Ready to buy your first home in Livingston County? The Pat Lotz Real Estate Group First-Time Home Buyer Guide makes the process simple and stress-free. Learn how to get pre-approved, understand mortgage options, make a strong offer, and close with confidence. Whether you’re looking in Brighton, Howell, or Hartland, our local expertise will help you find the perfect home and start your homeownership journey the right way.
Buying your first home is one of the biggest — and most exciting — milestones of your life. But let’s be honest: it can also feel overwhelming at first. Between understanding mortgages, navigating offers, and figuring out what you can really afford, there’s a lot to take in.
That’s where we come in. At Pat Lotz Real Estate Group, we’ve helped hundreds of first-time buyers across Livingston County — from Brighton and Howell to Hartland and South Lyon — make the leap from renting to owning with confidence.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know to get started, step-by-step.
Step 1: Know What You Can Afford
Before you start scrolling through homes online, it’s crucial to understand your budget.
- Check your credit score: This impacts your mortgage rate and loan options.
- Estimate your down payment: Most first-time buyers put down between 3%–5%.
- Don’t forget closing costs: Plan for 2%–5% of the home price to cover fees and taxes.
💡 Pro Tip: Connect with a trusted local lender early — Pat Lotz Real Estate Group can recommend some of the best in Livingston County. Getting pre-approved not only clarifies your price range but also makes you a stronger buyer when it’s time to make an offer.
Step 2: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
A pre-approval letter tells sellers and real estate agents that you’re serious. It outlines how much you’re qualified to borrow, based on your income, credit, and debt.
There are several loan types available for first-time buyers:
- FHA Loans: Great for lower credit scores and smaller down payments.
- Conventional Loans: Flexible, with competitive rates for strong credit.
- USDA & VA Loans: Offer zero-down options for qualifying buyers in certain areas or for veterans.
👉 If you’re buying in Livingston County, many areas qualify for USDA loans — ask us which neighborhoods do!
Step 3: Partner with a Local Real Estate Expert
Having the right agent by your side makes all the difference — especially as a first-time buyer.
At Pat Lotz Real Estate Group, we:
- Know the ins and outs of the Livingston County housing market
- Negotiate strategically to protect your interests
- Guide you through inspections, appraisals, and every document
Keep you informed and confident every step of the way
We’re not just here to help you find a home — we’re here to help you find your home.
Step 4: Start House Hunting
Now the fun begins! Once your budget and pre-approval are in place, it’s time to explore.
We’ll help you identify what’s most important to you, like:
Commute times and neighborhood amenities
School districts and local parks
Home features and potential resale value
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overlook the “bones” of a home. Cosmetic updates can always be changed — layout, location, and lot size can’t.
Step 5: Make an Offer & Negotiate
When you find “the one,” we’ll help you craft a strong, competitive offer. In a fast-moving market like Livingston County, timing and strategy are everything.
Our team handles all the details: from writing your offer to negotiating repairs and closing terms.
Step 6: Home Inspection & Appraisal
Once your offer is accepted, it’s time for due diligence.
- Home inspection: Ensures the property is in good condition and identifies any repairs needed.
- Appraisal: Confirms the home’s value for your lender.
Don’t stress — we’ll help coordinate everything and explain what each step means.
Step 7: Closing Day! 🎉
This is it — your new beginning. You’ll sign final documents, receive your keys, and officially become a homeowner.
Before you know it, you’ll be unpacking boxes and celebrating your first night in your new home.
First-Time Buyer FAQs
Q: How long does it take to buy a home?
Typically 30–45 days from offer to close, depending on financing and inspections.
Q: How much money do I need up front?
Usually 3–5% down payment + 2–5% closing costs. We’ll help you estimate your total.
Q: What credit score do I need?
Most lenders prefer 620+, but FHA and other programs can work with lower scores.
Q: Should I buy now or wait?
Waiting for the “perfect market” can backfire — prices and rates can shift fast. Buying when you’re financially ready is the best time.
Ready to Start Your Home Buying Journey?
Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy starter home in Brighton, a family-friendly neighborhood in Howell, a lakehouse oasis in Pinckney, or a condo near South Lyon, the Pat Lotz Real Estate Group is here to help every step of the way.
📞 Call or text Pat at 734-637-3668
🌐 Visit PatLotz.com
📍 Serving Livingston County and beyond — Brighton, Howell, Hartland, Pinckney, South Lyon & surrounding areas.
Buy with confidence. Buy with local experience. Buy with Pat Lotz.
