Here’s the thing: you might be more ready than you think. Buying a home doesn’t require perfection. It requires preparation—and a clear understanding of your goals, budget, and timeline.

So, how do you know if it’s time to take the next step?

Here are 5 signs you might be ready to buy a home—even if you’re still on the fence.

A rate buydown is when the seller (or builder) pays to temporarily lower your interest rate, often for the first 1–2 years of your mortgage. It doesn’t reduce the purchase price of the home, but it can dramatically reduce your monthly payment—especially in that early stretch when every dollar counts.

Your monthly home checklist for the month of May!

If you’ve been holding off on buying a home because you think you need a massive down payment—like 20%—you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common myths I hear from first-time buyers in Seattle. The truth? Most buyers put down far less—and you can too. In fact, the average down payment for first-time homebuyers nationwide is often closer to 6%, not 20%. In the greater Seattle area, where median home prices can feel intimidating, smart financial planning and the right guidance can open doors (literally) much sooner than you think.

Buying a home is more than just a financial investment—it’s a deeply personal journey. It's finding your place, where your story continues and new chapters unfold. At Aufhammer Homes, we don’t take that lightly. We believe in home. And we believe you deserve a buying experience that feels informed, empowering, and (dare we say it?) enjoyable. So, what’s it really like to buy a home with us? Here’s what you can expect—plus three common risks we help our clients avoid every step of the way.

We recently closed on a townhome in Issaquah for some wonderful repeat clients who had just bought their new home earlier this year. With their move complete, it was time to sell—and they entrusted us with the entire process. From the moment they handed over the keys, our goal was simple: minimize hassle, maximize return, and reduce risk.

We’re keeping a close eye on how these laws will impact real estate here in the Greater Seattle area. If you're curious about what this could mean for your home or investment property, let’s connect—we’d love to help you think through the possibilities.

The moment your home hits the market, it’s like the curtain rising on opening night. Serious buyers—many of whom have been waiting and watching for months—are refreshing their apps daily. They’re pre-approved, motivated, and ready to make an offer the second the right home appears. That’s why the first 14 days are absolutely critical.