Say goodbye to mortgage mystery and "I wish I'd known" mistakes. In this episode, I'm joined by Theoni Rappo (aka Not Your Daddy's Lender) to simplify what first-time buyers actually need to know: we're talking realistic down payments, when (and how) to tap a 401(k), what underwriters look for on bank statements, how gift funds really work, job-change do's and don'ts, and the fastest ways to build credit if you didn't start early. You'll leave with a step-by-step pre-approval plan, the exact prompt to estimate your debt to income ratio, and a simple money setup that makes saving for your first home almost automatic. 

In This Episode, You Will Learn

• Realistic first-time down payments (3%–3.5%, NOT 20%.)

• When using a 401(k) loan makes sense.

• What underwriters scrutinize on bank statements and deposits.

• How to receive gift funds without documentation headaches.

• Job-change rules: offer letters, first pay stub requirements.

• How student loans count toward your monthly debt.

• Pre-approval basics: what expires after 90 days.

• Options to quality if you're self-employed.

Resources + Links

Get Your FREE Homebuying Masterclass HERE

Follow 

Instagram: @iamstacierihl

Website: stacierihl.com

Theoni: @theonithelender

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