Why First-Time Homebuyer Classes are a Game Changer

Did you know that about 43% of first-time homebuyers feel overwhelmed by the process of buying a home? Totally makes sense — it’s one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and it can feel like everyone else knows what they’re doing except you. That’s exactly why I host First-Time Homebuyer Classes, and why I bring in Matt Nolan, a lender with Community Choice Credit Union, to co-teach with me.

Why I offer these classes

I see buyers every day who feel lost, stressed, and afraid to ask the “basic” questions. And honestly? None of this should feel like a mystery. My class exists to take all of that confusion and turn it into clarity, confidence, and a real plan.

What we actually cover

Before you start scrolling Zillow like it’s a part-time job, it helps to understand what’s happening in today’s market — from interest rates to pricing trends to the actual step-by-step process of buying a home. Buying isn’t just “find a house → make an offer.” There’s strategy involved: understanding neighborhoods, financing options, inspections, legal requirements, and avoiding costly mistakes (like forgetting about closing costs — yes, that happens a lot).

What to expect when you come

Expert guidance:

I’m not going to teach you the lending piece — that’s Matt’s world. Matt walks you through everything from loan programs and interest rates to credit scores and down-payment strategies in plain English, not banker-speak.

What I do teach is everything else that actually happens in a real estate transaction.
I break down the entire home-buying process step by step — how the market works right now in the Des Moines metro, what to watch for during showings, how inspections and appraisals work, what to expect during negotiations, and how closing actually unfolds so there are zero surprises. We talk about making smart offers, navigating multiple-offer situations, understanding contingencies, and what really matters (and what doesn’t) when you’re evaluating a home.

My goal is for you to leave understanding the whole timeline from the first showing to the closing table — and to feel confident that you know exactly what to expect at every step.

A relaxed, pressure-free environment:
We meet at the Johnston Public Library, so you feel comfortable asking anything. No suits. No sales pitch. No judgment. Just real talk.

Things you’ll walk away with:

• Checklists that explain the process from start to finish

• A breakdown of loan types & down-payment assistance programs

• Access to trusted local contacts you’ll actually need

• A clearer understanding of your financial readiness

The financial side

My class is completely free — no cost, no catch. Plenty of programs out there charge for this information, but I believe education shouldn’t be another barrier to homeownership.

Here’s why it matters:

• You can literally save thousands
Understanding lending rates, fees, and timing can dramatically change what you pay over the life of your loan. Matt shows you exactly how that works.

• You may qualify for grants & assistance programs
Many state and local programs require proof of attendance at an approved class. We help you understand what’s available and how to access real money that can help.

Real-world hurdles we help you navigate

• Credit issues & how to work through them

• Market fluctuations & when to make your move

• Emotional decision-making (yes, houses are emotional)

This class breaks the process down piece by piece so everything finally makes sense.

Common questions

How long is the class?
About 90 minutes.

What if I’m not ready to buy yet?
Perfect — that’s honestly the best time to learn. There’s no pressure to buy anything soon.

Ready to take the next step?

If you’re tired of guessing and Googling, or you want to feel confident instead of overwhelmed, come join us at the next class on December 3rd. It’s free, it’s relaxed, and you’ll walk out with clarity and an actual plan.

Sign up here

You’ve got this.
Education turns uncertainty into confidence — and I’d be honored to help you start the journey.