What Every First-Time Homebuyer Should Know in Connecticut — Advice from Sara Tufano, REALTOR®

What Every First-Time Homebuyer Should Know in Connecticut — Advice from Sara Tufano, REALTOR®

First home, first big move — and a lot of questions. Sara Tufano helps first-time buyers across Central Connecticutunderstand the path, anticipate hurdles, and win with confidence.

1) The Money Map

• Pre-approval vs. pre-qualification: Why it matters in competitive towns.

• Down payment & closing cost planning: Grants/assistance where applicable, gift funds, and reserves.

• Monthly comfort zone: Consider taxes, insurance, and utilities by town.

2) The Right Team

• Local lender + agent edge: Faster communication and stronger reputation with listing agents.

• Attorney & inspector selection: Choose for responsiveness and clarity.

• Insurance & title: Quote early; understand coverage differences.

3) The Search

• Town comparisons: Taxes, schools, commute, amenities, shoreline vs. inland.

• Property types: Condo rules/fees, single-family maintenance, multi-family income potential.

• Tour strategy: Red flags, resale considerations, and neighborhood due diligence.

4) Making the Offer

• Price & terms: Align to comps and seller priorities.

• Contingencies you actually need: Inspection, financing, appraisal — and how to phrase them.

• Earnest money & timeline: Set a realistic but compelling cadence.

5) Inspections & Negotiations

• Expect findings: Prioritize safety/structure/mechanicals.

• Negotiate wisely: Credits vs. repairs vs. price — and the timing of each ask.

• Walk-away line: Know when it’s not the right house.

6) Appraisal, Final Approval & Closing

• If appraisal is low: Options include rebuttal, price shift, or gap coverage.

• Clear-to-close checklist: Conditions, insurance binder, wire instructions.

• Final walkthrough: Verify condition and agreed repairs.

7) After the Keys

• First-month priorities: Locks, filters, detectors, maintenance baseline.

• Vendor list: Painters, handyman, landscapers, cleaners — ask Sara for referrals.

• Budget habits: Sinking fund for future upgrades.

Book a first-time buyer strategy call with Sara Tufano at 203.623.8402 or sara@saratufanohomes.com.Meta Description:
New to buying a home in Connecticut? REALTOR® Sara Tufano shares the steps, timelines, loans, and pitfalls — from pre-approval to closing day.