How do I know if I'm ready to buy a home?

Readiness usually comes down to four things: steady income (most lenders want to see at least two years of consistent earnings, but there are exceptions), a debt-to-income ratio under about 45%, a credit score in the low-600s or higher, and enough cash on hand to cover a down payment plus a small cushion for closing costs and moving. You don't need perfection in every category — strength in one area can offset weakness in another. The honest answer is most people are closer than they think and most people wait longer than they need to. The best way to find out is to spend 15 minutes on the phone with me, run your real numbers, and get a written pre-approval (or a clear, no-pressure plan to get there in 3-6 months). It's free, there's no credit hit if we keep it to a soft pull, and you walk away knowing exactly where you stand instead of guessing.