The #1 Thing Buyers Can Do to Get Ahead in Today’s Market

If you're on the lookout for a home, you might be feeling a bit of pressure as you wait for the perfect listing to pop up. It’s easy to assume that the right home will just appear when the time is right, but there’s something you can do today to get ahead in the game.

Here’s my advice: The sooner you prepare, the better off you'll be.

The reality is, the home that checks all your boxes—whether it's an open floorplan, gleaming wood floors, or a finished basement—could be listed next week or next month. And when it hits the market, you don’t want to be caught off guard or behind the curve. You need to be ready to act fast.

So, here are three simple yet effective steps I always encourage my buyers to take right now:

1. Talk to a Lender and Get Pre-Approved

Before you even step foot in a home, it's crucial to understand what you can truly afford. By talking to a lender and getting pre-approved, you’ll have a clear understanding of your budget and purchasing power. This will not only help you avoid wasting time looking at homes that aren’t in your price range, but it will also give you a competitive edge in a market where sellers want to see that you are ready to make a move. Pre-approval is the first step in turning your dream home into a reality.

2. Narrow Your Search Criteria

In a competitive market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of options. That’s why it’s important to define what you really need and want in a home. Are you set on a certain neighborhood? Is a large backyard a must-have? Narrowing your search criteria ensures that you can spot "the one" when it hits the market—and it will help you make decisions quickly when you find it.

3. Stay Close to the Market

Homes can list midweek and sell before the weekend even hits. It happens more often than you'd think. By keeping a close eye on listings, you’ll be among the first to know when a property that fits your criteria is available. Being informed and reacting fast can make all the difference in securing the home of your dreams.

Preparation Equals Peace of Mind

The more prepared you are, the more options you have—and that’s the key to peace of mind in today’s fast-moving market. When you're ready to act, you won't be left scrambling. And best of all, you’ll feel confident that you're making decisions based on your goals and budget.

As always, if you want to talk through any of this or have questions about next steps, I’m here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out!

P.S. If you’re already pre-qualified, ready to move, and want to discuss the next steps, reply to this post or shoot me a message—let’s chat about how we can make your home buying process a success!