How to Buy a Home: The #1 First Time Home Buyer Podcast

David Sidoni
  • 4.8 (891)
  • How To
  • Updated Semiweekly

Trying to buy your first house in 2026? Start at Episode 400 to start the trusted 10 Steps for Buying Your First Home. This system has helped thousands of renters across the United States say goodbye to their landlords and navigate the 2026 housing market. How to Buy a Home is proud to be the #1 Podcast for First Time Homebuyers across the nation since 2019. Hosted by veteran realtor and 20 year consumer advocate for first time home buyers, David Sidoni, this podcast features expert insights, up to date real estate forecasts, and hundreds of interviews with real first time homebuyers so you can learn from real success stories. If you're trying to buy your first home, you probably have questions like: Can I actually buy a house? How much do I need? Where do I start? The real estate industry overlooks first-time buyers, leaving them with myths, bad advice, and roadblocks. How to Buy a Home has helped thousands of renters become homeowners, coaching thousands across the country. Get real answers, insider strategies, and success stories from buyers just like you. Homeownership might be closer than you think. Let’s get you there.

  1. First Time Homebuyer Pros & Cons: New Build vs. Resale - 490

    16h ago

    First Time Homebuyer Pros & Cons: New Build vs. Resale - 490

    Trying to decide between a new construction home and a resale property? This episode breaks down the real pros, cons, hidden costs, and negotiation strategies that can help first-time buyers make the right decision. Many first-time homebuyers assume there is a clear winner between new construction and resale homes, but the right choice depends on personal goals, budget, lifestyle, and market conditions. This episode explores the advantages of new builds, including lower maintenance, energy efficiency, and builder incentives, while exposing common traps like upgrade costs, builder lender pressure, and misleading pricing. It also examines the benefits of resale homes, such as established neighborhoods, larger lots, and stronger location options, along with the risks of repairs and maintenance. Most importantly, buyers learn how to compare homes based on total value, not just price, so they can build a strategy that supports both their short-term needs and long-term financial goals.    “Strategy beats emotion every single time.” — David Sidoni, First Time Homebuyer Coach Highlights Thinking about a brand-new home? What are the real advantages and hidden drawbacks?Lower maintenance costs and fewer repair surprisesBetter energy efficiency and modern floor plansBuilder incentives that may not be as valuable as they appearUpgrade costs that can significantly increase the final purchase price Check out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHome Instagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcast Tik Tok @HowToBuyAHome Visit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit! David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

    46 min
  2. 2026 Housing Affordability Update for Renters and First Time Homebuyers - 489

    2d ago

    2026 Housing Affordability Update for Renters and First Time Homebuyers - 489

    Feeling priced out of homeownership in 2026? This episode breaks down why affordability may actually be improving for first-time buyers. Rising home prices and mortgage rates have convinced many renters that buying a home is impossible, but the real math tells a different story. This episode explains why 2026 is more affordable than 2023 and how lower interest rates are quietly creating better opportunities for first-time buyers. Listeners learn how credit scores, debt-to-income ratios, savings, and income requirements affect mortgage approval in today’s market. The episode also exposes the danger of outdated advice and shows how education and strategy can help buyers move forward with confidence instead of fear. “It’s time to once again bring you hope and possibilities with my favorite friends. Math and data.” — David Sidoni, First Time Homebuyer Coac Highlights Is buying a home in 2026 actually more affordable than it was three years ago?How much do lower mortgage rates change your monthly payment and buying power?What do credit scores, debt, savings, and income really mean for mortgage approval today?Why are so many first-time buyers getting bad advice about the housing market and affordability? Check out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHome Instagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcast Tik Tok @HowToBuyAHome Visit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit! David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

    24 min
  3. 8 First Time Homebuyer Tips to Beat High Interest Rates - 488

    6d ago

    8 First Time Homebuyer Tips to Beat High Interest Rates - 488

    High mortgage rates don’t automatically make homeownership impossible, and this episode explains the real strategies buyers are using to still make the math work. You probably think today’s housing market is impossible without family money or a huge down payment? This episode breaks down the biggest myths surrounding high interest rates and first-time homebuyer affordability. Learn why buyers were still purchasing homes during even less affordable years, how low down payment and rent replacement strategies work, and why obsessing over tiny rate differences can actually distract from better long-term decisions. This episode also challenges fear-based real estate content and explains how education, planning, and strategy can create opportunities even in a difficult market. “People are lying to you. One of the big lies about your ability to buy a home is that high interest rates make it impossible to find affordable options.” — David Sidoni, First Time Homebuyer Coach Highlights What if high interest rates are not the real reason buyers feel locked out of the market?Why are some first-time buyers still purchasing homes successfully with low down payment options?Could focusing too much on finding the absolute lowest rate actually hurt your long-term strategy?What affordability myths are keeping renters stuck on the sidelines longer than necessary?  Check out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHome Instagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcast Tik Tok @HowToBuyAHome Visit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit! David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

    37 min
  4. 4 Foundations of First-Time Homebuyer Affordability in 2026 - 487

    May 26

    4 Foundations of First-Time Homebuyer Affordability in 2026 - 487

    Think buying a home in 2026 is impossible? The math says otherwise, and this episode breaks down why affordability has quietly improved for first-time homebuyers. Housing affordability headlines are creating fear, but the actual numbers tell a different story. This episode explains why 2026 is mathematically more affordable than 2023, even after years of rising home prices and higher mortgage rates. Listeners learn how credit scores, debt-to-income ratios, savings, and income requirements affect mortgage options today and why many first-time buyers still have more paths forward than they realize. The episode also breaks down the danger of outdated advice and shows how education, planning, and understanding the current market can help buyers move forward with confidence. “It’s time to once again bring you hope and possibilities with my favorite friends. Math and data.” — David Sidoni, First Time Homebuyer Coach  Highlights Why was 2023 actually less affordable than 2026 for first-time homebuyers?How do lower interest rates change affordability even when prices stay high?What do credit scores, debt, savings, and income really mean for mortgage approval today?Why are so many buyers getting outdated or misleading homebuying advice online and from industry professionals? Check out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHome Instagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcast Tik Tok @HowToBuyAHome Visit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit! David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

    31 min
  5. Home Inspections - 17 Red Flags for First Time Homebuyers - 486

    May 21

    Home Inspections - 17 Red Flags for First Time Homebuyers - 486

    Learn how to read a home inspection report without panic, spot serious red flags, and use inspections to protect yourself during the homebuying process. Home inspections can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers seeing pages of defects and warnings for the first time. This episode breaks down why inspection reports always look scary and explains how inspectors protect themselves through exhaustive reporting. Buyers will learn which issues are true red flags, which problems are normal maintenance concerns, and how inspections can strengthen negotiations instead of killing deals. The episode also covers why waiving inspections in competitive markets can be risky and how choosing the right inspector can protect buyers from expensive mistakes later. “You can then turn that inspection into one of your strongest tools in the negotiations.” — David Sidoni, First Time Homebuyer Coach Highlights What should first-time buyers actually worry about in a home inspection report?Why do inspection reports make almost every house look terrible?When is waiving a home inspection too risky in a competitive market?How can buyers use inspection findings to negotiate repairs or credits? Check out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHome Instagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcast Tik Tok @HowToBuyAHome Visit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit! David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

    38 min
  6. Timing the Market as a First Time Homebuyer - 485

    May 18

    Timing the Market as a First Time Homebuyer - 485

    Everyone says timing matters in real estate. But what if waiting for the “perfect” market is actually putting first-time buyers further behind? Most first-time buyers spend years waiting for lower rates, lower prices, more inventory, or some magical signal that says, “Now is the time.” But is that really a good idea? This episode breaks down the hidden realities of housing market timing, why different seasons completely change the buyer experience, and how competition shifts throughout the year. Buyers will also learn why some people seem to succeed in almost any market while others stay stuck waiting on the sidelines for conditions that may never come. “Timing the housing market can not only take a lot of stress out of the process, but it can also save you big dollars and gain you massive leverage in your own custom home buying process.” — David Sidoni, First Time Homebuyer Coach Highlights Is waiting for the “perfect” housing market actually costing buyers more?Why do some seasons create massive competition while others create opportunity?What hidden market patterns do experienced buyers already understand?Why do some first-time buyers move forward confidently while others stay frozen for years? Check out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHome Instagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcast Tik Tok @HowToBuyAHome Visit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit! David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

    23 min
  7. Condo Red Flags, Interest Rates, and HOA Surprises First Time Homebuyers Should Know (INTERVIEW) - 484

    May 15

    Condo Red Flags, Interest Rates, and HOA Surprises First Time Homebuyers Should Know (INTERVIEW) - 484

    Buying a condo can help renters become homeowners sooner, but first-time buyers need to understand HOA rules, financing risks, and loan strategy before signing a contract. For many renters, condos and townhomes feel like the most realistic path into homeownership, especially in expensive markets where single-family homes feel out of reach. This episode breaks down the hidden risks buyers can face with HOA finances, insurance problems, pending lawsuits, special assessments, and condo approval rules that can suddenly delay or kill a loan. Buyers will also learn how mortgage points, APR versus interest rates, debt-to-income ratios, and rate locking strategies can affect both monthly payment and long-term affordability. Most importantly, the conversation focuses on helping first-time buyers create a smart financial plan early so they can stop renting faster while avoiding expensive mistakes during the buying process. “Cash gives you options. If you’re debt free and you’ve got no money in the bank, you don’t have a lot of options.” — Kelly Cort, Nationwide Lender Highlights What HOA financial problems can make a condo non-warrantable or ineligible for financing?Why should first-time buyers understand the difference between interest rate and APR before choosing a loan?How can rate locks, points, and monthly payment strategy affect long-term affordability?Why do experienced lenders and realtors help buyers build a long-term plan instead of only focusing on pre-approval numbers? Check out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHome Instagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcast Tik Tok @HowToBuyAHome Visit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit! David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

    53 min
  8. Top 10 Mortgage Questions Every First Time Homebuyer Needs Answered - 483

    May 13

    Top 10 Mortgage Questions Every First Time Homebuyer Needs Answered - 483

    David Sidoni breaks down the biggest mortgage myths, lending traps, and loan questions confusing first-time homebuyers in today’s housing market. The mortgage process can feel overwhelming when every lender, website, and social media post seems to give different advice. In this episode, David Sidoni explains why first-time buyers should stop chasing the lowest advertised interest rate and start looking for a true mortgage advisor who can guide their long-term strategy. He also exposes how large online lenders and real estate platforms are relying more heavily on automation and AI-driven systems instead of personalized service for buyers who need education the most. Throughout the episode, listeners learn how to avoid common lending mistakes, understand key mortgage concepts, and build a smarter plan to buy a home with confidence. “You want to shop for a mortgage advisor, a planner, a guide.” — David Sidoni, First Time Homebuyer Coach Highlights What are the biggest mortgage myths hurting first-time homebuyers right now?Why can chasing the lowest mortgage rate actually cost buyers more long term?How are AI-driven lenders and online mortgage systems failing first-time buyers?What should buyers look for in a mortgage advisor before starting the homebuying process? Referenced Episodes 364 - Buying a Home in High Mortgage Interest Rate Markets - 2025 Update402 - How to Buy a Home - Step 2: Realtors & Lenders (Choosing Your Guides)403 - How to Buy a Home - Step 3: Improving Your Credit Score (16 Pro Tips)339 - Don’t Get Pre-Qualified-Get a Plan (INTERVIEW)340 – Down Payment Assistance, Discovery Calls & Lending Myths (INTERVIEW)11 – Should A First Time Home Buyer Use A National Internet Lender Instead Of A Local?16 – How To Get A Loan When Looking To Buy Your First Home with Dino Katsiametis443 - First Time Homebuyer FAQ: What Can I Actually Afford in 2026?426 - Lowering Your Down Payment – Financially Prepare to Buy Your First Home – Pt. 7480 - How to Buy a Home Explained in Under 20 Minutes (First Time Home Buyers)474 - WARNING: “Step by Step” Lists for First Time Homebuyers – Can You Trust Them? (Zillow, Best Money, NerdWallet…etc.)454 - First Time Homebuyer Lending Options 2026: How to Find the Best Deal when Shopping for a Mortgage (Interview)349 - Credit Score Solutions for First-Time Buyers (INTERVIEW)346 - How to Build the Perfect Mortgage Plan (Before You Apply)345 – Why You’re Asking the WRONG Question About Interest Rates261 - How to Shop for the Best Mortgage Rate66 - How To Shop For The BEST Mortgage Interest Rate On Your Home Loan236 - Interview with First Time Home Buyer Navigating High Interest Rates + (mini) 2024 Housing Market Update!192 - Google Sucks: Financial Basics You Should Know180 - Online Mortgage Calculators Are GARBAGE - Here’s Why153 – Buying Your First Home Right Out Of College - And A Special Announcement32 – Interview With VA Loan Specialist Chris Griffith With Tips For Vets, As Well As All First-Time Home Buyers Check out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHome Instagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcast Tik Tok @HowToBuyAHome Visit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit! David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy

    29 min
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4.8
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Trying to buy your first house in 2026? Start at Episode 400 to start the trusted 10 Steps for Buying Your First Home. This system has helped thousands of renters across the United States say goodbye to their landlords and navigate the 2026 housing market. How to Buy a Home is proud to be the #1 Podcast for First Time Homebuyers across the nation since 2019. Hosted by veteran realtor and 20 year consumer advocate for first time home buyers, David Sidoni, this podcast features expert insights, up to date real estate forecasts, and hundreds of interviews with real first time homebuyers so you can learn from real success stories. If you're trying to buy your first home, you probably have questions like: Can I actually buy a house? How much do I need? Where do I start? The real estate industry overlooks first-time buyers, leaving them with myths, bad advice, and roadblocks. How to Buy a Home has helped thousands of renters become homeowners, coaching thousands across the country. Get real answers, insider strategies, and success stories from buyers just like you. Homeownership might be closer than you think. Let’s get you there.

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