Are You Real Estate Ready?

Buying property sounds exciting—but are you actually prepared for the keys, the costs, and the commitment? Let’s find out.

Instructions: Pick the answer that sounds most like you. Tally your points and check your real estate readiness score at the end!

1. How’s your credit looking these days?

A. Great! I monitor it regularly and it's in the 700s or higher. (5 points)

B. It’s okay—low 600s, but I’m working on it. (3 points)

C. It’s not great and I haven’t checked it in a while. (1 point)

2. Do you have money saved for a down payment?

A. Yes, I have at least 3–20% saved, depending on the loan type I want. (5 points)

B. I have some savings but probably not enough for a full down payment. (3 points)

C. No savings yet, but I’ve thought about starting. (1 point)

3. How familiar are you with the home buying process?

A. I’ve researched loan types, pre-approvals, and closing costs. (5 points)

B. I’ve watched a few videos or talked to a realtor. (3 points)

C. No idea—just know I want a house someday. (1 point)

4. What’s your debt-to-income (DTI) situation?

A. Low and under control—I’ve calculated my DTI for a loan. (5 points)

B. It’s moderate—I have debt, but I make payments on time. (3 points)

C. I have a lot of debt and no idea what my DTI is. (1 point)

5. Have you been pre-approved for a mortgage?

A. Yes, and I know what I qualify for. (5 points)

B. Not yet, but I plan to apply soon. (3 points)

C. No—I’m not sure where to even start. (1 point)

6. What’s your biggest reason for wanting to buy real estate?

A. To build wealth and start creating generational assets. (5 points)

B. To stop renting and have something of my own. (4 points)

C. Because everyone else is doing it or told me I should. (2 points)

D. I’m not totally sure yet—I just want to see if I can. (1 point)

7. If something breaks in your home, what’s your first move?

A. Handle it—I’ve got an emergency fund for home repairs. (5 points)

B. Try to fix it or call a pro, but I’d need to move some money around. (3 points)

C. Panic—I wasn’t ready for this kind of responsibility. (1 point)

SCORE BREAKDOWN

30–35 Points: Real Estate Rockstar

You’re ready for the keys! You’ve been doing your homework, your finances are in order, and your mindset is long-term. Whether it's your first home or an investment property—you’re set up to win.

22–29 Points: Almost There

You’re getting close! You’ve got a few important steps to complete, like boosting savings or learning more about the process. With some prep, you’ll be ready to make moves sooner than you think.

13–21 Points: Real Estate Rookie 🧐

You’re dreaming about real estate, but your foundation needs work. Start with credit repair, budgeting, and learning the steps of homeownership so you can turn dreams into keys.

Below 13 Points: House Hunter in Hiding 😅

Buying property sounds nice—but you’ve got some serious prep to do. That’s okay! Awareness is the first step. Take time to build your knowledge, finances, and confidence—you’ll get there.