In this July 2025 video, I sit down with Natalie Salins from Movement Mortgage and we bust five homebuying myths I hear constantly from buyers in Los Angeles. If you’ve been stuck in analysis paralysis because TikTok, headlines, or well-meaning friends told you “the rules,” this is the straight-talk reset. We break down what’s actually happening with down payments, rates, credit, grant programs, and the very real insurance conversation in California. We talk through the big one first: no, you do not automatically need 20% down to buy in LA. We also unpack how down payment assistance and grants really work (and who they’re best for), why “waiting for rates to drop” can backfire, and what options exist if you don’t have a traditional credit score or you’ve had credit issues in the past. And yes—homeowners insurance is part of the strategy now, not an afterthought. My biggest takeaway: buyer hesitation is often driven by myths, not reality. If you’re a buyer, you may be more qualified than you think. If you’re a seller, understanding these misconceptions helps you anticipate objections and position your home correctly—priced right and marketed strategically, homes are still selling in this shifting market.