Most people assume the first step to buying a house is simple: start looking online, right? Scroll through a few listings, maybe drive by a couple of neighborhoods, and fall in love with a kitchen island. But here’s the truth—if you’re serious about buying a home, that’s not where you start. So, what is the first thing you do to buy a house? You start by preparing yourself, financially and mentally. You learn what you’re truly qualified for, how much buying power you really have, and what steps to take long before you ever schedule a showing. And you get expert guidance, right from the beginning, so you don’t get overwhelmed or misstep in the early stages.
TL;DR – What is the first thing you do to buy a house?
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Start by getting clear on your financial readiness—before anything else.
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Work with an experienced real estate professional like Robbie English who puts strategy first.
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Focus on education, preparation, and clarity—not just looking at homes online.
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Avoid pitfalls and gain an edge with expert advice and strategic guidance.
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Robbie English, Broker and REALTOR at Uncommon Realty, helps clients navigate with confidence, experience, and proven success.
What is the first thing you do to buy a house?
This is exactly where I come in.
I’m Robbie English, Broker and REALTOR at Uncommon Realty, and I help people like you make smart, confident real estate decisions every day. With decades of experience in real estate and a national reputation as a speaker and instructor, I don’t just help clients find homes—I help them position themselves to win. I’ve built a career on strategy, precision, and insight. And if you’re wondering where to start? Let’s break that down, right now.
Mindset Before Mortgage
Buying a home is equal parts emotional and strategic. But before you can act, you need to prepare. This starts with clarity—understanding your current financial state and what you need to align before anything else.
Credit scores, debt-to-income ratios, cash reserves, and long-term financial goals play a central role here. I always tell clients: the goal isn’t just qualifying for a loan. The goal is being ready to buy without putting your future at risk.
The first conversation I have with clients isn’t about how many bedrooms they want. It’s about understanding where they are now—and where they want to go. From there, we create a tailored plan. No guesswork. No crossed fingers.
Get Pre-Approved, Not Just Pre-Qualified
One of the biggest early mistakes people make is confusing pre-qualification with pre-approval. A pre-qualification is a casual estimate. A pre-approval, on the other hand, is a verified financial commitment from a lender that tells sellers you’re serious and capable.
But even beyond that, getting pre-approved opens up a whole new level of strategy. It clarifies your price range, narrows your focus, and positions you as a buyer to be taken seriously. Especially in a competitive market, this step can make or break your ability to succeed. And, if there is any room for concern, I have you covered there to (let’s talk).
When you work with me and my team, I connect you with trusted mortgage professionals who do more than fill in the blanks. They educate you, explain your options, and help you secure financing that fits your long-term needs. Because buying a house isn’t just a moment. It’s a move. A calculated one.
Understanding Your Priorities—And Why They Matter
Once you’re financially aligned, the next step is defining your priorities. Not surface-level wants like stainless steel appliances or a two-car garage—but the deeper needs driving your move. Is it about location? Flexibility? Long-term value?
This is where a skilled REALTOR shines. I’ve spent decades helping people cut through the noise to make decisions that align with their goals. It’s easy to get distracted by what looks great on the surface. But I’ll help you understand how to identify real opportunities and spot red flags—before they become problems.
And if you’re thinking about buying a house in Austin or the surrounding area, I bring something unique to the table. As a national real estate speaker and instructor, I’ve taught agents across the country how to truly serve clients, avoid common pitfalls, and negotiate strategically. That experience goes directly to your advantage.
Build Your Team Before You Build Your Offer
You wouldn’t go to court without a skilled attorney, right? And I hope you wouldn’t administer your own anesthesia before surgery. So don’t go into one of the biggest purchases of your life without the right team around you.
The real estate agent you choose should be more than someone who just opens doors. You need a guide. A strategist. Someone who anticipates challenges before they show up. That’s what I do.
I don’t operate on autopilot. I don’t believe in shortcuts. And I certainly don’t believe your journey should feel like a transaction. I believe in personalized service that treats you like a person with unique goals, not a number.
This is where I stand apart from other agents. I’ve spent years mastering the real estate industry—on the ground and at the front of the classroom. I’ve worked with every kind of buyer, from first-timers to seasoned investors. My goal? To make sure every one of them walks away feeling like they made the smartest move possible.
Strategy Beats Speed, Every Time
Everyone loves the idea of a quick close. But speed without strategy leads to regret. The first thing you do to buy a house shouldn’t be rushing into showings or placing offers under pressure. It should be thoughtful, deliberate, and focused.
I walk my clients through every detail—from timelines and contingencies to offer structure and negotiation tactics. When we put in an offer, we do so with intention. With leverage. And with eyes wide open.
Because it’s not just about getting a house. It’s about getting the right house under the right terms. And there’s a big difference between the two.
Why Choose Robbie English?
The answer is simple: expertise, dedication, and results. My track record speaks for itself, but more importantly—so do my clients. I’ve built a business on referrals, repeat success, and lasting relationships.
When you work with me, you don’t just get access to listings. You get access to deep knowledge, hard-earned experience, and a level of commitment that’s rare in this industry.
I’ve taken the time to understand not only the mechanics of real estate, but also the psychology behind smart decision-making. I teach it to other agents. I live it every day. And I bring that insight to every client I serve.
From contract to close, I’m in your corner—proactively solving problems, advocating for your interests, and making sure you feel confident at every step.
Let’s Get You Ready to Win
So, what is the first thing you do to buy a house? You begin with clarity, with strategy, and with a partner who knows how to guide you.
That’s exactly what my team and I at Uncommon Realty do every day. We don’t take a cookie-cutter approach. We don’t rely on gimmicks. We focus on what works. We ask smart questions, help you build a strong foundation, and walk with you from the very first step to the final closing signature—and beyond.
If you’re ready to start your journey, start it right. Skip the confusion. Skip the overwhelm. Choose a better way. Choose a better guide. Choose someone who has taught the best in the business how to deliver results—because that’s exactly what I’ve done.
I’m Robbie English, and I’m ready when you are. Let’s talk about your goals, what matters to you, and how we can make your next real estate move your best one yet.
