5 Decisive Questions To Ask Your Significant Other Before Buying a House Together

Are you ready to buy a home with your significant other?

Before jumping into renovations, mortgages, and move-ins, make sure you're aligned on key questions. These conversations today can save you from big surprises (and stress) later.

As your trusted real estate advisor, I, Daniella Miller, REALTOR®, serving Norman, Moore, and OKC areas, am here to guide you toward smart, collaborative decisions that strengthen your partnership—both personally and financially.

1. Where Do We Want to Live?

Location shapes lifestyle—and your future. Do you envision suburban calm or urban buzz? Is proximity to work, family, or community priorities? Nail down your shared vision early to streamline your search and avoid unnecessary compromises.

2. Are We Financially Transparent—and Aligned?

Talk openly about income, savings, debts, credit, and financial red flags. Your collective financial picture influences home affordability and mortgage eligibility. Remember: honesty now avoids surprises later.

3. What's Our Budget—and How Will We Split Costs?

Set a realistic budget that covers mortgage, property taxes, insurance, closing costs, utilities, and maintenance. Decide how you’ll share these costs—50/50, percentage-based, or something more creative. Clarity here keeps harmony intact.

4. Who's on the Loan and Title—and What’s Our Agreement?

There are important choices here:

• Mortgage application: Will you apply jointly or will one partner’s score and income carry the loan?

• Title options: Joint tenancy (equal ownership, with survivorship rights) or tenancy in common (unequal shares, separate inheritance)?

• Legal safeguards: For unmarried couples—consider a cohabitation agreement or declaration of trust to define contributions and exit strategies.

5. Are We Prepared for What Could Go Wrong?

Life happens—job changes, emergencies, or even relationship shifts. Have an emergency fund, a fallback payment plan, and an exit strategy in writing. A mindset grounded in preparedness protects your relationship and your investment.

FAQs

1. What if one of us has better credit—should only one person apply?
Maybe. Sometimes, applying under the stronger credit score yields better mortgage rates. However, the other partner can still be added to the title—just ask for legal and financial advice.

2. Do we always need a cohabitation agreement?
Not always, but it’s strongly recommended—especially for unmarried couples—to clarify ownership, responsibilities, and separation plans.

3. Is it better to buy a long-term home or a starter house?
Reflect together on your timeline. Are you building equity for the long haul or preparing to move again soon? Your vision shapes your budget and location decisions.

4. How can we maintain open communication throughout this?
Schedule check-ins, use shared budgeting tools, and be open to revisiting agreements as your life changes. Transparency builds trust.

5. Do we need to live together before buying?
While not required, many couples benefit from cohabiting beforehand to understand daily habits, finances, and compatibility.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home with your significant other is a chapter you write together. By asking these five decisive questions—about location, finances, budgeting, ownership structure, and contingency plans—you build a foundation of trust, transparency, and resilience.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Let’s walk this path together. Schedule a consultation today, and I’ll help you navigate the house-hunting process with clarity, communication, and care.

Daniella Miller Real Estate Agent
Call me or text me: 405-413-9802
Email: daniellamiller@kw.com
Find you a home in Oklahoma