This episode pulls back the curtain on what happens when a unicorn realtor, a killer team, and a well-prepared first-time buyer come together. David Sidoni is joined by Melissa and her realtor Alton to break down exactly how Melissa bought her first home—a $675K corner-unit condo—in a high-cost area without getting house poor. Buying in Southern California is tough—but Melissa, a first-time buyer and pharmacist, made it happen. In this episode, Melissa and Alton share how preparation, strategy, and the right team helped Melissa win a gorgeous, light-filled condo—with no bidding war and no major compromises. From dodging HOA disasters to insider tips on finding hidden value, this episode is packed with lessons for anyone buying in a competitive market.
Quote:
“This is my first home and I’m by myself. I didn’t really have anybody I could talk to who understood real estate… So I think [Alton] kind of just helped guide me… explaining things, putting in terms that I would quickly understand… I needed somebody to kind of guide me and to do that. I didn’t have anybody else like that.” — Melissa
Highlights:
• How Melissa’s preparation and spreadsheets made the homebuying process fast and smooth.
• The HOA disaster that saved her thousands—and how the right team caught it.
• Why natural light, a corner unit, and safety were dealbreakers—and how she got it all.
• The truth about physician loans—and why Melissa didn’t need one.
• How holiday buying season helped reduce competition and secure her dream home.
• What happens when you go under contract, back out, and still win the right home.
• The power of having a unicorn realtor who builds relationships and gets deals done.
Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!
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David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable
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