Answers by Jese Gonzalez

You’re smart for asking this. There are a lot of “we’ll help you” promises out there that turn into radio silence when it’s time to actually apply. What you need is a local, experienced lender who actively works with first-time buyer programs (not just says they do). Here’s how I help my buyers find one: Start local. Skip the giant online lenders. Talk to a lender who’s familiar with El Paso programs like TSAHC, TDHCA, and Homebuyer Assistance grants. They know which programs fit your income and credit best. Ask the right question. Instead of “Do you offer down-payment programs?” ask, “Which government programs have you successfully closed for buyers in the last 6 months?” Their answer tells you everything. Get pre-qualified first. A good lender will take the time to review your income, credit, and goals before suggesting a program, not the other way around. Work with your Realtor and lender as a team. When your agent (hi 👋) and lender communicate early, you’ll have a smoother process and stronger offers. If you’re buying in El Paso, I’m happy to connect you with trusted local lenders who specialize in first-time buyer programs and have helped my clients secure thousands in down-payment assistance.

You don’t need to go full HGTV perfection, but yes, clean absolutely matters for an appraisal. Appraisers aren’t grading your home on how spotless your baseboards are, but they do take overall condition into account. A clean, well-kept home sends the message that it’s been well-maintained, which can make a subtle difference in how they view its value. Here’s what I tell my sellers: Declutter like you’re having guests over. Clear counters, put away laundry, and minimize distractions. Fix small things like burnt-out bulbs, leaky faucets, loose door handles. Curb appeal counts! Mow, sweep, and tidy up the entryway. First impressions start before they walk inside. Deep clean the basics like floors, bathrooms, and kitchen. You want it to smell clean too. You don’t need a remodel, just a good polish. Think “model home tidy,” not “white-glove inspection.” A clean home helps the appraiser focus on what really adds value, your home’s features, condition, and upgrades. If you’re in El Paso and prepping for appraisal, I share my “Appraisal-Ready Checklist” with my sellers. it’s all the small things that make a big impact.

If you disagree with your home’s valuation (a.k.a. the appraisal), here’s what to do: Start by reviewing the report. Look for errors like wrong square footage, missing upgrades, or outdated comps. Even small mistakes can affect value. Compare comps. Your Realtor (hey, that’s me ☕) can pull a fresh CMA to see how your home stacks up against recent sales. File a reconsideration of value. If there’s solid evidence the appraiser missed something, your agent or lender can submit a formal request for review. Stay calm and strategic. A low appraisal doesn’t always mean disaster. Depending on your situation, we can explore renegotiating with the buyer, getting a second opinion, or even waiting for market shifts. Appraisals are opinions, educated ones, yes, but still opinions. The key is having a Realtor who knows how to challenge one the right way. If you’re in El Paso and think your home was undervalued, I’m happy to review your report and give you an honest, no-pressure breakdown of your options. Sometimes a second look makes all the difference.

Most people think the first step is scrolling Zillow at midnight but the real first step is talking to a local lender and getting pre-approved. Here’s why: It tells you exactly what you can afford (before you fall in love with that $500k kitchen). It helps your Realtor (that’s me 😉) tailor your home search to your true price range. It shows sellers you’re serious, which gives your offer more power. Once you’re pre-approved, your Realtor can help you find “the one”, the home that fits your lifestyle, not just your budget. If you’re in El Paso, I work with amazing local lenders who walk my buyers through everything from credit clean-up to down-payment assistance programs. The right guidance from day one saves you time, stress, and money. Think of pre-approval as the “green light” to start your home-buying journey, the rest is where the fun begins!