Adam started his search with a number. He knew what he could comfortably spend, and he wanted to see how much home that budget could buy.
His map was small, too. He wanted to stay close to I-205, which narrowed the field even more. That kind of search takes clear priorities, and Adam had them.
Working backward from the budget
A garage was a big one. He also wanted something newer and in good shape, not a project that would eat his savings after closing.
When we lined those priorities up against his budget, a townhome kept coming out ahead. It gave him a garage, a newer build, and a layout with more room than he expected. We also walked through how HOA dues change the monthly picture compared to a house with no HOA, so he could see the real cost side by side. If you are weighing the same choice, our [first-time home buyer guide] covers how to compare them. [link to buyer guide]
A transaction with a few non-traditional pieces
Adam’s offer was accepted right after a big price drop, but the more unusual part came before that.
The seller met Adam when he toured the home for the first time. It was hard for the seller to leave the home, and he was more involved in the process than any seller we have worked with. By the end of that first visit, he had decided he wanted Adam to be the next owner. He held to that even though other offers came in.
We have seen sellers care about who buys their home. We have not often seen it play out this directly. Adam had the right numbers, and he also took the time to listen to the seller talk about what he loved about the home and the neighborhood. That mattered.
Having his dad in his corner
Adam’s dad was part of the process from the start. He offered good insight, steady support, and a calm perspective when decisions came up. We enjoyed our conversations with both of them.
Moved in
Adam now has a townhome with two bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. For a first home, that half bath is a real luxury.
He and his dog Tank are finally moved in, and we could not be more thrilled for them.
At Campbell Salgado Real Estate Group, we know every move tells a story.
Every first-time buyer starts with a different budget, a different map, and a different list of must-haves. We will help you sort through the options, run the numbers, and figure out what fits. Start with our Vancouver guide, or explore our Moving to Portland Relocation Guide if you are planning a move to the Vancouver’s sister city. Reach out anytime at 503-951-8547 or click below to schedule a time to talk.
Kim Campbell, Realtor | PSA, RENE | Licensed Oregon Broker
Francisco Salgado, Realtor | MCNE, EA | Licensed Oregon and Washington Broker
Campbell Salgado Real Estate Group with Soldera Properties
