Preparing To — Buy A House

🏗️ Phase 1: The Financial Foundation (6–12 Months Out)

Buying a home is likely the biggest financial move you'll ever make. In the 2026 market, where inventory remains tight and interest rates are stabilizing, being "ready" means more than just having a down payment—it means having a strategic, multi-phase plan. preparing to buy a house

: Ensure your monthly payment (EMI) is under 30% of your gross income. 🏗️ Phase 1: The Financial Foundation (6–12 Months

: Pull reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. : Pull reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion

: Correct errors and avoid opening new lines of credit (like car loans) which can tank your score. The 20/30/40 Rule : Use this for a healthy balance:

: Aim for this down payment to avoid Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI).

: Keep a 40% income buffer for savings and other life goals.