How to Save Money For your First Home

How to Save Money to Buy Your First Home in Sacramento – Tips from Ray Maestas, Local Realtor of 18 Years

Buying your first home is one of the biggest financial steps you'll ever take, and if you’re looking in the Sacramento real estate market, you’re not alone. With a mix of urban convenience, outdoor beauty, and strong community vibes, Sacramento continues to attract first-time homebuyers from all over California. But before you can unlock the front door to your dream home, you need a smart savings strategy—and a trusted guide to get you there.

That’s where Ray Maestas, a Realtor with 18 years of experience in Sacramento real estate, comes in.

1. Set a Clear Savings Goal

Start by understanding the typical costs of buying a home in Sacramento. You’ll need to save for:

A down payment (often 3–20% of the purchase price)

Closing costs (usually 2–5% of the home price)

Moving expenses and future repairs or upgrades

Ray Maestas recommends starting with a realistic budget. “Knowing your numbers helps you focus and stay motivated,” he says.

2. Cut Costs, Not Comfort

Small lifestyle changes can have a big impact over time:

Cook more meals at home

Cancel unused subscriptions

Carpool or use public transit where possible

Choose staycations over expensive travel

Put the savings straight into a high-yield savings account labeled “Home Fund.”

3. Get Pre-Approved Early

“Too many buyers wait too long to get pre-approved,” Ray notes. A mortgage pre-approval doesn’t just clarify what you can afford—it also gives you an edge when you’re ready to make an offer in Sacramento’s competitive real estate market.

4. Take Advantage of First-Time Buyer Programs

Sacramento and California offer various grants, tax credits, and down payment assistance programs. A knowledgeable local agent like Ray Maestas can guide you through these options and help you take advantage of every benefit available.

5. Work with a Local Expert

Buying your first home can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. With nearly two decades of experience, Ray Maestas knows the Sacramento market inside and out. From hidden gem neighborhoods to negotiating the best deal, he’s helped countless first-time buyers turn their dreams into keys.

Ready to make your move?

Contact Ray Maestas today and take your first confident step toward owning a home in Sacramento.

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Looking for Sacramento real estate tips, listings, and first-time homebuyer resources? Follow Ray Maestas for expert advice and local insight—built on 18 years of real results.