Stage 1: Preparing the Soil

Laying the Foundation 

for Future Homeownership

Every Good Harvest Begins

 Below the Surface

Before a tree grows tall or bears fruit, the soil must be prepared.

In the same way, homeownership doesn’t begin with house hunting or paperwork. It begins quietly — with preparation, intention, and patience.

If you’re renting, unsure if you qualify, or feeling discouraged about where you stand financially, this stage is for you.

You are not behind.
You are planting.

 "But the seed in the good soil, these are the ones who have heard the word in an honest and good heart, and hold it fast, and bear fruit with perseverance".
 Luke 8:15

What “Preparing the Soil” Really Means

Preparing the soil doesn’t require perfection. It requires honesty and consistency.

This stage is about creating the conditions that allow growth to happen when the time is right.

 Steady Income: Building Reliability

Lenders value consistency more than perfection. A steady job history — even without a high income — helps establish confidence in your ability to manage a monthly housing payment.

This stage focuses on:

• Staying consistent with employment
• Understanding how income is viewed for homeownership
• Avoiding unnecessary job changes when possible

Steady ground allows roots to take hold.

 Credit: Tending What Already Exists

Your credit score is not your character. It’s simply a record.

In this stage, the goal isn’t a perfect score — it’s progress.

That may include:

• Making on-time payments consistently
• Reducing balances when possible
• Avoiding unnecessary new debt
• Understanding what actually impacts your score

Even small improvements can strengthen the soil.

 Managing Debt: Making Room to Grow

Too much weight on a young plant can limit growth. The same is true financially.

This stage is about:

• Understanding monthly obligations
• Creating breathing room in your budget
• Avoiding new debt that could slow progress

Reducing strain creates space for future growth.

 Saving: Planting Seeds for the Future

Saving is one of the clearest signs of preparation.

Whether it’s for:

• A future down payment
• Closing costs
• Or a small cushion after buying

Saving consistently — even in small amounts — builds confidence and peace of mind.

You don’t have to save everything today.
Seeds grow best when planted steadily.

 A Plan: Turning Uncertainty

 Into Direction

Preparation brings peace.

Having a simple, clear plan helps you focus on what matters now instead of worrying about everything at once.

A good plan answers:

• What should I focus on first?
• What can wait?
• What progress would make the biggest difference right now?

A plan doesn’t rush the season — it respects it.

 This Stage Is Not a Delay

In nature, the most important work happens underground.

Roots grow before branches. Strength develops before fruit.

If you’re in this stage, you are doing meaningful work — even if no one else can see it yet.

 Gentle Next Step

Not sure what to focus on first?

Let’s Talk About Your Soil 

Call or Text 970-829-2437

You don’t need to figure it out alone

No pressure. No obligation. Just clarity, encouragement, and an honest look at your next best step.