Shows
Your First Home3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying My First HomeWhen I bought my first home, I had already been a real estate agent for 4 years. I had walked dozens of clients through the process and thought I knew exactly what to expect, but the reality of being the buyer was a total shock. In this episode, I share the 3 lessons I learned from buying my own home for the first time, what surprised me most, and what I wish more people were talking about when it comes to buying a home. Tune in to prepare your mindset and your money so you can buy your first home without...
2026-02-2515 minYour First HomeBuying a House with a VA Loan (Biggest Myths Busted!) with Lauren Davis + Todd SevierThere are so many misconceptions about VA loans. I still hear listing agents call them "weak offers." I still hear buyers say, "I already used my VA loan once, so I can't use it again." And I constantly get asked whether putting 0% down is actually smart. So today, we're setting the record straight. I'm joined by Air Force combat veteran and real estate agent Lauren Davis, along with senior loan officer Todd Sevier, to break down exactly how VA loans work; the benefits, the myths, the funding fee, refinancing, using it more than once, and how to...
2026-02-1830 minYour First HomeThe Step-by-Step Timeline for Buying Your First HomeBuying your first home is a big decision, and no one really explains how the timeline works or what happens before you ever step foot into a showing. In this episode, I break down the full timeline from house hunting to closing so you can stop guessing and start planning with confidence. I talk about how long it really takes to find the right home, what happens after your offer is accepted, and how to time everything around your lease so you're not rushed into a decision you regret. Tune in to learn how to give yourself enough runway...
2026-02-1116 minYour First HomeIs an FHA Loan Right for You? What First-Time Buyers Need to KnowA lot of buyers hear "FHA loan" and assume it's automatically the best option for first-time homebuyers, but that's not always true. In this episode, I break down what FHA loans actually are, who they're designed for, and the biggest myths that cause buyers to make the wrong choice. I share why FHA loans aren't just for first-time buyers, how they really compare to conventional loans, and why a lower interest rate doesn't always mean a lower monthly payment. Plus, I also talk about credit score flexibility, mortgage insurance, and why FHA offers can be harder to get accepted...
2026-02-0422 minYour First HomeThe First-Time Buyer's Guide to Turning Your Home Into an InvestmentA lot of people buy their first home thinking, "Maybe I'll rent this out someday." But then a few years later, they realize the numbers don't work, the location isn't right, or the property just isn't built for renting. In this episode, I share how Hoang and I intentionally bought our first home with the plan to turn it into a rental and what that decision taught us about money, stability, and long-term wealth. I give tips on how we chose the right neighborhood, how we ran the rent-versus-mortgage numbers, why living in the home first gave us a...
2026-01-2821 minYour First HomeHow to Not Go Broke Buying a House in 2026So many future homeowners tell me, "I'm scared to buy a house because I don't want to end up house poor." And honestly? That fear is a good thing. It means you're thinking ahead and doing this the right way. In this episode, I break down what to do before, during, and after buying a home so you can protect your finances and still enjoy your life. I talk about how to practice your future mortgage payment, how much cash you really need saved (hint: it's more than just your down payment), what to look for in a home...
2026-01-2119 minYour First HomeDo You Have Enough of a Down Payment Saved?!One of the biggest questions first-time buyers ask me is, "How much money do I really need before I buy?" And honestly, the answer isn't a one-size-fits-all number. In this episode, I'm breaking down why the old 20% rule no longer works for today's market, how waiting too long can actually hurt you financially, and what matters way more than your exact down payment percentage. I also talk about monthly affordability, emergency funds, and how to know when you're truly ready to leap into homeownership. Get ready to stop second-guessing and feel confident about when your time to buy really...
2026-01-1417 minYour First HomeShould You Wait to Buy a Home? 2026 Market Predictions ExplainedHome prices today can feel downright shocking, especially when you see what the same house sold for just a few years ago. In this episode, I talk about what's really happening behind those price jumps and what experts are actually forecasting for 2026. I also dive into why the last few years were anything but normal, why trying to time the market is risky, and what "normal" finally looks like again after the chaos of the COVID-era real estate. I break down predictions from Redfin, Realtor.com, and Zillow in plain English and explain how to use this information without...
2026-01-0718 minYour First HomeThe 3 Biggest Mistakes First-Time Homebuyers MakeI still can't believe we were never taught how finances work or how to buy a house in school. In this episode, I break down the 3 most common mistakes I see first-time homebuyers make and how to avoid them before they turn into expensive regrets. I talk about why timeline matters more than people realize, how winging the process leads to rushed decisions, and why buying a home you can't truly afford is the fastest way to turn a dream into stress. Tune in to learn how to protect yourself, plan intentionally, and buy a home that supports your...
2025-12-3119 minYour First HomeThe Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a HouseWhen people first start thinking about buying a house, the most common question I hear is, "Where do I even begin?" In this episode, I break down the entire homebuying process, from the very first steps to getting your keys on closing day. I talk about when to bring in a realtor and lender, how to move from browsing online to serious house hunting, what really happens during offers and negotiations, and what to expect once you're under contract. Tune in to learn exactly what happens from your first showing to getting the keys. In T...
2025-12-2417 minYour First HomeHow much do you need saved to buy a house?How much money do you actually need saved to buy your first home? In this episode, I break down the "it depends" answer with a simple framework you can use to set a realistic savings goal for 2026, 2027, or whenever you're ready. You'll learn the three categories of money you need to plan for, what makes the number change based on your market and lifestyle, and how to think about your down payment in a way that supports your real life, not just a generic rule of thumb. In This Episode, You Will Learn A...
2025-12-1717 minYour First HomeHow to Get a Lower Interest Rate? Everything You Need to Know About Buydowns!Interest rate buydowns are everywhere right now, but most first-time buyers don't actually understand what they are or how they work. In this episode, I break down the two types of buydowns, what they really cost, and how they impact your monthly payment and long-term finances. I share real numbers, compare negotiating a lower purchase price versus negotiating a buydown, and how to decide which option makes the most sense for your goals. Tune in to learn how to use buydowns strategically instead of letting them quietly work against you. In This Episode, You Will L...
2025-12-1019 minYour First HomeYour 6 Step Action Plan for Buying a House in 2026Home buying has its own timeline, and the biggest mistakes happen when buyers wait too long, or get emotional too early. In this episode, I break down the six steps that will set you up for a smooth, confident homebuying journey next year. I also talk about how "home-buying time" works towards building your wishlist, choosing your F.A.M.E. agent, and knowing exactly when to bring in a lender. Tune in if you want to avoid surprises, stay in control of your budget, and make 2026 the year you buy the right home, not just any home.
2025-12-0323 minYour First HomeThe Mortgage Secrets No One Tells First-Time Buyers (But Could Save You Thousands)Most first-time buyers worry about getting a "good deal" on a house, but the real place people lose money is on their mortgage. In this episode, I break down how interest actually works, why amortization is so misunderstood, and how a normal 7% rate on a $400,000 loan quietly turns into almost a million dollars over 30 years. I share the questions lenders hope you don't ask, the numbers to run before you buy, and the steps that help you get a better rate and keep more of your money long-term. Tune in to learn how to avoid the most expensive mistakes...
2025-11-2623 minYour First HomeHow Long Does It Really Take To Save? Money Habits to Pay Off Debts While You Build Savings with Money Coach Nick LoeraWhat does it really take to save for your first home, especially when it means paying off debt, saying no to short-term temptations, and making a major life move? In this episode, I'm joined by first-time homebuyer and money coach Nick Loera, who spent nearly five years paying off debt, building savings, relocating from California to Texas, and renovating his new home almost entirely by hand. Nick shares the financial habits that help you stay consistent, the conversations couples need to have before buying together, and why saving is as much about mindset as it is about math. Get...
2025-11-1937 min
She Talks MoneyUnlocking the Secrets to First-Time Homeownership with Stacie RihlIn this exciting episode of She Talks Money, I sit down with Stacie Rihl, a powerhouse in the world of first-time homebuying, to uncover her best tips and strategies. Whether you're just starting to save or ready to close, Stacie breaks down the entire journey—from building your savings and understanding your credit, to choosing the right agent and navigating market twists and turns. She shares inspiring stories from her own path from Philadelphia real estate agent to a nationwide home buying mentor, and reveals how you can turn yo...
2025-11-1855 minYour First HomeStruggling to Save Your Down Payment? Here Are Simple Money Habits That Actually Help You Save for Your First Home with Paige PritchardSaving for your first home doesn't just depend on how much you earn, it's about how intentionally you spend. In this episode, I'm joined by money coach and Overcoming Overspending founder Paige Pritchard to talk about the mindset and emotional habits that quietly keep you from saving that down payment. Paige shares the "money map" strategy, how to make budgeting feel empowering instead of restrictive, and why overspending often has more to do with dopamine and social media than math. Get ready to take control of your spending and build momentum toward your savings goals. I...
2025-11-1253 minYour First Home5 Mistakes First-Time Homebuyers Make with Theoni RapoSay goodbye to mortgage mystery and "I wish I'd known" mistakes. In this episode, I'm joined by Theoni Rappo (aka Not Your Daddy's Lender) to simplify what first-time buyers actually need to know: we're talking realistic down payments, when (and how) to tap a 401(k), what underwriters look for on bank statements, how gift funds really work, job-change do's and don'ts, and the fastest ways to build credit if you didn't start early. You'll leave with a step-by-step pre-approval plan, the exact prompt to estimate your debt to income ratio, and a simple money setup that makes saving for...
2025-11-0530 minYour First HomeHidden Costs of Buying a New Home - What You Need to Know About New Homes vs. Existing with Andrea RuizLet's demystify building a new home vs. purchasing resale (without the surprises, costly upgrades, or "wish we'd known" regrets) with today's guest and Houston new construction expert, Andrea Ruiz. If you're deciding between building from dirt or moving into something that's already finished, this episode walks you through everything from timelines, inspections, warranties, financing incentives, taxes, HOAs, and the subtle red flags most first-time buyers miss. You'll leave knowing exactly how to compare builders, when a "deal" isn't a deal, and how to protect your budget (and your equity) from day one. In This Episode, Y...
2025-10-2934 minYour First HomeThe 3 Biggest Mistakes We Made Buying Our House with My Husband, Hoang Bui-NguyenMy husband is here to talk all things homebuying with your partner without the drama, second-guessing, or costly missteps. In this candid episode, Huang and I unpack the real lessons we learned across three home purchases, what went sideways, what we'd never do again, and what actually set us up to win the next time. If you want fewer fights, clearer decisions, and offers you can feel great about, this conversation will help you align your priorities, filter out bad advice, and move from "overwhelmed" to "on the same page." In This Episode, You Will Le...
2025-10-2232 minYour First HomeCan you realistically buy a house solo? with Lily WyssBuying a home solo comes with unique questions, especially around what you can truly afford. In this episode, I sit down with Portland agent and two-time solo homeowner Lily Wyss to break down the real-life steps she used to buy her first condo at 23, build equity, and level up into a home she loves, without feeling house poor. We get practical about monthly payments, lender consults, emergency funds, and how to choose the right first property (even if it's a stepping-stone). In This Episode, You Will Learn Tell the difference between what you're q...
2025-10-1539 minYour First HomeDon't Buy A House Until You Know About These Red Flags with Home Inspector Vince TecceIf you've ever wondered what to really look for during a home tour, or what red flags could cost you thousands after closing, this episode is for you. I'm joined by home inspector Vince Tecce. He inspected both of my own homes and countless client properties, and today he's sharing insider advice that every first-time buyer should hear before making an offer. From spotting hidden water damage and understanding roof issues to knowing when to walk away after an inspection, this episode gives you the tools and confidence to make informed decisions without second guessing yourself.
2025-10-1528 minYour First HomeHow do you know if you're REALLY ready to buy a house?How do you actually know if you're ready to buy your first home? In this kickoff episode of Your First Home Podcast, I'll walk you through six must-check boxes that every future homeowner needs to confidently say "I'm ready." From understanding your "why" behind buying a home to evaluating your finances, credit, debt, and income stability, you'll learn what it really takes to make one of the biggest financial moves of your life without the overwhelm. If you've ever wondered whether now is the right time to buy, or how to know when you're truly ready, this episode is...
2025-10-1522 minYour First HomeWelcome to Your First Home podcast!Welcome to Your First Home Podcast - I'm your host and homebuying expert Stacie Rihl and I've spent the last 8 years helping first-time homebuyers like you make their dreams of owning a home reality. Buckle up, because we're about to demystify the process and learn everything we should have been taught in school about the biggest and most exciting purchase you'll ever make. Your first home.
2025-10-1400 min
Hustle Humbly Podcast320: How Educating Buyers Builds Trust and BusinessWhen Stacie Rihl hosted her first first-time homebuyer class, only 10 people showed up and she had 15 pizzas. Fast forward a few years, and she now runs a national referral business built entirely around teaching buyers how the process works. After gaining experience in both the real estate and mortgage industries, Stacie Rihl recognized a major gap in education and resources for first-time homebuyers. She went on to become an online educator for new buyers, offering free virtual classes that have helped over 20,000 people learn the home-buying process. In this episode, we chat with Stacie about...
2025-09-2244 min
Hustle Sanely283: How to Make the Home-Buying Process Less OverwhelmingThinking about buying your first home but feeling totally overwhelmed? You’re not alone, and this episode is here to help! 🏠This week, I’m joined by Stacie Rihl, a first-time homebuyer educator and expert who’s helped over 16,000 people feel confident and prepared to purchase their first home. She’s walking us through how to actually get started, what to do with your finances, and how to feel less stressed during the process, especially if you’re self-employed.In this episode, we chat about:Simple ways to prep and organize before starting the...
2025-07-2247 min
Just Another Money Podcast034: How to Buy Your First Home with Stacie RihlHow do you know when you're ready to buy a home? In this week's episode, Lauren and Nick are joined by Stacie Rihl, a first-time homebuyer expert who's helped over 16,000 people learn the buying process!–––––––How to get in contact with Stacie Rihl: https://stacierihl.com–––––––0:00 - Intro1:04 - Who is Stacie Rihl?5:16 - Biggest misconceptions homebuyers have11:20 - How much can I afford on a monthly basis?
2025-07-0147 min
The Overcoming Overspending Podcast166: How to Confidently Navigate the Home Buying Process With Home Buying Expert, Stacie RihlIf you feel like home ownership is in your future, look no further than this week's episode so you can confidently navigate the home buying process. In this week's episode of The Money Love Podcast Paige is talking with Stacie Rihl, a former realtor, mortgage broker, and a home buying expert who has helped thousands of first time home buyers navigate the home buying process with clarity and ease. Paige and Stacie break down how to get financially ready to buy a home, the first steps you need to take once you're ready to find your dream h...
2024-09-031h 02
2021-12-0918 min
Real Talk With Rebecca ChalsonEp. 7: Stacie Rihl, Talking Real Estate & Ladies Of PhillyIn this episode, Rebecca connects with Stacie Rihl, Founder of Ladies Of Philly, and passionate real estate professional. Find out her top tips for networking and working effectively with clients to show you care. Connect with her today on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacierihl/
2020-08-1124 min