Struggling with student loans, self-employment, or just not knowing where to start? JT shares the top three things he wishes he’d done sooner to get closer to buying a home. This episode is hosted by JT, the Creative Director of How to Buy a Home—and an aspiring buyer himself. After editing over 100 episodes, he realized there were a few major steps he should’ve started years ago. Whether you’re a renter with debt, inconsistent income, or no idea where to begin, JT walks you through how credit repair, savings automation, and practicing your payment can completely reshape your timeline.

This is the perfect episode for anyone who’s not quite ready to buy—but knows they want to be. JT’s honesty and step-by-step reflection will resonate especially with:

• Freelancers or self-employed buyers

• Renters with debt or uneven income

• Anyone overwhelmed by where to start

It’s a deeply personal, no-fluff solo episode that captures the real mindset of a buyer-in-progress—offering both relatable struggles and practical next steps.

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Highlights:

• What’s holding you back—credit score, debt, income type, or all three?
• How becoming an authorized user can boost your credit fast
• Why automating savings—even in small amounts—creates long-term peace of mind
• How “practicing your mortgage payment” builds confidence and creates options
• Why starting these habits 6–12 months before you’re “ready” changes everything
• How JT turned podcast lessons into an actual plan for future homeownership

Referenced Episodes:

• Episode 274 – JT’s earlier homebuying mindset
• Episodes 301–310 – Starter Kit Series
• Episode 303 – Credit, Debt & Financial Prep
• Episodes 339–340 – Lender Strategy with Kelly Cort
• Episode 337 & 338 – How to Avoid Moving Scams

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David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer.

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