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Ian DeFelice

Indianapolis First-Time Homebuyer Guide

Your first home, with a real plan.

I help renters in Indianapolis create a clear plan so they can buy their first home with confidence.

Take the free 2-minute assessment.

Neighborhoods served: Broad Ripple, SoBro, Meridian-Kessler, Butler-Tarkington, Nora, Crow's Nest, Glendale, Carmel, Westfield, Fishers, Noblesville, Zionsville, Whitestown, Irvington, Fountain Square, Eagle Creek, Speedway
Ian with his family
Ian with his dogs

For First Time Buyers

A path designed by a realtor who was once in your shoes.

Five years ago, I was the renter nodding along while someone explained escrow. I read my pre-approval letter eight times trying to figure out what DTI meant. I know how confusing the process can feel when no one slows down to explain it.

The Blueprint is what I wish I'd had: a real plan, no pressure to rush into the wrong house, and a guide who remembers what it feels like to be on your side of the table.

  • Specialty
    First-time buyers
  • Brokerage
    Roots Realty · @properties
  • Where
    Indianapolis metro
Read my full story

How it works

Assessment. Plan. Buy.

From first questions to keys in hand, here's the simple path we'll follow together.

  1. Step 01

    Take the assessment

    2-3 minutes to finish. You'll see exactly where your savings, timing, and knowledge actually sit.

    Start your plan
  2. Step 02

    Build a plan

    We'll meet over coffee, talk through your goals, connect you with a first-time-buyer-friendly lender, and clarify your needs vs. wants before the search begins.

    See how it works
  3. Step 03

    Buy with confidence

    Touring, offers, inspection, closing. The pace fits you, not the calendar.

    Start the conversation
Ian DeFelice
He pushed patience and for us to be on the same page so we were confident with our decision.
Miles Tracy · See review →

Real plans, real buyers

Here's what the path actually looks like.

TJ & Elizabeth

Purchased a long-term family home in Broad Ripple that fit both their lifestyle and future goals.

  • Entering a new season after having their first child — looking for a 7-10 year home.
  • Loved Broad Ripple but needed yard, garage, home office, and a basement.
  • Found a home within a month that checked every box, including the basement.
Read their story

Brandon & Rebecca

Avoided rushing into the wrong home and purchased one that truly fit their future.

  • Reached out almost a year before they were ready to buy.
  • Built a plan around budget, timeline, and long-term goals while they finished their lease.
  • Found a Northside home with space to grow and confidence in the decision.
Read their story

Grant & Katie

Purchased a walkable downtown home with rental income that helps offset their monthly payment.

  • Referred by a past client and financially ready — just needed clarity on what they wanted.
  • Toured a few that didn't fit, then moved quickly when the right home hit in March.
  • Bought a walkable downtown home with a carriage house that helps offset the mortgage.
Read their story

From the feed

Catch me around Indy.

Reels, walk-throughs, neighborhood notes, and the occasional cup of coffee.

@iandefelice
iandefelice
Indianapolis, IN

iandefeliceReal estate is a LONG game. Don’t expect to buy a home today, sell it 2 years from now, and make a ton of money. But if you plan on living in the Indianapolis area for at least 3-4+ years, you should consider what you’re leaving on the table. If you want to be intentional with your homeownership goals, start with building a plan. Comment “PLAN” to start your journey 🏡

View on Instagram · 1 day ago
iandefelice
Indianapolis, IN

iandefeliceI didn’t choose real estate because it was the safest path. I chose it because I genuinely love the work. The people. The stories. The relationships. The moment someone goes from feeling stuck to finally feeling like they have a place of their own. Money matters, but it has never been the main driver for me. And years later, I’m still grateful I chose the path that felt right. “To whom much is given, much is expected”

View on Instagram · 1 day ago
iandefelice
Indianapolis, IN

iandefeliceSome of the best coffee in the world. Literally. If you’re near Garfield Park, stop in for a world class cup ☕️ #indycoffee #indianapoliscoffee #indy #indianapolissmallbusiness

View on Instagram · 4 days ago
iandefelice
Indianapolis, IN

iandefeliceDay 16! Over halfway through this journey of focusing on beauty. I can already see the difference in my daily rhythms and mindspace. I love seeing all of you who are on this journey with me! Let’s keep our minds focused on the good ♥️ #beautyinindy

View on Instagram · 1 week ago

Free · 2 minutes

Are you ready to buy your first home?

23 short questions on your savings, timeline, and goals. You'll get a personal readiness score and a clear next step. No pressure, no spam.

23
Questions
2–3
Minutes
100%
Free
Start your plan