How to Be a Competitive Buyer in 2026

Think buying a home right now is impossible? Think again. In this episode of Your Money. Your Mission., SVP Wealth Fiduciary Advisor and host, Kelly Mould, sits down with AVP Senior Community Mortgage Loan Officer, Sara Whitley and VP Mortgage Field Manager, Tony Petrie to cut through the noise and give you the real story about today's housing market. Whether you're a first-time buyer intimidated by the process or a seasoned homeowner ready to make your next move, this conversation is packed with practical advice you can actually use. We're busting myths (like that 20% down payment requirement), explaining why current interest rates are completely normal and sharing insider strategies for winning in a competitive market without breaking the bank.   In this episode: 00:00 – 05:14: Intro and Current Market Reality 05:15 – 10:40: Getting Started Right 10:41 – 23:30: Understanding the Numbers 23:31 – 30:45: Winning in a Competitive Market 30:46 – 38:35: Avoiding Common Pitfalls 38:36 – 40:35: Words of Encourage for Today’s Buyers   Additional resources: First-Time Homebuyer Resources | Johnson Financial Group Experienced Buyer Resources | Johnson Financial Group How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage: 4 Easy Steps | Johnson Financial Group Selling Your Home: 10 Financial Considerations | Johnson Financial Group