A 12-Month Guide to Buying Your First Home
If you’re thinking about buying your first home in Kirkland, you’re already taking a major step toward long-term financial stability—and a lifestyle you’ll love. Whether you're looking in Kirkland, Bellevue, Redmond, Woodinville, Seattle, or anywhere across the Greater Puget Sound, having a clear plan makes the entire homebuying process feel less overwhelming and far more achievable.
This is the 12-month timeline I recommend to first-time buyers who want to feel fully prepared, confident, and aligned with their goals before making one of the biggest financial decisions of their life.
Month 12: Get Clear on Your Why
Are you looking for stability, more space, better schools, or the long-term financial benefits of homeownership? Your “why” sets the tone for every decision that follows—especially in competitive markets like Kirkland and Seattle.
Month 11: Review Your Finances
This month is simply about organization. Gather:
tax returns
pay stubs
bank statements
credit summaries
It gives you a realistic picture of what’s possible.
Month 10: Check Your Credit & Strengthen Your Score
Even small improvements to your credit score can affect your loan options and interest rates. This matters in all markets—especially higher-priced areas like the Eastside.
Month 9: Begin Setting Aside Savings
You don’t need 20% down. Many buyers in Kirkland and Seattle purchase with 3–5% down. Savings can also go toward closing costs and reserves.
Month 8: Explore Kirkland, the Eastside, and Nearby Areas
Spend time in neighborhoods that match your lifestyle. Examples include:
Kirkland: walkability, Lake Washington views, strong community
Bellevue: schools, amenities
Redmond: tech hub + outdoor spaces
Woodinville: wineries + space
Seattle neighborhoods: Ballard, Green Lake, Queen Anne, and more
This is one of the most enjoyable months of the process.
Month 7: Build Your Home Criteria
Think about:
home type (condo, townhome, single-family)
bedrooms/bathrooms
willingness to remodel
commute preferences
parking needs
lifestyle goals
Your criteria will evolve over time—and that’s completely normal.
Month 6: Meet With a Real Estate Agent (Me!)
We’ll talk through your goals, your comfort level with price, neighborhoods you’re considering, and what a realistic timeline looks like for you.
My role is to give you the clarity you didn’t know you needed.
Month 5: Begin the Pre-Approval Process
Pre-approval helps you:
understand your buying power
compare loan types
plan monthly payments
build a strong offer later
I can connect you with excellent, trustworthy lenders familiar with Kirkland & Seattle markets.
Month 4: Start Browsing Homes Strategically
At this point you’re not “just browsing”—you’re learning:
what your price range buys in Kirkland vs Redmond vs Seattle
which features matter most
how fast homes sell
where you may want flexibility
This is where everything begins clicking.
Month 3: Begin Touring Homes
Touring teaches you what photos can’t. You’ll quickly learn what feels right—and what doesn’t.
I’ll guide you through value, concerns, opportunities, and the vibe of each neighborhood.
Month 2: Prepare to Make an Offer
We’ll discuss:
pricing strategy
contingencies
competitive advantages
timing
how to stand out without overpaying
This step is essential in busy markets like Kirkland and Seattle.
Month 1: Make an Offer & Move Through Closing
Once your offer is accepted, we move through:
inspection
appraisal
underwriting
signing
and finally… keys!
You’ll feel supported during every step.
A Final Thought
Whether you end up buying in Kirkland, elsewhere on the Eastside, in Seattle, or anywhere in the Greater Puget Sound, having a clear plan makes the experience far more rewarding. I’m here to help you navigate the process at your pace and with complete confidence.
FAQ
Do I really need a full year?
No. Some buyers take 2–3 months; others prefer a longer runway.
When should I reach out to you?
Month 6 is ideal, but earlier is always welcome.
Can I buy sooner than 12 months?
Absolutely—we simply move through the same steps more quickly.
If you're thinking about buying a home in Kirkland, on the Eastside, or anywhere in the Greater Puget Sound, I’m here to help.
📞 Call or Text Me
📧 Email Me
📅 Schedule a Meeting
