Hi Dave – I’m a single mom and I really want to buy my first house. What advice can you give me as a first-time home buyer to make sure I do things right?

—Angela, Grand Junction

Angela,

First, let me say congratulations on taking this step! Buying your first home is a big milestone—and it can feel extra daunting when you’re balancing it all on your own. But with some planning and the right support, it’s absolutely possible—and incredibly rewarding both personally and financially.

Here are a few pieces of advice I always share with first-time home buyers, especially those doing it solo:

 1. Know your numbers.
Before you start touring homes, sit down and look honestly at your income, debts, and monthly expenses. A good lender (or even an initial conversation with one) can help you see what price range fits your budget—not just what you can qualify for, but what keeps life comfortable....this is huge and helps ensure you will love your new home long after you move in.

 2. Get pre-approved, not just pre-qualified.
A true pre-approval means a lender has verified your financial documents and credit, making your offer much stronger when you find the right house. Sellers love that extra confidence—and it helps you shop realistically.

 3. Explore first-time buyer programs.
There are local, state, and national programs that may help with down payment assistance, lower interest rates, or reduced mortgage insurance. Your lender or Realtor can help identify which ones fit your situation so you can take advantage of every option possible.

 4. Think long-term about location and lifestyle.
Make a list of your must-haves (like number of bedrooms, yard, school district) and your nice-to-haves. Try to picture daily life: commute, grocery stores, parks, and any family support nearby. A home isn’t just about price—it’s about how well it supports your day-to-day life.

 5. Don’t skip the inspection.
Even if the home looks perfect, an inspection can reveal hidden issues—and help you avoid unexpected expenses down the road. It’s worth every penny.

 6. Build a “home emergency” fund.
Owning a home means surprises can and do happen (appliances break, roofs leak). Setting aside even a small amount each month will give you peace of mind and having a "rainy day fund" takes off a lot of pressure.....and trust me, it will rain one day.  I want you to be ready!!

 7. Choose the right Realtor.
Work with someone who truly listens, explains things in plain language, and helps you feel comfortable asking any question—big or small. A good agent is your advocate from start to finish. The bottom line, surround yourself with people who can help you get where you want to go and genuinely care about your outcome!

Buying a home as a single mom can feel overwhelming—but it also puts you in control of your own space and builds equity for your family’s future. You’ve got this!

Wishing you and your family the very best on this journey!

Dave Kimbrough
The Kimbrough Team- RE/MAX 4000

HAVE A QUESTION? ASK DAVE!

 dave@thekimbroughteam.com