Home Buying 101: What Every First-Time Buyer Needs to Know

Buying your first home is one of life’s biggest milestones—and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the details. From inspections to insurance, there’s a lot to think about before you get the keys. Here are a few essentials every first-time buyer should know to make the journey smoother and stress-free:

1. Understand Your True Budget

Before you start searching, get pre-approved and take time to understand all your monthly expenses—including property taxes, utilities, and ongoing maintenance. Knowing your financial comfort zone helps you shop with confidence.

2. Schedule a Home Inspection

A professional home inspection gives you peace of mind and helps uncover potential issues early. If repairs are needed, they can often be negotiated before closing.

3. Protect Your New Investment

After closing, a CHW Home Warranty can be a valuable safeguard against unexpected repair costs.
It covers major systems and appliances—like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical—so you’re protected when the unexpected happens. For first-time buyers, this can mean real peace of mind during the first year of homeownership.

4. Plan for the Future

Even after move-in day, homeownership comes with ongoing responsibilities. Stay on top of seasonal maintenance, and know who to call if something breaks. Having a home warranty plan means you’ll always have a reliable solution ready when you need it most.

At Choice Home Warranty, we make protecting your home simple and affordable—so you can focus on enjoying it.

Ask your real estate professional about including a Choice Home Warranty with your home purchase and start your new chapter with confidence.