Buying a home should be an exciting step forward—not an overwhelming process that leaves you stuck at square one. And yet, that’s exactly where many aspiring buyers find themselves: overwhelmed. For many, the biggest issue isn’t picking the right property, but overcoming financial hurdles when buying a home. Between trouble getting mortgage approval, growing debt, and unclear guidance on who pays for what, the homebuying journey can feel like a maze.

Let me walk you through it.

I’m Robbie English, Broker and REALTOR and I’ve been in real estate for decades, and I’m not just saying that to sound seasoned. I’ve put those years to work mastering real estate—so my clients don’t have to learn the hard way. I’m Robbie English, and I lead a team at Uncommon Realty that’s trained, focused, and relentless in helping buyers clear financial obstacles. We don’t just open doors; we help you walk through the right ones with confidence.

When you’re facing trouble getting mortgage approval or stuck figuring out how to save a down payment while paying high rent, it can feel like the whole system is working against you. But the truth? You can beat it—with the right plan and the right partner.

TL;DR – Overcoming Financial Hurdles When Buying A Home

Buying a home comes with financial roadblocks, but they can be managed with the right approach.
Trouble getting mortgage approval often stems from common debts like student loans, car payments, or high rent.
Buyers may now need to cover their agent’s fee directly—making it essential to budget accordingly.
Expert advice from Robbie English, a seasoned broker and national real estate instructor, can give you the edge you need.
Strategic planning, debt management, and guided representation will help you move past financial obstacles.

Debt Doesn’t Mean You Can’t Buy—But It Does Mean You Need a Plan

Debt is the most common reason people delay buying a home. Credit cards, car loans, and student loans are all part of modern life, but they’re also major contributors to mortgage denials or increased interest rates. If you’ve been turned down before, or you’re worried that your debt might push you out of contention, you’re not alone.

I’ve seen clients push past this obstacle with focused, simple strategies. It’s not about wiping out every dollar of debt overnight. It’s about smart positioning—reducing balances, increasing credit scores, and knowing when to pay what. This isn’t guesswork. My team helps you run the right play at the right time, based on how underwriters think.

The Down Payment Problem Isn’t Impossible

Saving for a down payment feels like chasing a moving target—especially when rent keeps rising and other obligations don’t let up. Maybe you’re a first-time buyer and you’re stuck paying a lease that eats half your income. Or perhaps you’re ready to move up but trapped under student loan payments or other financial commitments.

Either way, you’re in a group with thousands of others trying to make sense of how to stash away enough for a competitive offer. The pressure is real. But there’s a way forward. Whether it’s uncovering hidden savings opportunities, exploring less conventional lending programs, or simply putting a tighter framework around your budgeting, the goal is the same: create a cushion that turns your offer into a serious contender.

I help clients structure their financial path, with the same precision I teach agents across the country. Yep—I also serve as a national real estate instructor, helping agents master these exact complexities. So you can be sure the guidance I give my clients comes from a place of insight, not guesswork.

Trouble Getting Mortgage? Let’s Fix That First

If you’re having trouble getting mortgage approval, don’t start scrolling listings. Start by understanding why the loan didn’t go through—or why you’re anxious it won’t. Lenders want stability. They want to see consistency in income, reasonable credit scores, and low debt-to-income ratios. That might sound like a tall order, but most of it is fixable.

I’ve had buyers who came to me after two, three—even four denials—and got approved within a few months of working with our team. That’s not magic. It’s just process. And that process starts with an honest financial review, then a roadmap.

The New Cost in Town—Paying Your Agent’s Fee

In Texas—and increasingly across the country—the cost of hiring a buyer’s agent may fall on your shoulders. With potential changes following the National Association of REALTORS lawsuit and evolving practices around cooperative compensation, buyers may no longer see listing agents splitting commissions the same way they used to.

Here’s the deal: If you go to the listing agent directly, sure, you can get your offer written. But you won’t get advice. You won’t get representation. And you won’t have someone looking out for your financial interests. Attorneys can draft documents, yes. But they can’t run comps. They won’t negotiate strategically. And they certainly won’t prepare you for the nearly 50 potential ways a buyer can exit a transaction in Texas.

So yes, there may be a cost. But it’s a cost worth budgeting for—especially when you consider what’s at stake. Our clients are prepared for this shift because we talk about it upfront. We arm you with the knowledge, tools, and options you need to navigate this new normal without flinching.

Why You Should Work With Me Over Any Other Agent

This isn’t ego—it’s track record. Real estate isn’t a hobby for me. I’ve made it my mission. Over decades, I’ve studied the ins and outs of contracts, negotiations, and real estate strategy so that my clients don’t walk into deals blind. I lead a team that values preparedness and precision, and together we’ve helped buyers just like you navigate tough financial terrain with clarity.

I’m not just a Broker and REALTOR. I’m a national speaker and instructor, teaching agents nationwide how to get it right. But while others are learning, you’re benefiting. My clients get that edge.

And we don’t leave anything to chance. We guide you through each step—from financial prep and pre-approval all the way to closing and beyond. You’ll know what your options are, how to avoid common pitfalls, and how to stay competitive without overextending yourself.

What’s Standing in Your Way?

Sometimes it’s a car loan. Sometimes it’s a student loan. Sometimes it’s just not knowing where to begin. But whatever the reason, you’re not the only one who’s faced trouble getting mortgage approval or struggled with overcoming financial hurdles when buying a home.

Our job is to pinpoint those barriers and help you bust right through them.

We take the guesswork out of timelines, documentation, negotiation, and budgeting. And no, this isn’t some cookie-cutter approach. Every buyer has different financial variables, life timing, and goals. We respect that. And we tailor everything we do to make sure you’re moving forward—not spinning your wheels.

When You’re Ready, Reach Out

You’ve read this far for a reason. Maybe you’re feeling the weight of your financial reality and wondering if homeownership is even possible. Let me tell you—it is. But you shouldn’t walk the road alone.

Whether you’re overwhelmed, unsure, or just need a second opinion, my team and I are ready. At Uncommon Realty, we specialize in turning overwhelmed buyers into confident homeowners. You won’t find vague advice or empty promises here. Just clear strategies, reliable representation, and a team that genuinely wants to see you succeed.

Overcoming financial hurdles when buying a home is absolutely within your reach. You just need the right team behind you.

And that’s exactly who we are.

Let’s start the conversation.

Statistical Source: National Association of REALTORS’ 2023 ‘Home Buyer and Seller Profile’