The Hidden Truth About Buying Your First Home in 2026 🏠 | Expert Tips

Описание: Are you ready to stop renting and start building your legacy? 🚪

In this episode of The Leading Question Show, host Remitha Mathew sits down with Rachel Rowland, a former teacher turned "real estate matchmaker", to demystify the home-buying process.

We move beyond the "20% down payment" myth and dive into the real numbers—including the crucial 1-3% rule for hidden closing costs . Rachel also shares the inspiring history of how women have gone from being denied credit scores 51 years ago to dominating the single-buyer market today.

What you'll learn in this episode:
Why homeownership is your biggest wealth-building asset.
The truth about 3% down payments and first-time buyer grants.
Critical safety red flags: Foundation issues and water damage .
How to maximize your resale value before you even buy.

00:00 Introduction & Welcome
00:41 Core Philosophy: Community & Connection
02:08 Supporting Women in Business: East Side EntrepreneuHERS
03:12 Why Homeownership is Your Best Wealth Builder
04:18 Creative Community Events: "Mortgage and Mutts"
05:35 2026 Market Trends: Who is Buying Now?
06:36 The 20% Down Payment Myth Debunked
07:45 How to Set a Realistic Monthly Payment Goal
08:18 The Stepping Stone Strategy: Starting with a Condo
11:46 The "1-3% Rule" for Hidden Closing Costs
14:06 Resale Value: Thinking Like a Seller Before You Buy
15:35 Prepping for Sale: Staging and Curb Appeal
16:55 Critical Red Flags: Foundation and Water Damage
21:16 Managing the Stress: Vetting Lenders & Inspectors
24:43 The 51-Year Evolution of Women's Credit Scores
26:00 Final Thoughts: Empowering Solo Home Buyers