There's nothing like a Saturday at Kroger Field. With new head coach Will Stein on the sideline this season, the Cats are drawing up a fresh playbook, and every big win starts with preparation long before kickoff. Buying a home works the same way.

Whether you're tailgating in Lexington, cheering from Louisville, or watching every snap from Bowling Green, here's my game plan for buying a home in Kentucky. Go Wildcats! 💙

I'm Parker Stein, a mortgage broker licensed in Kentucky.

1. Study the film: scout your budget

Every good team breaks down film before game day. Before you tour homes, get clear on:

• What monthly payment feels comfortable, not just what you might qualify for
• Your savings for the down payment, closing costs and a cushion for life's surprises
• Your debts, like car loans, student loans and credit cards

Knowing your numbers keeps you from calling an audible on a house that doesn't fit your budget.

2. Win the coin toss: get pre-approved

You want the ball first. A pre-approval shows sellers you're a serious buyer and tells you what price range makes sense. In a competitive market, it can be the difference between scoring the house and watching from the sideline.

3. Build your depth chart

Championship teams are deep at every position. Your home-buying roster should include:

• A local real estate agent, your quarterback, who knows Lexington and the surrounding neighborhoods
• A mortgage broker, your offensive coordinator, who compares options from many lenders, not just one bank
• A home inspector, your film room, who spots what's really going on behind the walls

4. Pick the right play: loan options

There's more than one way to move the chains. FHA, conventional, VA and USDA loans each have their own guidelines, and the right call depends on your credit, income, savings and where you're buying. As your broker, I'll help you pick the play that fits your situation.

5. Protect the lead: finish strong at closing

Games are won in the fourth quarter. Between your accepted offer and closing day:

• Don't open new credit or finance big purchases. No turnovers.
• Keep your job and income steady if you can
• Answer document requests quickly so you don't stall in the red zone

Then you cross the goal line with the keys in hand, and maybe a new spot to host watch parties.

Ready for kickoff?

Whether it's your first home or your next one, let's draw up your game plan. Start a free review for Kentucky. It takes about a minute, and there's no obligation:

👉 Start your free Kentucky review

Or visit my Kentucky first-time buyer page, or call or text me at (505) 644-2973.

Go Cats! 🏈

Just a fan. This post is not affiliated with or endorsed by the University of Kentucky or its athletics program.