How Long Does It Really Take To Save? Money Habits to Pay Off Debts While You Build Savings with Money Coach Nick Loera
Release Date: 11/19/2025
How Long Does It Really Take To Save? Money Habits to Pay Off Debts While You Build Savings with Money Coach Nick Loera
Your First Home
What does it really take to save for your first home, especially when it means paying off debt, saying no to short-term temptations, and making a major life move? In this episode, I’m joined by first-time homebuyer and money coach Nick Loera, who spent nearly five years paying off debt, building savings, relocating from California to Texas, and renovating his new home almost entirely by hand. Nick shares the financial habits that help you stay consistent, the conversations couples need to have before buying together, and why saving is as much about mindset as it is about math. Get ready to...
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Struggling to Save Your Down Payment? Here Are Simple Money Habits That Actually Help You Save for Your First Home with Paige Pritchard
Your First Home
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Your First Home
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Hidden Costs of Buying a New Home - What You Need to Know About New Homes vs. Existing with Andrea Ruiz
Your First Home
Let’s demystify building a new home vs. purchasing resale (without the surprises, costly upgrades, or “wish we’d known” regrets) with today’s guest and Houston new construction expert, Andrea Ruiz. If you’re deciding between building from dirt or moving into something that’s already finished, this episode walks you through everything from timelines, inspections, warranties, financing incentives, taxes, HOAs, and the subtle red flags most first-time buyers miss. You’ll leave knowing exactly how to compare builders, when a “deal” isn’t a deal, and how to protect your budget...
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Your First Home
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Can you realistically buy a house solo? with Lily Wyss
Your First Home
Buying a home solo comes with unique questions, especially around what you can truly afford. In this episode, I sit down with Portland agent and two-time solo homeowner Lily Wyss to break down the real-life steps she used to buy her first condo at 23, build equity, and level up into a home she loves, without feeling house poor. We get practical about monthly payments, lender consults, emergency funds, and how to choose the right first property (even if it’s a stepping-stone). In This Episode, You Will Learn Tell the difference between what you’re qualified for vs. what you can...
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Don't Buy A House Until You Know About These Red Flags with Home Inspector Vince Tecce
Your First Home
If you’ve ever wondered what to really look for during a home tour, or what red flags could cost you thousands after closing, this episode is for you. I’m joined by home inspector Vince Tecce. He inspected both of my own homes and countless client properties, and today he’s sharing insider advice that every first-time buyer should hear before making an offer. From spotting hidden water damage and understanding roof issues to knowing when to walk away after an inspection, this episode gives you the tools and confidence to make informed decisions without second guessing yourself. In...
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How do you know if you're REALLY ready to buy a house?
Your First Home
How do you actually know if you’re ready to buy your first home? In this kickoff episode of Your First Home Podcast, I’ll walk you through six must-check boxes that every future homeowner needs to confidently say “I’m ready.” From understanding your “why” behind buying a home to evaluating your finances, credit, debt, and income stability, you’ll learn what it really takes to make one of the biggest financial moves of your life without the overwhelm. If you’ve ever wondered whether now is the right time to buy, or how to know when you’re truly ready, this episode is your...
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Welcome to Your First Home podcast!
Your First Home
Welcome to Your First Home Podcast - I’m your host and homebuying expert Stacie Rihl and I’ve spent the last 8 years helping first-time homebuyers like you make their dreams of owning a home reality. Buckle up, because we’re about to demystify the process and learn everything we should have been taught in school about the biggest and most exciting purchase you’ll ever make. Your first home.
info_outlineWhat does it really take to save for your first home, especially when it means paying off debt, saying no to short-term temptations, and making a major life move? In this episode, I’m joined by first-time homebuyer and money coach Nick Loera, who spent nearly five years paying off debt, building savings, relocating from California to Texas, and renovating his new home almost entirely by hand. Nick shares the financial habits that help you stay consistent, the conversations couples need to have before buying together, and why saving is as much about mindset as it is about math. Get ready to feel prepared and motivated to create your own roadmap to homeownership.
In This Episode, You Will Learn
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Why long-term saving is normal and how to stay focused when progress feels slow.
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The money habits that help you pay off debt and build savings at the same time.
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What renovating a home really requires.
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How to decide whether buying or renting makes sense in your current season of life.
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Exercise to align with your partner on wants, needs, and deal-breakers.
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How to avoid comparison and second-guessing once you’re under contract.
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How to choose your ideal down payment.
Resources + Links
Listen to Just Another Money Podcast HERE
Get Your FREE Homebuying Masterclass HERE
Follow
Instagram: @iamstacierihl
Website: stacierihl.com
Nick: @habitfinances
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