By Tracey Henkels, February 16, 2023
Are you considering buying your first home? You need to live somewhere, so why not start investing in your future with home ownership?
Step 1:
Save money for your down payment. This can seem difficult or even impossible but it may be surprising that you need as little as 3% for your downpayment. Sure, 20% down is ideal but not necessary.
Step 2:
Make a connection with a local realtor who is referred to you by someone you trust. It’s never too early to connect with an agent, even if you are a year or more out from starting your home search. Many first time homebuyers don’t realize how many ways a skilled agent can not only guide you thru the entire purchasing process but can help you get prepared. Realtors are a valuable resource for buyers before, during and after your home purchase.
Step 3:
Talk to a highly recommended mortgage broker and apply for your pre-approval letter. If you aren’t quite ready, it’s OK! You can find out what you need to put in place to get your pre-approval letter in the future.
Tracey Henkels
Principal Broker | Earth Advantage | OR
She/Her
Tracey Henkels attributes her disciplined nature and relentless work ethic to a childhood spent rising and retiring by the light of the sun on her family's apple orchard in Iowa. Gratefully, that Midwestern mentality has served her well over the years as Tracey continues to deliver excellent customer service, superior technical skill, and a wide array of industry knowledge on behalf of her clients.
While Tracey wouldn't trade her career as a Real Estate broker for any other, her first love was Architecture. After receiving her degree at Iowa State University, Tracey worked in the architecture world for over 6 years before deciding she wanted to forge a new professional path. In 2004, Tracey jumped heart-first into the world of helping her people buy and sell houses. She's never looked back.
When you meet Tracey, one of the first things you notice is her positive energy, and zest for life. One of her favorite things about being a broker is the ability to help people make powerful transitions. Tracey's natural patience, unwavering professionalism, and optimistic attitude make her both a compassionate broker and tough negotiator.
Tracey is committed to serving others, making a difference in her community, and giving back. When she isn't working hard to best serve her clients, you might find her tending to her garden, growing fresh vegetables and beautiful flowers, cross country skiing, or planning her next exciting adventure.
Tracey works as a team, alongside Kelsey Burkett, Broker Licensed in OR.
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- T: 503-715-6140
- traceyhenkels@gmail.com
