Anna Highlights: Could YOU go from breakup to buying a home in just TWO MONTH...
Oct 11, 2024•46 min•Ep 273•Transcript available on Metacast Feeling lost in the crazy housing market? This episode is your roadmap to navigating the How to Buy a Home podcast library, with tips on finding the perfect episodes to conquer your first-time homebuyer fears and finally escape the rent trap. 1. Getting Started & Basic Knowledge: Episode 201: Ten Step Guide for First Time Homebuyers Episodes 94- (ongoing): Real Estate Terms and Definitions (A-Z) Episode 225: Renting vs. Buying - The Big Picture 2. Financial Preparation & Affordability: E...
Oct 09, 2024•27 min•Ep 272•Transcript available on Metacast New construction homes: are they REALLY a good deal? David explores the pros and cons of buying new, reveals common builder tactics, and explains how to make smart decisions in today's market. Plus, learn why "median price" can be misleading and how to find a "unicorn realtor" to guide you. Quote: "If you walk in there and sign your name, you are locked in to their representative and that's not great for you." - David Sidoni Highlights: Is your city one of the top 10 most affordable for new cons...
Oct 07, 2024•18 min•Ep 271•Transcript available on Metacast Ever wondered how to buy a home AFTER bankruptcy? Brian and Tina reveal their incredible journey from a 580 credit score to owning a quirky dream home they affectionately call "Narnia." This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring proof that with the right team, strategic planning, and a sprinkle of patience, you too can unlock homeownership – even if your credit history isn't perfect. Quote: "Things happen for a reason. Whatever did happen was meant to be. It all came down to our...
Oct 02, 2024•33 min•Ep 270•Transcript available on Metacast The Fed's surprise move has triggered a housing market frenzy, but amidst the chaos lies a unique opportunity for savvy first-time buyers. David Sidoni reveals insider tips on navigating overpriced listings, outsmarting the competition (including those cash-rich boomers!), and securing your dream home BEFORE the spring 2025 rush. Don't miss this chance to turn market confusion into your homeownership advantage! Highlights: Can the Fed's rate cuts REALLY help you buy your first home? How can you ...
Sep 30, 2024•25 min•Ep 269•Transcript available on Metacast The Fed just dropped a bombshell rate cut, meaning the housing market is about to get WILD. David Sidoni breaks down what this means for YOU, and how to seize this golden opportunity to ditch your landlord and build real wealth. It's time to stop waiting and start building equity now! Quote: "You're not buying a home. You're creating a rent replacement strategy. You're avoiding the rent increases and reaping the rewards of a fixed payment, of growing appreciation, of a forced savings account." H...
Sep 27, 2024•29 min•Ep 268•Transcript available on Metacast David Sidoni delivers a fiery wake-up call to first-time homebuyers: the window of opportunity is open NOW, but it won't stay open forever. Ignore the fear-mongering and seize the moment before rising demand and low inventory send prices skyrocketing again. Quote: "This is a window. Your best opportunity is from right now until the spring thaw of 2025." Highlights: Interest rates are down, but for how long? Learn how the recent Fed rate cut impacts mortgage rates and why timing is crucial. Low i...
Sep 23, 2024•26 min•Ep 267•Transcript available on Metacast The Fed's surprise rate cut sent shockwaves through the market, but what does it really mean for first-time homebuyers? David breaks down the jargon, busts the myths, and reveals the real window of opportunity for anyone looking to buy a home in the next year or two. Spoiler alert: it's NOW! Quote: "The mortgage drop that everyone is expecting... they've already done it." Highlights: What the hell is the Fed, and why should you care about their rate cuts? Are you a winner or a loser in this new ...
Sep 20, 2024•30 min•Ep 266•Transcript available on Metacast A single mom's dream of homeownership becomes a reality—and an empowering lesson for her daughter—with the help of a "unicorn team" and unwavering determination. Quote: "The entire team just cared about the person, not about the sale." Highlights: Trusting Your Unicorn Team: What does it mean to have a “unicorn team” in your corner during the homebuying process? Liquid Cash, Quick Moves: Why is it crucial to have your finances in order before making an offer in today’s market? Kissing Frogs, Fin...
Sep 18, 2024•46 min•Ep 265•Transcript available on Metacast Zillow's got a shiny new CEO and a not-so-shiny new plan. David Sidoni breaks down their push to turn your home-buying dreams into quick corporate profits, exposing the pitfalls of their "super app" and urging you to find a real guide, not a glorified GPS. Quote: "Zillow may be a leader in the tech world... but their business model, they're actually behaving with an old-world industrial revolution factory mentality." Highlights: Zillow's new CEO wants to digitize the entire home-buying process -...
Sep 16, 2024•22 min•Ep 264•Transcript available on Metacast Faced with a challenging market and multiple rejected offers, Jonah's homebuying journey seemed impossible. Discover how he and his partner persevered, securing their dream home at the listing price with the guidance of their "unicorn" real estate team. Quote: "The deal that we were able to secure...there was no way it was going to work, and it did. And it worked out better than we could have imagined." Highlights: How can early engagement with a realtor and lender streamline the homebuying proc...
Sep 12, 2024•25 min•Ep 263•Transcript available on Metacast The housing affordability crisis is dominating the news, but what's the real story? This episode cuts through the political noise and offers a reality check for first-time homebuyers. Brace yourselves for a data-driven dose of truth and a clear path forward, even in this challenging market. Quote: “Waiting for homes to be affordable before you start getting your plan together will actually make you poorer.” Highlights: Is the housing affordability crisis real, or just political hype? How can fir...
Sep 10, 2024•38 min•Ep 262•Transcript available on Metacast David Sidoni drops truth bombs on the biggest myth in the first-time homebuyer world: shopping for the lowest interest rate is NOT the key to saving money. Discover the real way to score the best deal on your mortgage and why planning early with the right team is your secret weapon. Quote : "Stop shopping interest rates and start shopping loan service. Period. The end. Curtain." Highlights : Is your interest rate obsession actually costing you money? Why is shopping for a mortgage NOT like buyin...
Sep 05, 2024•29 min•Ep 261•Transcript available on Metacast Patrick and Alex, fresh off closing on their new home, share the wild ride of switching lenders, compromising on their wish list, and ultimately landing a dream home twice the size of their rental for only $300 more per month and a SERIOUSLY low interest rates for the 2024 housing market. Their secret? A unicorn realtor, a one-of-a-kind listing, and a whole lot of patience. Quote: "We compromised and then gained so much more from compromising." - Patrick Highlights: How did Patrick and Alex end ...
Sep 03, 2024•45 min•Ep 260•Transcript available on Metacast 
