Buying a home isn’t just about the number on your pre-approval letter — it’s about finding the balance between your budget, your lifestyle, and your long-term comfort. In this episode, I’ll break down how to figure out how much house you can really afford and why understanding your true comfort zone is the key to avoiding buyer’s regret.You’ll learn:Why purchase price doesn’t tell the whole storyHow taxes, insurance, and HOA fees impact affordabilityThe truth about pre-approval and why it’s not your shopping budgetHow to avoid becoming “house poor”The small details buyers often miss that can make a huge difference📥 Download my FREE Home Buyer’s Guide and Checklist here: https://www.leslieemartin.com/download-the-home-buyers-guide/If you’re thinking about buying a home in the Metro Detroit area, I’d love to guide you through the process with clarity, confidence, and strategy.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Why affordability isn’t as simple as it looks00:12 – The danger of falling in love with the wrong house00:19 – How much house can you really afford?00:37 – Why purchase price isn’t the right starting point00:47 – Two homes, same price… very different costs01:10 – What pre-approval really means (and its limits)01:39 – Lifestyle choices that impact your comfort zone02:01 – How loan types and down payments change the math02:19 – The hidden factor: property tax adjustments02:35 – Pulling it all together: finding your comfort zone02:53 – Confidence makes your offers stronger03:01 – Free Home Buyer’s Guide & Checklist03:25 – What’s coming next: Choosing the right real estate agent03:33 – How to reach me in Metro Detroit📌 Want expert advice on your next move?✨ Connect with Me:🌐 Website: https://www.leslieemartin.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leslieemartindtw📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/LeslieEMartinRealtor💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-martin-68a9a922a/🏡 Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/LeslieEMartin#MetroDetroitRealEstate #HomeBuyingTips #HouseHuntingDetroit