#HomeBuyingTips,#MortgagePreApproval,#RealEstateNegotiation,#ClosingCosts,#HomeInspection,#BuyerStrategy,In this episode of Coffee with Real Estate, Susan and producer Kurt break down how buyers can land the best house for the least amount of money—without getting crushed by hidden costs or overpaying in a competitive market. They start with the foundation: building buying power through lender pre-approval, understanding debt-to-income, and improving credit so financing stays cheap and offers stay strong. Next, Susan walks through defining the ‘best home’ so you don’t overbuy—non‑negotiables vs. nice‑to‑haves, location, school zones, commute, and layouts that work for the next 5–10 years. Then they shift to the real numbers that matter: total monthly payment, PMI, taxes, insurance, and HOA, and why those costs usually rise over time. Susan shares a smart search strategy to uncover value—mispriced listings, long days on market, stale photos, limited showing windows, and vacant homes with motivated sellers. Finally, they cover offer frameworks and negotiation levers beyond price: concessions, rate buydowns, warranties, timing, and using inspection findings to translate repairs into dollars while keeping the deal intact. Plus, they bust myths: lowest price isn’t always best, and you don’t have to waive everything to win. Fun topic: adult ‘pre‑gaming’ is back—are rising drink prices changing how people go out?