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Kurt Kessler Barrett Financial Group
NMLS #365130

Copyright © 2026 Barrett Financial Group, LLC. All rights reserved. | Barrett Financial Group, L.L.C. 2701 East Insight Way Suite 150, Chandler, AZ 85286. (480) 459-4500 | Fax (800) 385-3630. NMLS #181106. AZ MB - 0904774. Loans made or arranged pursuant to Finance Lenders Law License CA 60DBO 46052. Equal Housing Lender.

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Homebuying Basics

Homebuying Basics

Everything you actually need to know before you buy.

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chapter 01

Get the Lay of the Land

Before you crunch numbers, see what the homebuying journey actually looks like.

1.1 The Homebuying Journey, Start to Finish

Every phase from deciding to buy through getting the keys — with realistic timelines so you know what to expect

3 min
chapter 02

Know Your Numbers

Lenders look at a handful of numbers. Here's what they mean — and what you can do about them.

2.1 What's a DTI — and Why Does It Matter?

Your debt-to-income ratio tells lenders how much breathing room you have. Most buyers are closer to the threshold than they think.

8 min

2.2 What Lenders Actually Look for in Your Credit

It's not just about having good credit. Here's the number that gets you in the door and the one that gets you the best rate.

4 min
chapter 03

Choose How You'll Borrow

Not all loans work the same way. The right one depends on your situation.

3.1 FHA, VA, Conventional — Which Loan Is Right for You?

Each loan type has different down payment requirements, credit thresholds, and tradeoffs. Here's how to think about them.

8 min

3.2 Saving for a Down Payment

How much you actually need, how long it realistically takes, and the savings moves that get you there faster.

3 min
chapter 04

Make the Offer Real

Closing day costs, escrow, and the paperwork that turns a search into ownership.

4.1 The Costs Nobody Warns You About

Closing costs run 2–5% of the purchase price on top of your down payment. Here's exactly what you're paying for.

7 min

4.2 What Is Escrow and Why Does It Exist?

Your lender collects part of your monthly payment for taxes and insurance. Here's where it goes and why it protects you.

8 min

4.3 Pre-Approval: What It Is and Why You Need It

A pre-approval letter tells sellers you're serious. Here's what it takes to get one and how long it lasts.

7 min

Have questions about your homebuying journey? Ask Kurt.

Your Journey
Up next:

Agent Selected

Kurt Kessler
Email
Sr. Mortgage Advisor
Barrett Financial Group

NMLS #365130

(925) 400-3850

kurtkessler@barrettfinancial.com
Lloyd Felix
Agent
RE/MAX Accord

Salesperson #1383527

(925) 487-0513

lloyd+hjoofup14@lloydfelix.com