I Didn’t Buy My First Home In Sacramento Until I Was 36—And Here’s Why That’s Okay

There’s this idea that buying a home should come naturally—like something you just know how to do once you reach a certain age. But that wasn’t true for me.

I bought my first home when I was 36. Not because I didn’t want to buy earlier, but because, honestly, I didn’t know where to start. The process felt overwhelming. I kept hearing you needed 20% down, and I assumed that meant I was out of the game. So I stayed on the sidelines—waiting.

Looking back, I realize what I needed wasn’t money—it was guidance. I didn’t grow up seeing the homebuying process unfold. My parents bought the home I grew up in when I was three, so I never witnessed the steps, the paperwork, or the conversations that go into making one of life’s biggest purchases. And I know I’m not alone in that.

That’s why I work the way I do today. I walk people through the process from start to finish, because the truth is: once you know the steps, it’s not that overwhelming. It’s actually pretty straightforward—and you don’t need 20% down to get started.

Here are a few things I wish someone had told me back then:

• You don’t need 20% down. There are great loan programs that require as little as 3%—sometimes even less. We’ll find the right one for you.

• You don’t pay your agent out of pocket. Yes, you read that right. I’ve successfully negotiated every one of my buyer commissions to be paid by the seller—even in this market.

• If you like new homes, now’s a good time. Builders are offering amazing incentives right now—sometimes rate buy-downs or credits toward closing costs. And yes, you can (and should) have your own agent represent you in those deals.

• Interest rates are still in a good place historically. They may feel high if you’ve been watching headlines, but in reality, they’re about average. And if they drop in the future, you can refinance. But if home prices go up while you wait? You miss out on equity growth.

• If you can afford to buy now, don’t wait. The market favors buyers who are ready. Less competition. More negotiating room. And the ability to move at your pace.

So if you’re like I was—unsure where to start, uncertain about how much you need, or just overwhelmed by the unknown—know this: I’ve been there. And now I help people like you every single day.

If you’re curious about what buying a home could look like for you, reach out. I’ll break down the process step-by-step. No pressure. No judgment. Just guidance—tailored to where you are.

You’ve got this. And I’ve got your back.

Don Stocker

Don@StockerandWatts.com

916-203-2882

Real Estate Reinvented