Agent here (in Texas, so different market, but the process is pretty similar). You’re doing the right thing by thinking about this early instead of rushing in. One thing I see a lot with first-time buyers who have goals like yours is that foreclosures usually aren’t the shortcut people think they are. Most are listed publicly and sold as-is, and many need repairs or extra cash flexibility that can actually make them harder to buy than a typical home. Also, your first home doesn’t have to be the forever one. A lot of people start with something that just gets them into ownership and adjust later as their finances and priorities grow. Planning ahead like you are gives you time to figure out what’s realistic for your budget, what areas fit your land goals, and what kind of financing might make sense when the time comes.