How to Buy a House: Where Do You Start?

{original post 3/21/2024}

The Happy House Hacking Podcast: How to Buy a House Part 1: Where Do You Start?

Link to full podcast episode here:



How to Buy a House Part 1: Where do you start? 

Looking for a new place in California but worried about the high prices, overdemand, and unreliable realtors? Then, The Happy House Hacking Podcast is just what you’re looking for!

We are Owen and Camille Schwaegerle, and we aren’t just your average couple; we are realtors, investors, and happy house hackers, and in our life’s journey, we have discovered that becoming a house owner can be one of life’s most difficult challenges.

That’s why we are committed to helping people who have been in a situation like ours, where affordability, comfort, and compromise all merge together; our goal is to assist young people in California in navigating the home buying process and becoming happy homeowners. 

Starting to Invest in Real Estate

Looking for houses and entering the real estate world can be pretty complicated without the necessary experience, but we want to give you our top golden rules to make it an easier journey: 

1. Find a real estate agent who cares
2. Find the best lender for your needs

Happy House Hacking Tip 1: Find the Right Agent

Locate a leading agent in your area that’s a good fit for your needs. It’s valid to do some research and even inquire about their work ethic and reputation. 

Don't forget to check out reviews for realtors! Just like you Google reviews for a restaurant or service, realtors are no different! 

Ask your closest friends who their realtor is and what they did to make their experience a memorable one.

Education and Empowerment

Find a realtor who is not only willing to work with you but also goes the extra mile to educate you so that you can make the most informed decisions based on your unique needs.

Trust is Key 

It's crucial to find someone you can trust implicitly, as this relationship will significantly impact your home-buying experience.

Remember, who you choose to work with matters just as much as what property you decide to invest in. 

Happy House Hacking Tip 2: Find the Best Lender

Selecting the right lender is a pivotal step towards homeownership. With numerous programs in America designed to incentivize home ownership, how can you be sure you're fully leveraging these opportunities?

The best lender for you will not only understand your needs but also keep you grounded. They'll be aware of your purchasing capabilities and guide you accordingly.

The ideal lender is someone you can trust, someone who takes an interest in you as a person, not just another client. 

They should be a partner in your journey toward homeownership, helping you navigate your options and make your experience a memorable one.

When we first bought our house, we didn't even know we qualified for a loan. Imagine our surprise when we discovered this fact! 

So, don't underestimate your possibilities; ask around, and we assure you you will find an option suitable for you!

Extra Happy House Hacking Tips

Once you have a good lender and an amazing agent, these are some extra steps you can consider to make your home ownership process a memorable one. 

Think Outside the Box

Don't limit your options by comparing them with what your family had when they bought their first house or what your friends currently own. 

Remember, times have changed. Avoid setting unrealistic expectations that could potentially lead to disappointment or financial stress.

You’re Still on the Journey to Your Forever Home

Keep in mind that the house you're buying now doesn't have to be your forever home. 

Think of it as a stepping stone towards financial freedom and a prosperous future. In most cases, you only need to live there for a year! 

This will allow you to make strategic decisions based on investment potential rather than emotional attachment.

Multiple Listing Services (MLS)

The MLS is a comprehensive database where 95% of homes sold across America are listed. 

It provides better data, which can help you and your realtor make informed decisions. Make sure to mention this resource to your real estate agent!

Technology is Your Best Friend

Technology can greatly simplify the home-buying process. 

Seek out a tech-savvy real estate team that offers convenient online services, such as booking appointments to view houses. 

This will save you time and ensure you have access to the best available options.

Keep Listening to the Happy House Hacking Podcast

House hacking isn't just about owning a home. It's about building a life of financial freedom and independence.

Make sure to subscribe to the Happy House Hacking Podcast for more tips, tricks, and insider secrets in the world of real estate.