Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you'll make — and one of the most common questions we hear from buyers is, "When should I actually start planning?"

The short answer: earlier than you think. 

(listing photo by Step Inside Media, staging by Jennifer Hoyt and Shelley Lazzareschi) 

If you're looking to buy a home in the Madison area

We recommend beginning your planning process at least four to six months before you need to move. That window gives you time to get pre-approved for a mortgage, get a real feel for the neighborhoods you love, and avoid the pressure of making one of life's biggest decisions in a rush. Ideally, you give yourself an even longer runway — because the more prepared you are, the more confident you'll feel when the right home comes along.

And when it does, you'll know.

If you'd like to talk through your situation with one of our team members, we'd love to connect. There's no sales pitch and no obligation, just a helpful conversation to help point you in the right direction.

Reach out to one one of our experts to talk about what your path to homeownership looks like.