Love Is Not Enough to Buy a House
Buying property together is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make as a couple. Here are five conversations to have before you sign anything.
1. What Does Your Credit Look Like?
Pull both credit reports and review them together. No surprises, no shame. Your combined profiles determine your interest rate and loan options.
2. How Much Can We Actually Afford?
Keep total housing costs under 28% of gross monthly income. Agree on a maximum before you start looking.
3. What Is Our Investment Strategy?
Forever home, starter to rent later, or investment from the start? This changes everything about what and where you buy.
4. How Are We Splitting Ownership?
If unmarried, get a co-ownership agreement. Even married couples benefit from clarity about expenses and equity.
5. What Is Our Emergency Plan?
Agree on an emergency fund (three to six months of housing costs) before buying.
Download our Family Money Meeting Kit for a structured framework.