Getting Started on Your Journey
The Essential First Steps
Check Your Credit Score
Review your credit report and score to understand your financing options
Determine Your Budget
Calculate how much home you can afford based on income and expenses
Save for Down Payment
Start building your down payment fund (3-20% of home price)
Get Pre-Approved
Secure mortgage pre-approval to strengthen your offers
Your Home Buying Timeline
From Start to Keys in Hand
Financial Readiness
- • Check and improve credit score
- • Calculate affordability
- • Research loan programs
- • Start saving for down payment
Focus on strengthening your financial position
Get Qualified
- • Gather financial documents
- • Apply for pre-approval
- • Compare lender offers
- • Choose your loan program
Secure your financing before house hunting
Find Your Home
- • Define your needs and wants
- • Research neighborhoods
- • Tour homes
- • Make competitive offers
Take your time to find the right home
Closing Process
- • Home inspection
- • Appraisal
- • Final loan approval
- • Closing preparation
30-45 days from offer to closing
Financial Preparation Checklist
Get Your Finances Home-Ready
Down Payment Options
Conventional Loans
As little as 3% down for qualified buyers
FHA Loans
3.5% down with flexible credit requirements
VA Loans
0% down for eligible veterans
Down Payment Assistance
State and local programs available
Closing Costs
Typical Range
2-5% of purchase price
Lender Fees
Origination, processing, underwriting
Third-Party Fees
Appraisal, inspection, title insurance
Prepaid Items
Property taxes, insurance, interest
Reserve Requirements
Emergency Fund
3-6 months of mortgage payments
Maintenance Reserve
1-3% of home value annually
Moving Expenses
Professional movers or DIY costs
Initial Repairs
Budget for immediate needs
Pro Tip: Start preparing your finances at least 6 months before you plan to buy. This gives you time to improve your credit score and save for your down payment and closing costs.
First-Time Buyer Loan Programs
Special Programs Designed for You
FHA Loans
- 3.5% minimum down payment
- Credit scores from 580+
- Gift funds allowed for down payment
- Seller can pay closing costs
Best for: Buyers with limited savings or credit challenges
VA Loans
- No down payment required
- No mortgage insurance
- Competitive interest rates
- No prepayment penalties
Best for: Veterans, active military, and eligible spouses
USDA Loans
- 0% down payment
- Lower mortgage insurance
- Below-market interest rates
- Can finance closing costs
Best for: Rural and suburban homebuyers
Conventional 97
- Only 3% down required
- No upfront mortgage insurance
- Can cancel PMI at 20% equity
- Flexible seller concessions
Best for: Buyers with good credit and stable income
State & Local Programs
- Down payment assistance
- Closing cost grants
- Tax credits available
- Below-market rates
Best for: Income-qualified first-time buyers
Good Neighbor Next Door
- 50% discount on HUD homes
- For teachers, firefighters, EMTs, police
- Must live in home 3+ years
- Available in revitalization areas
Best for: Eligible public servants
Not sure which program is right for you? Our mortgage experts can help you explore all your options.
Get Expert GuidancePre-Purchase Checklist
Don't Miss These Important Steps
Before You Shop
During House Hunting
Making an Offer
After Offer Acceptance
Before Closing
Ready to move forward? Check out our competitive mortgage rates and find the perfect loan option for your first home.
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Let our expert team guide you through every step of your home buying journey with personalized support and exclusive first-time buyer programs.
Your journey to homeownership starts with a single step. Let us guide you every step of the way.