Thinking About Buying a Home in Wicomico County? Here’s Where to Start

If you’ve been thinking about buying a home — whether it’s your very first place, your next chapter, or a move toward the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming about — you’re not alone. A lot of people here in Wicomico County and across Maryland’s Eastern Shore start the homebuying process the same way: browsing online, scrolling through listings, wondering what’s possible, and asking…

“Where do I even start?”
“Can I really afford a home right now?”
“What’s the first actual step I should take?”

If that sounds familiar, you’re in the right place. My goal with this Buyer Series is to make the process feel clear, manageable, and not overwhelming, so you can move forward with confidence instead of stress.

⭐️ Step 1: Get Clear on Your Starting Point

Before looking at homes, it helps to understand your financial picture. You don’t need everything perfect — you just need a direction.

Most buyers start by:
✔️ taking a look at their income, monthly expenses, and budget
✔️ thinking about what a comfortable monthly payment might be
✔️ considering whether they’ll be using savings, down payment assistance, VA or FHA financing, etc.

You don’t need the full answer yet — just awareness. The next step helps lock it in.

⭐️ Step 2: Talk to a Lender & Get Pre-Approved

This is one of the most important early steps. A pre-approval:

• tells you what you can buy

• helps you understand your payment & down payment options

• makes you a stronger buyer when you find “the one”

A lot of people are nervous to talk to a lender because they worry:

“What if I’m not ready?”

Truth is, that’s exactly why you should talk to a lender. They’ll help you understand what’s possible now and what to work toward if you’re not quite there yet.

⭐️ Step 3: Connect with a Local REALTOR® Early

Even if you’re months away from buying, getting guidance early can save you a LOT of time and stress. A good agent helps you:

• understand the local market

• get clear on expectations

• avoid common mistakes

• create a smart plan, not a rushed one

And here’s the key:
👉 There’s no pressure and no obligation just to have a conversation.

Sometimes the best first step is simply asking questions and getting honest answers.

⭐️ Step 4: Start Looking with Intention

This is where things get exciting — but also where many buyers feel overwhelmed. Instead of looking at everything, get focused on:

• location & lifestyle

• must-have features vs nice extras

• what truly matters to you in day-to-day life

Homes on Maryland’s Eastern Shore come in all shapes, sizes, and styles — waterfront possibilities, peaceful neighborhoods, country scenery, family-friendly communities, and everything in between. There’s something here for everyone… it just takes a plan.

⭐️ Step 5: Breathe — You Don’t Have to Rush

Every buyer’s journey is different. Some people are ready right now. Others are planning ahead. Either way, the best place to start is simply having someone in your corner who will guide you, explain things clearly, and help make the next step feel easier.

💬 Ready to Explore Buying a Home?

Whether you’re ready soon or just starting to think about it, I’m here to help however I can — answer questions, connect you with trusted lenders, walk you through the process, and help you feel confident about your next move.

Whenever you’re ready, I’d be happy to talk.

– Shawn Long
ERA Martin Associates | Shawn Sells Delmarva
Serving Wicomico County & Maryland’s Eastern Shore