Buying · First-time buyers

Your first home, without the guesswork.

Plain-English answers to every question, introductions to trusted lenders, and a steady hand from pre-approval to keys — that’s how first homes should be bought.

How we help

Every question answered. Every step explained.

Cozy first apartment living room

No question is too basic

Earnest money, inspections, closing costs — we explain everything in plain English before you need to decide anything.

Reviewing loan documents together

Financing, demystified

Down payments are often smaller than you think. We connect you with our lender partner Ashland Alitz at Fairway Home Mortgage (NMLS #1584948) to find the loan and programs that fit.

First home with a green lawn

Honest showings

We point out the water stain, the aging furnace, and the great bones — you’ll never buy blind with us in the room.

The process

How it works.

Talk first

A no-pressure call about your budget, timeline, and what you actually need in a first home.

Get pre-approved

We introduce you to trusted lenders — including Ashland Alitz at Fairway Home Mortgage — so you shop with real numbers.

Tour with honest eyes

We show you homes in your range and tell you the truth about each one.

Offer, inspect, close

We handle strategy, negotiation, and the paperwork maze — you handle picking the paint.

First-time buyers listings

Curated listings appear here

In the meantime, reach out and we'll send you listings that fit.

Questions

First-time buyer FAQ.

How much do I need for a down payment in Minnesota?

Often less than you think — many first-time buyers put down well under 20%, and Minnesota offers down-payment assistance programs. We’ll connect you with a trusted lender to see exactly what you qualify for.

What credit score do I need to buy a home?

Many loan programs work with scores in the low-to-mid 600s, and some go lower. A lender conversation costs nothing and tells you exactly where you stand.

How long does buying a first home take?

Typically 30–45 days from accepted offer to keys. The search itself varies — some buyers find their home in two weekends, some take a season.

What does a buyer’s agent cost me?

Let’s talk about it directly — commission structures changed industry-wide in recent years, and we’ll walk you through exactly how representation works and what it costs before you commit to anything.

Ready for keys of your own?

Start with a conversation — no pressure, no jargon, no obligation.