This case study explores the decision-making process of whether to engage a real estate agent or a lender first when starting the home-buying journey. It examines the advantages and drawbacks of each approach, including insights on market guidance, financial pre-approval, and team collaboration. By analyzing the experiences of first-time buyers, the study emphasizes the importance of understanding budget constraints early and fostering effective communication between agents and lenders. Ultimately, the findings suggest that combining both strategies can streamline the process, reduce stress, and lead to a successful home purchase.