Cash to close
Ask for an estimate of your down payment, closing costs, and prepaid expenses, including how deposits and any agreed credits affect the total.
BUY YOUR FIRST HOME
Your first home.
A clearer way to get there.
You don’t need to know every step. You need someone who will explain the next one—and tell you honestly when a home isn’t the right fit.
Utah real estate. People first.
Alex brings experience in home sales, new construction, and loan origination to the conversation. He helps connect what you want in a home with the practical decisions ahead, while your lender handles financing approval.
- Talk through your priorities before touring.
- Ask about the condition, costs, and tradeoffs.
- Keep looking when a home doesn’t make sense for you.
A PLAN YOU CAN FOLLOW
From the first question
to the next right step.
Start where you are. Work through the decisions together.
- 01
Start with your life.
Your commute, space, timing, and a payment you feel comfortable living with. Tell Alex what home needs to do for you.
- 02
Get clear on financing.
Speak with a lender about eligibility and cash to close. Compare Loan Estimates and ask about the full payment, not just principal and interest.
- 03
Tour with a purpose.
Compare the homes against your priorities. Alex helps you ask better questions about condition, location, layout, and future needs.
- 04
Offer, investigate, close.
Work through offer terms, inspections, deadlines, and closing coordination with Alex and the professionals involved in your purchase.
LOOK A LITTLE CLOSER
Plan for more than the down payment.
Bring these questions to your lender and your first conversation with Alex. A comfortable plan leaves room for life after closing.
Monthly ownership costs
Consider taxes, insurance, any mortgage insurance or HOA dues, utilities, and a maintenance cushion alongside the loan payment.
Your safety net
Account for moving and initial repairs while keeping savings available for unexpected costs. Decide what feels comfortable before making offers.
The home itself
Ask about inspections, repair history, and documents available for the property. A beautiful kitchen is only one part of the decision.
Have a specific home or question in mind?Talk it through with Alex
ALEX’S PREFERRED LENDER
The home search.
The financing. Together.
Alex and Brandon work together to help you connect your home search with your financing plans. Bring them into the conversation early so the property, budget, and timing can be considered together.
YOUR LENDING CONTACT
Brandon Maughan
Loan officer · Utah & Idaho
Have questions about getting started, comparing loan options, or financing your next home? Talk them through with Brandon.
Meet Brandon & explore home loansAlready working with a lender? Alex is happy to coordinate with the lender you choose.
Do I need a 20% down payment?
Not always. Down-payment requirements vary by loan program and borrower. A lender can compare the options, mortgage insurance, and total costs for your situation.
Should I talk to Alex before I’m preapproved?
Yes. You can start with questions about the process and your goals. Work with a lender early so your search and any offer are based on realistic financing.
Are there first-time buyer assistance programs?
Programs may be available, but eligibility, funding, and terms change. Ask a participating lender to check current options, including Utah Housing, and explain repayment or other conditions.
What if I’m months away from buying?
That’s a useful time to start. Alex can help you identify priorities and questions to work through before your search becomes time-sensitive.
Go a little deeper
CFPB homebuying guideUnderstand your Loan EstimateUtah Housing homebuyer resourcesOfficial resources reviewed September 22, 2026.BUY YOUR FIRST HOME
Your next step.
A conversation with Alex.
What areas interest you, when might you move, and what questions are on your mind?
Talk with Alex NickleStart with what’s on your mind.