1) Get on the Same Page Before You Get Pre-Approved
A home budget works best when it fits both of your lives.
Before you even talk to a lender, have the “real life” conversation:
What monthly payment feels comfortable?
How much do you want to keep for travel, kids, savings, or fun?
Are you combining finances fully… or partially?
2) Pre-Approval: Do It Together (Even If You’re Renting Separately)
Confidence starts with a clear budget, together.
If you’re buying together, get pre-approved as a team so you know:
what you qualify for together
what each person contributes
what your realistic price range is
This avoids touring homes that are emotionally perfect… but financially painful.
3) Build Your “Must-Have” List as a Couple (Not Two Solo Lists)
The best first home supports your next chapter, not just your Pinterest board.
A common first-home mistake is trying to find a home that checks every box for both people.
Instead, decide what matters most for your marriage and lifestyle, like:
commute balance
bedroom count for future plans
space for working from home
storage, parking, yard, pets
proximity to family / schools
4) Plan for the Costs After Possession Day
The smoothest move-in is the one you plan for early.
Buying your first marital home isn’t just “getting the keys.” It’s building a home life.
Beyond the down payment, plan for:
legal + closing costs
moving expenses (sometimes two moves into one!)
furniture and basics (window coverings, lawn tools, etc.)
utilities, property taxes, insurance
the first year of “home surprises”
5) Choose a Home That Reduces Stress, Not Just Looks Great Online
Your first home together should feel like a good decision six months later, not just on offer night.
That means watching for:
hidden maintenance issues
awkward layouts that don’t “live well”
long-term resale factors
renovation costs that add pressure early on
A good home inspection and solid guidance can save a couple from buying a “pretty problem.”
