Buying your first home can feel like trying to juggle three big goals at once: paying student loans, building savings, and still having a life. The good news is you don’t need a perfect income or a huge bank account to get started; you just need a clear plan that fits where you are right now.

1. Start by knowing your real numbers

List your take-home pay, your minimum student loan payments, your rent, and what you spend on basics like food, gas, and phone. Then, look at what’s left and decide on a realistic monthly amount for a future down payment. Even if it’s small, picking an amount and treating it like a bill builds powerful momentum.

2. Make student loans part of the plan

Many first-time buyers think they have to wipe out student loans before they can own a home, but that’s rarely necessary. Instead, focus on staying current, avoiding late payments, and exploring income-driven repayment if your budget is tight. On-time payments help your credit profile, which matters when you’re ready to apply for a mortgage.

3. Use a side hustle to create a “down payment only” stream

If you drive for a rideshare, tutor online, walk dogs, or do freelance work, try dedicating that extra income entirely to your future home fund. Having a separate savings account just for the down payment can keep you from accidentally spending it. Even a few hundred a month from a side hustle can add up quickly over a couple of years.

4. Add protection with the right insurance along the way

As your income grows with side gigs, it can be tempting to skip renters insurance or skimp on auto coverage, but that can backfire. One accident, fire, or theft could wipe out the savings you’re working so hard to build. Maintaining solid renters and auto insurance, and reviewing your health insurance options during open enrollment, helps shield your budget and keeps your down payment fund on track.

5. Build a starter emergency cushion 

Aim for at least one month of essential expenses in a basic savings account before you get too aggressive with your down payment goal. This safety net means a car repair, medical bill, or short gap in work doesn’t force you to raid the money you’ve set aside for your future home.

6. Clean up your credit gently

You don’t have to chase a “perfect” score. Focus on paying every bill on time, keeping credit card balances low, and avoiding opening a lot of new accounts. Small steps, like setting up automatic payments, help you look more reliable to lenders when you’re ready.

Balancing side hustles, student loans, and saving for a down payment is less about perfection and more about steady, thoughtful progress. When you give each part of your financial life a clear role, the idea of owning a home shifts from a distant dream to a practical, step-by-step plan you can actually follow.