How to Buy a Home: The #1 First Time Home Buyer Podcast

John and Chrissy share how they turned early inheritance and smart planning into a successful first home purchase in pricey California.After renting for over 18 years, John and Chrissy navigated skyrocketing rents, family support, and strategic planning to buy a $700,000 home in San Luis Obispo. With only $5,000 in savings, an unexpected offer of early inheritance shifted their mindset from surviving rent hikes to buying a home. They used the How to Buy a Home system and their Unicorn team to align monthly affordability with realistic home options. From dealing with open house stress to choosing a planned urban development (PUD) for detached living without breaking the bank, their journey reflects persistence, planning, and prioritizing what matters most.“You have no idea what you’re capable of until you put it in front of you and crunch the numbers.” — ChrissyHighlights: How do you go from $5,000 in savings to owning a $700,000 home with confidence?What options exist for buyers who want a detached home but can’t afford traditional single-family prices?How can early inheritance or family gifts be used responsibly without guilt or confusion?What happens when you stop asking, “Can I afford this?” and start asking, “How do I make this work?”Check out our EPISODE GUIDE for more information and interviews!Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Most first-time homebuyers don’t need a miracle — they just need a system. In Part 2 of this playbook series, David Sidoni gives you the exact monthly roadmap to go from renting to owning in one year or less.The housing industry ignores renters during the most important phase — the planning stage. But that’s exactly where first-time buyers need the most support.In this episode, David Sidoni delivers the second half of the “Last Lease Ever” Playbook, a proven system designed to help renters become homeowners with just one focused action step per month. You’ll learn how to stop guessing, start tracking, and build your own custom plan based on the “Big Three”: credit, debt, and savings.Forget waiting until you’re “ready.” This episode shows you how to take control now — even if you’re still a year or two away from buying. You’ll also learn why finding your unicorn realtor and lender before you’re ready makes all the difference.“Most renters can buy in 12 months or less — if they stop waiting for someone to hand them a plan.”HIGHLIGHTSWhat most renters get wrong about “readiness”Why one action step a month is more powerful than you thinkHow the system works even if you’re 6–24 months away from buyingThe problem with waiting to talk to a realtor or lenderWhat makes a real estate “unicorn” — and how to find yoursWhy the industry ignores planning-phase buyers (and what to do about it)How to build a customized, trackable roadmap — no gimmicks, just real stepsREFERENCED EPISODES403 – Credit404 – Debt405 – Savingtask437 – What is a Unicorn Realtor?381 – Saving While in Debt: How Much Do First-Time Buyers Really Need in 2025?355 – Real Answers Pt 4: Should I Rent or Buy in 2025?Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

This episode introduces the Rent Replacement Strategy as a powerful mindset shift for first-time homebuyers. In part one of the First-Time Homebuyer Playbook, David Sidoni lays out the essential mindset every buyer needs before they ever look at a home: the rent replacement strategy. Rather than comparing rent and mortgage as separate costs, David explains how your rent can—and should—be replaced with a fixed, wealth-building home payment. The episode challenges the fear of becoming “house poor” by breaking down the math of equity growth, tax benefits, and long-term stability. This is the playbook to avoid financial regret and take real control of your housing future. “Renting is about survival. Owning a home is about growth.” Highlights What is the rent replacement strategy, and how can it help you afford a home?Why do so many renters regret not buying sooner?How does understanding full financial math debunk the fear of being house poor?What low down payment options and strategies can first-time buyers use today? Referenced Episodes355 – Real Answers Pt 4: Should I Rent or Buy in 2025?415 – Financially Prepare to Buy Your First Home 2.0 - Pt. 1423 – Using Your 401(k) - Financially Prepare to Buy Your First Home - Pt. 6435 – 2026 Ultimate First Time Homebuyer Guide: What’s Next for Housing? (Forecast, Predictions & Tips to Prepare)198 – PMI Is a Privilege216 – PMI Is Still A Privilege And Still Not The DevilConnect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Abigail and her husband thought they needed $50,000 before they could even think about buying a home. But after reaching out for budgeting advice, they learned they were already closer to ownership than they imagined. With guidance from a Unicorn team, family gift funds, and smart loan planning, they closed on a $400,000 home in under 90 days. This episode details how early conversations and the right financial education can replace fear with facts — and get buyers into homes faster than they expect. “We did have to break our lease in order to buy the house… it worked out so well.” - AbigailHighlights What financial assumptions kept Abigail and her husband from realizing they were ready to buy?Why does using only one spouse’s income sometimes secure a better loan rate?How can breaking a lease early actually speed up your homeownership timeline?What loan and gift strategies helped Abigail cover her down payment without draining savings?Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

You’ve made it through the offers and inspections—now don’t let closing day blindside you. Learn what to expect (and what can still go wrong) in the final stretch of buying your first home. If you’re like most first-time buyers, you think you’re in the clear once your offer is accepted. But the final 4 to 6 weeks—known as “closing”—are packed with surprises that can derail your timeline, your budget, and your sanity. In this myth-busting episode, David Sidoni explains why closing is rarely “set in stone,” and walks you through everything from shifting dates to last-minute costs. Designed specifically for buyers who crave control and clarity, this episode helps you anticipate the unpredictable, manage expectations, and stay grounded when it matters most.“You can do everything right, but you are just one of dozens of different factors that determine if you close on time.”HighlightsWhy closing is a process, not a single day—and why that mattersHow even a signed contract doesn’t guarantee your moving dateWhat “fluid” means in real estate and how it plays out during closingWhy your lender, escrow agent, and even the seller can throw wrenches into your plansHow to protect your peace of mind when the timeline gets shakyPractical advice for spreadsheet lovers and Type-A buyers who crave controlThe exact mindset that turns closing chaos into a manageable milestoneConnect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

The origin, mission, and standards behind the “Unicorn Realtor” and how they transform outcomes for first-time homebuyers.Unicorn Realtors aren’t mythical—they’re real estate pros who specialize in first-time buyers and uphold elite, client-first standards. In this origin story, David Sidoni shares how the unicorn concept emerged as a radical answer to an industry that sidelines first-time buyers in favor of profits. He explains the strict vetting process that separates unicorns from the rest and why their mastery, ethics, education, and advocacy offer real advantages to new buyers. This isn’t just about realtors—it’s a buyer revolution built to protect and empower.“Unicorns aren’t magic. They’re just incredibly rare—and built to put first-time buyers first.” - David SidoniHighlights:What really sets a Unicorn Realtor apart from the rest of the industry?Why are first-time homebuyers ignored—and how did this model flip the script?What strict standards must Unicorn Realtors meet to stay on the list?How does hiring a Unicorn give you power, options, and protection?Referenced Episodes:229 – What Is A Unicorn Real Estate Team?389 – The Playbook VOL. 2: Your Last Lease Ever400 – Introduction: How to Buy a Home Starter Series (START HERE)436 - 20 Questions First Time Home Buyers MUST ASK Finding a RealtorConnect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

This episode gives you 20 must-ask questions to confidently hire the right realtor and avoid costly mistakes.Most first-time buyers don’t know the real estate industry is built to push them toward the wrong agents. In this episode, David reveals why so many buyers end up with inexperienced or undertrained realtors — and how to avoid becoming one of them. You’ll learn the exact 20 questions to ask in your interviews to ensure you’re hiring a true first-time buyer specialist, not someone just “trying out the job.” This is the tactical guide every first-time buyer needs before taking a single step toward home shopping.“An inexperienced agent can quietly give away your money — and you won’t even know it happened.” - David SidoniHighlightsWhat critical red flags should you look for when interviewing a realtor?Why do most buyers end up with someone who isn’t qualified to help them?How can asking the right questions protect you from losing money during your purchase?When should you start looking for a realtor — and how early is too early?Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Think the market needs to crash before you can buy? Think again. Discover why a flat market gives first-time buyers the edge in 2026.Most people are sitting around waiting for 3% interest rates or a price crash to make their move. But in this episode, David Sidoni explains why those waiting are missing the point — and the opportunity. 2026 may not bring exciting headlines, but that’s exactly what makes it a powerful year for prepared first-time buyers.David walks listeners through seven buyer advantages coming in 2026, from expanded FHA loan limits to increased inventory from sellers breaking out of their “golden handcuffs.” He also highlights the regrets of past buyers — like overspending on fixer-uppers or getting stuck with mortgage payments that blew their budget — and shows how a smart plan can help you avoid them all.You’ll hear why stable prices and interest rates, while boring to most, can actually help first-time buyers strategize, save, and succeed. If you’re ready to stop waiting and start planning, this episode lays out exactly how to win in a flat market.“Flat is your friend. It gives you time to plan, save, and strategize without surprises.” - David SidoniHighlights7 common regrets first-time buyers face — and how to avoid themWhat a “flat” market really means, and why it’s an advantageNew FHA loan limits for 2026 — including a $1.87M cap in Alaska and HawaiiWhy seller and builder incentives could disappear fast — and how to act before they doHow a unicorn team can help you sidestep costly inspection or mortgage mistakesA mindset shift: stop waiting for flashy deals and start creating your own successConnect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Think you understand the homebuying process? Here’s the full truth, from start to finish — and why skipping the first ten steps can wreck everything. Most "how to buy a home" guides are missing the most important details. In this episode, David Sidoni lays out the entirehomebuying journey — from day one to closing — with over 50 real steps, and exposes why popular webinars and checklists often lead buyers astray. He explains why first-time buyers fail when they jump into house hunting or loans before setting up the fundamentals. If you’re serious about avoiding expensive mistakes, this is the reality check you need. “The biggest mistake I see hopeful first-time homebuyers do is focusing on the middle steps instead of the beginning.”— David Sidoni HIGHLIGHTSWhy free online webinars and workshops are often just sales funnels in disguiseA detailed breakdown of all 50+ steps to buy a home — and why most buyers only focus on 10Common myths that derail first-time buyers before they even meet a lender or agentHow early budgeting, team selection, and mindset shifts can prevent chaos laterWhy the Ten Step Starter Kit (Episodes 400–409) remains the foundation for successConnect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Elizabeth turned fear into confidence, buying her first home at 26 in Ohio with smart strategy, a DIY mindset, and just 5% down. When Elizabeth first reached out, she described the homebuying process as "daunting" and didn’t want to get screwed. But just a few months later, she and her husband closed on a $164K home in Ohio — fully prepped, budget-savvy, and calm under pressure. In this episode, she walks through every step: from tackling a floor renovation herself to choosing an ARM loan and why she only put 5% down, even with 20% in savings. If you’re a first-time buyer wondering whether you’re ready — Elizabeth’s story proves you probably are. "You're already there. If you're listening to this podcast, you're already on your way to feeling better about all the decisions you have to make." — Elizabeth, first-time homebuyer in Ohio HighlightsHow Elizabeth and her husband bought below budget and under market valueWhy they opted for a 5% down payment instead of 20%, even with the cash on handThe real math on PMI, ARM loans, and what their monthly payments turned out to beRenovating their floors DIY-style and planning projects before moving inWhat she learned about choosing layout, neighborhood, and long-term flexibility Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Feeling overwhelmed by the homebuying process? This episode gives first-time buyers a clear starting point by showing how to use the How to Buy a Home Episode Guide to build confidence, clarity, and a personal education plan.How to Buy a Home 2025 Episode GuideThis end-of-year road trip episode is designed for renters who don’t know where to begin — or who feel stuck trying to make sense of conflicting advice online. Instead of pushing tactics or timing, this episode explains how first-time buyers can use education as their advantage.The focus is on building confidence through clarity, understanding what information actually matters, and learning how other real buyers have successfully navigated today’s housing market using proven strategies.“You can’t control the housing market, but you can 100% control how much information you take in and how confident you become.” - SidoniPopular Podcast TopicsWhere to start as a first-time homebuyerFinding your place in the process and avoiding overwhelm by using the Episode Guide.Rent vs. buy: does buying actually make sense right now?Comparing rent replacement math, lifestyle impact, and long-term strategy.How much money do you really need to buy a home?Why online calculators are misleading and how real buyers close with far less cash.Low down payment options that actually work3%, 3.5% FHA, 5% conventional, VA loans, and down payment assistance programs.Buying a home with student loans or other debtHow buyers qualify while carrying student loans, car payments, or credit cards.Credit scores and common credit mythsWhat lenders really care about, credit pull myths, and why perfection isn’t required.Affordability fears and avoiding being house poorMonthly payment comfort, budgeting confidence, and long-term financial stability.Timing your move, not the marketWinter buying advantages, planning around leases, and when breaking a lease can make sense.Market timing vs. having a smart planWhy waiting for a crash backfires and how flat markets still create opportunity.Real renter stories that prove this is possibleLow savings buyers, first-generation homeowners, VA buyers, and high-cost-area success stories.Plus tons of interviews with real renters who have broken the cycle and bought their first home.Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeCheck out First Time Home Buyer Stories for full podcast interviews on YouTubeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Millicent and Milo thought buying a home would take months—until they listened to Millicent’s mom. With a lease ending and low expectations, they closed on their first home in under 30 days thanks to prep work, a unicorn team, and the confidence to act fast. What started as a casual conversation turned into a life-changing decision for Millicent and Milo. Encouraged by Millicent’s mom—an avid How to Buy a Home listener—they reached out with just weeks left on their lease. The result: they closed on a new construction home in under 30 days. In this interview, they walk through the entire process: from discovering they were more prepared than they thought, to negotiating with builders who claimed there were “no incentives,” to how their unicorn team saved them thousands in closing costs and helped them avoid costly pitfalls. They also share practical tips for other first-time buyers—like how to handle earnest money, what radon testing revealed in a brand-new home, and why measuring your laundry space before buying appliances is non-negotiable. This episode is a real-world example of what’s possible when preparation meets the right support system—and yes, it all started with listening to mom.  “After talking to the unicorn lender, we realized—we were actually ready. That gave us the confidence to go for it.” – Millicent   HIGHLIGHTS Why you should never sign in at a builder’s office without representationHow they got $10K in seller credits and avoided paying full closing costsWorking with the builder’s lender vs. the unicorn lenderWhat radon testing revealed (and why you should always do it)How they managed the buying and moving process in under 30 daysThe importance of not spending any money before closing—even on appliancesWhat they’re doing now to prepare for their next home (and investment property)How having a unicorn team made all the difference—even with a builder purchaseConnect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

She bought a home at 26 — with acreage, animals, and no family money. Cynthia’s story shows exactly what’s possible when you plan ahead, find the right team, and stick with it, even through setbacks. Cynthia started listening to the How to Buy a Home podcast in 2022. Three years later, she closed on her dream property — a $250K home with two and a half acres in Florida. She did it with zero financial help from family, months of prep with a unicorn team, and a plan that accounted for credit, savings, zoning laws, and inspection surprises. She now pays less than renting and boarding a horse, and she owns the whole thing outright. No partner, no co-signer — just her, 15 chickens, 4 ducks, 1 horse, and 1 very good dog. "I remember when you were 12 years old and this was your dream… You’re living the dream you’ve had since you were 12." — Cynthia’s horse trainer HighlightsHow planning two years in advance helped Cynthia buy her dream home at 26What made her property search so unique — and how zoning, acreage, and location all matteredWhy the right inspections (and a lost septic tank!) made all the differenceWhat made her monthly payment less than renting and boarding her horseWhy she says the HBH podcast gave her the tools to make it all happen Referenced Episodes: 400 - Introduction: How to Buy a Home Starter Series (START HERE)388 - The Playbook VOL. 1: The Rent Replacement Strategy389 - The Playbook VOL. 2: Your Last Lease Ever363 - Buying a Home Right Out of College without 2 Years on the Job - INTERVIEW418 - 2026 Housing Market Predictions (and What 2025 Taught First Time Home Buyers)Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Check out Saly's full first time home buyer journey on HowtoBuyaHome.com. Saly became a first time home buyer in 2022, an unprecedented and crazy time in the housing market. Now, 3 years after Saly's premier on the How to Buy a Home podcast, she's returned to shed light on the big question: Was buying her first house worth it??Hear how homeownership changed her life — and what she wishes she knew going in.Three years ago, Saly took a leap — breaking her lease and pulling from her 401k to buy a home in Florida with just 3% down. In this candid conversation, she reunites with David Sidoni to reflect on the real impact of that decision. Did the market timing work out? Was the stress worth it? Did she ever regret it? Spoiler: not for a second. Saly shares how homeownership brought more than equity. It gave her freedom, pride, and stability she’d never felt before. From her spreadsheet budget to her Christmas Polaroid wall, every part of her life grew. And now? She’s planning to rent this home and buy another in 10–15 years. Tune in for real numbers, real lessons, and a powerful reminder of why first-time buyers shouldn’t wait for “perfect timing.” “Buying this house unlocked everything. I feel like we’re capable of anything now.” – Saly  Highlights Why she broke her lease to buy — and doesn’t regret itUsed a 3% down payment (yes, with 401k funds)Insurance shakeups and HOA surprises she didn’t expectBuilt long-term equity, confidence, and new family traditionsHer budgeting mindset now vs. then — and why she tracks everythingFuture goals: turn this home into a rental and buy againCheck out the whole interview on YouTubeConnect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

First-time buyer Silvia shares how she purchased a $530,000 home as a single mom using grants, grit, and guidance from a unicorn realtor — all while juggling debt and staying under budget.Silvia is a single mom who just bought a $530,000 home with only $17,000 out of pocket — no co-buyer, no help. In this episode, she shares how she tackled debt, saved strategically, and found first-time buyer grants most people don’t even know exist. You’ll hear how she won a bidding war, handled a tough inspection, and still came out ahead with $26K in seller-paid repairs. Her story proves you don’t need perfect timing — you need a plan, a team, and the right information.“I honestly didn’t think it was going to be this quick, this smooth.” - SilviaHighlightsHow do first-time homebuyer grants work — and can you stack them?Can you really buy in a high-cost area without 20% down?What’s the debt snowball method — and how did Silvia use it to get ready?What negotiation tricks helped her win a bidding war?How did she get $26K in seller-paid repairs after inspection?Why does trusting your unicorn agent matter more than ever?Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Eve didn’t let fear, deadlines, or market pressure stop her. With determination and $20,000 saved, she found the right team, the right timing, and the right program to make homeownership happen — even when it felt just out of reach.When Eve’s landlord gave her 30 days to move out, she didn’t panic — she pivoted. At 36 years old, after years of renting, Eve took a chance on herself and on a dream that had always seemed out of reach. She had saved $20,000 and started exploring what felt like a longshot: becoming a homeowner.What followed was a powerful example of what optimism, patience, and a little education can do. With guidance from David’s team and the right down payment assistance (DPA) program, Eve bought her first home — even when the numbers and timing barely worked.Her story is an emotional reminder that first-time buyers aren’t just fighting math — they’re also managing hope, fear, and the courage to move forward. If you’ve ever doubted your chances, this episode is your proof that it’s possible.“I was terrified. But I told myself: you’ve saved this money. You’ve worked this hard. You can figure out the rest.” - EveHighlights:Eve had saved $20,000 by age 36, despite past credit challengesHer landlord’s sudden notice pushed her to act faster than plannedShe qualified for a county-level DPA program with tight income capsThe program opened at just the right time — and nearly closed before she could applyShe found a home priced at $418K and used her savings alongside assistanceDespite self-doubt, she pushed through and now sleeps better than ever — in her own homeThis episode is about mindset as much as money: what happens when belief meets strategyReferenced Episodes:Episode 400: How to Buy a Home – Step 1: Decide (The Mindset Shift)Episode 388: The Playbook VOL. 1 – The Rent Replacement StrategyEpisode 389: The Playbook VOL. 2 – Your Last Lease EverEpisode 363: [Title not found; can search if needed]Episode 418: 2026 Housing Market Predictions (and What 2025 Taught First Time Home Buyers)Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Think you need $50K to buy a home? Think again — this episode shows the truth they’re not telling you.First-time homebuyer numbers just hit record lows, but the real cause isn’t high prices — it’s bad guidance. In this episode, David reveals the proven, low-down-payment strategy that’s been hidden from buyers for years. It’s not new, and it’s not complicated — it’s just not profitable for the industry. You’ll learn how to build a custom plan based on your budget, not their sales pitch.“Millions of perfectly capable first-time homebuyers are left in the dark. That sucks.” HIGHLIGHTSThe #1 reason first-time buyer rates are collapsing in 2025How the system profits from keeping you in the darkRent replacement math: your secret weapon to plan smartWhy “affordability” myths stop people who could be buying right nowREFERENCED EPISODES400: Introduction: How to Buy a Home Starter Series (START HERE)180: Online Mortgage Calculators Are GARBAGE – Here’s Why300: Final Episode Transcript370: The Truth About Tax Breaks for First-Time Buyers – INTERVIEW355: Real Answers Pt 4: Should I Rent or Buy in 2025?Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Shanta’s story shows how setting a goal, staying focused, and using the right support team can turn dreams into keys. Shanta used a USDA loan to buy her first home with zero down — and her story proves this option is more available than most buyers think.Watch the Interview on YouTubeIn this episode, David interviews Shanta, a single mom and veteran who overcame delays and life stress to finally buy her first home. After discovering the podcast by accident, she educated herself, set a firm deadline, and followed through with discipline. After multiple life delays, she set a firm goal, educated herself, and through working with a qualified team, found a way she could comfortable achieve for zero-down financing. Shanta’s story shows how first-time buyers can take advantage of overlooked loan options and make smart moves outside the typical real estate path. If you’ve been stuck renting and think buying a home is out of reach, this episode will show you a real path forward.“Stay focused. Stay focused. Stay focused.” - ShantaHighlightsHow USDA loans work for first-time buyers with little to no savingsWhy moving to a rural area opened new homebuying opportunitiesThe importance of working with a knowledgeable Realtor and lenderHow Shanta stayed on track despite parenting, work, and setbacksZero-down doesn’t mean zero options — it means new possibilitiesConnect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Two 25-year-olds became homeowners in 2025 with just $8,000—and almost no money at closing.Watch the Interview on YouTubeChloe and Eduardo beat the odds and bought their first home in one of the toughest markets ever—with less than most people spend on a used car. This episode breaks down how they did it, featuring both their story and insights from their unicorn realtor and lender. You’ll learn how assertiveness, education, and a trusted team made the impossible not only possible, but surprisingly affordable. Their journey is proof that the right guidance can help you break through fear and take action, even with limited resources.“Without Max and Kelly, I don’t think we would have even known this was possible.” —ChloeHighlights:Chloe and Eduardo bought at 25 while the national average age is 40Only $8,000 in savings to startPaid just $120.95 total at closing thanks to seller credits and down payment assistanceRefunded most of their $3,000 earnest money depositTime from beginning the process to closing: ~3 monthsRealtor Max used his own recent first-time buyer experience to guide themLender Kelly secured down payment assistance that made the deal possibleTheir top tip: be assertive and have a responsive, knowledgeable teamEmotional takeaway: belief, education, and support can outmatch moneyConnect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Can your 401(k) help you stop renting and buy a home sooner?This episode unpacks a controversial—but often misunderstood—strategy for first-time homebuyers: using your 401(k) to fund your down payment. David Sidoni breaks down how this can be done safely, why it may actually support your retirement, and how smart planning can help you enter the market sooner without sacrificing your future.“When done right, this move strengthens both your now and your future.”Highlights:Why using your 401(k) isn’t necessarily “robbing your future”How 401(k) loans work—and why lenders often don’t count them against youThe rent replacement strategy and how it supports long-term wealthWhy entering the market sooner could be smarter than waitingReferenced Episodes400 - Introduction: How to Buy a Home Starter Series (START HERE)388 - The Playbook VOL. 1 - The Rent Replacement Strategy355 - Real Answers Pt 4: Should I Rent or Buy in 2025?198 - PMI Is a Privilege216 - PMI Is Still A Privilege And Still Not The Devil401K Interviews369 - INTERVIEW: From Fear to First Home: How Regina Bought Solo in Her 40s273 - Buying a Home in 11 Days! Single Mom Becomes Atlanta Homeowner (Interview)163 - Let’s Hear From Another REAL Home Buyer: Amber’s Story161 - Achieving The American Dream: An Interview With Sally135 - Interview With First Timers In One Of The Most Expensive Areas - Buying Without 20% Down Payment113 - Interview With A Single, Female First-Time Home Buyer In 2022Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!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. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!