Home Buying and Selling Tips for Families, from Heidi Nemitz, a Local Realtor

This article kicks off a short educational series focused on helping families feel more prepared and informed when buying or selling a home. If you’ve ever felt unsure where to start — whether that’s preparing financially, understanding the market, or knowing what to avoid — you’re not alone.

With 18 years of experience in the Reedsburg area, local realtor Heidi Nemitz shares practical insight to help families feel confident before the process even begins. Heidi truly loves what she does because it allows her to help people find their first home, their next home, or the perfect place to start a new chapter. What she enjoys most is building relationships and meeting new people along the way.

Born and raised in Reedsburg, Heidi is proud to continue working in the community she calls home (the same place where she raised her two adult sons). Helping others plant roots here is what makes this career so rewarding for her.

Heidi has worked with Gavin Bros. for all 18 years of her career, a longevity that reflects both her experience and commitment to the local market.

Whether you’re getting ready to buy, preparing to sell, or just starting to think about what’s next, Heidi shares a few practical tips below to help families approach the process with confidence.

Helpful Tips for Buyers

For families preparing to buy a home, Heidi encourages starting with a strong foundation.

Get pre-approved early. This helps you understand your budget and makes your offer stronger.
Focus on needs vs. wants. Know your must-haves and where you can be flexible.
Think long-term. Consider resale value, location, and how the home fits your future plans.

Things to Avoid Right Before Buying a Home

There are a few common missteps that can delay or complicate the buying process. Heidi often reminds buyers to avoid the following in the months leading up to a purchase:

Don’t open new credit (cars, furniture, credit cards). Even “0% interest” offers can hurt your buying power.
Avoid large purchases or big cash deposits. Lenders need a clear paper trail.
Don’t change jobs (or income type) if you can help it — stability matters.
Don’t miss or make late payments. Even one can impact loan approval.
Avoid draining savings. You’ll need funds for closing costs, inspections, and reserves.
Don’t rely on online estimates alone. Every home and market is different.

Helpful Tips for Sellers

When it comes to selling, preparation and strategy make a big difference.

First impressions matter. Clean, declutter, and make small updates for big impact.
Price it right from the start. Correct pricing attracts more buyers and stronger offers.
Be flexible with showings. More access equals more opportunity.
Listen to professional advice. Market knowledge matters more than emotion.
Plan your next step early. Know where you’re going before you sell.

Helpful Tips to Start Early

Even if buying or selling still feels far off, early preparation can make the process smoother and less stressful.

Talk to a lender early, even if you’re “just looking.”
Create a budget that includes more than just the mortgage.
Start saving now — a little consistently goes a long way.
Have a trusted agent involved early to help guide timing and expectations.

One Piece of Advice for Families Starting the Process

If Heidi had to give families one piece of advice before starting the home-buying or selling process, it would be this:

Don’t try to do it alone — start the conversation early with the right professionals.

Even if you’re “just thinking about it,” talking with a trusted real estate agent and lender early helps families understand their options, timing, and budget before emotions or pressure step in. A little guidance on the front end can prevent costly mistakes, reduce stress, and make the entire experience feel far more confident and manageable.

This article is part one of a three-part series with Heidi Nemitz, where we’ll continue to break down common questions families have about buying and selling a home.

If there’s a topic you’d like us to cover or a question you’d like answered in one of her future posts, feel free to send me a message.