A first time home buyer should begin by reviewing credit, building a realistic housing budget, estimating total cash needs, and comparing mortgage programs before touring homes.
The full process usually includes preapproval, choosing a real estate agent, house hunting, making an offer, completing the inspection and appraisal, comparing Loan Estimates, satisfying underwriting conditions, and reviewing the Closing Disclosure before signing. This roadmap explains each stage and the decisions that matter most.
Key Takeways Many mortgage programs do not require a 20% down payment. Some conventional programs permit as little as 3% down, while eligible FHA financing may require 3.5%. Eligible VA and USDA borrowers may have no-down-payment options. First-time buyer assistance may help with a down payment or closing costs, but availability and repayment terms vary. A lender’s maximum approval amount is not necessarily a comfortable personal budget. Preapproval can help you shop within a realistic range, but it is not a guarantee of final loan approval. A home inspection and appraisal serve different purposes, and buyers commonly need both. Comparing official Loan Estimates is more useful than comparing advertised rates alone. First-time homeowners should maintain emergency savings for repairs, insurance changes, taxes, and ongoing maintenance. Important Note: Mortgage programs, rates, APRs, fees, credits, down payment requirements, assistance, credit standards, income limits, property rules, and eligibility vary by borrower, lender, property, location, occupancy, underwriting, and investor guidelines. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a commitment to lend.
Who Qualifies as a First-Time Home Buyer? A first-time home buyer is not always someone who has never owned real estate.
For many conventional mortgage programs, an individual may be considered a first-time buyer when they:
Are purchasing the property Intend to occupy it as a principal residence Have not held an ownership interest in a residential property during the previous three years Fannie Mae uses this three-year definition for its first-time homebuyer classification. Program-specific exceptions or additional requirements may apply. (selling-guide.fanniemae.com )
This means you may qualify again as a first-time buyer even if you owned a home more than three years ago.
First-Time Buyer Status Depends on the Program The definition may differ among:
Conventional mortgage programs State housing finance agencies Local down payment assistance programs Employer-assisted housing programs Tax or grant programs Community-based homeownership initiatives Do not assume that qualifying as a first-time buyer for one program automatically qualifies you for every other program.
Are You Ready to Buy Your First Home? Being able to qualify for a mortgage is only one part of being ready to buy.
Homeownership may be more manageable when you have:
Stable, documentable income A plan to remain in the area Manageable monthly debts Funds for the down payment and closing costs Savings that will remain after closing Room in your budget for repairs and maintenance A clear reason for purchasing Realistic expectations about the home and neighborhood HUD recommends that prospective buyers evaluate affordability using income, credit, current monthly expenses, down payment funds, and mortgage terms. (hud.gov )
Buying May Not Be the Right Next Step Yet It may make sense to prepare longer when:
Your employment or income is likely to change soon. You expect to relocate in the near future. Your monthly debts leave little room for housing costs. The purchase would use nearly all your available savings. You have unresolved credit-report errors. You are relying on a future raise, bonus, gift, or property sale that has not occurred. You do not have a plan for repairs or emergency expenses. Waiting is not failure. Additional preparation can help you pursue a home with a more sustainable budget.
First-Time Buyer Roadmap at a Glance The roadmap below summarizes the homebuying process into 12 key stages. The detailed guide that follows breaks some stages into separate steps for greater clarity.
Step
What to do
1 Define your goals and personal budget 2 Review credit, income, debts, and savings 3 Research assistance and education programs 4 Compare mortgage types 5 Get preapproved 6 Build your homebuying team 7 Search for homes within your complete budget 8 Make an offer with appropriate protections 9 Complete the inspection and appraisal 10 Compare Loan Estimates and select financing 11 Respond to processing and underwriting 12 Review closing documents and receive the keys
The process may not move in a perfectly straight line. You may revisit the budget, lender, loan type, or property search as new information becomes available.
Step 1: Define Your Homeownership Goals Before calculating a purchase price, identify what you need the home to accomplish.
Consider:
How long you expect to live there Your commute and transportation needs School, childcare, or family considerations Number of bedrooms and bathrooms Accessibility needs Yard and maintenance preferences HOA restrictions Property-tax differences Future household changes Whether you are comfortable with repairs Separate your list into three categories:
Must Have Features that directly affect whether the home can work for your household.
Examples:
Required location Minimum number of bedrooms Accessibility Acceptable commute Property type Safety or occupancy needs Nice to Have Features you value but could compromise on.
Examples:
Updated kitchen Larger yard Additional garage space Newer construction Specific flooring Community amenities Deal Breakers Conditions that would make the property unsuitable.
Examples:
Unaffordable HOA dues Major structural concerns Unacceptable flood or insurance exposure Rental restrictions Unpermitted additions Excessive commute Lack of required accessibility A clear priority list helps prevent emotional decisions during house hunting.
Step 2: Build a Complete Homeownership Budget Your housing budget should include more than mortgage principal and interest.
The complete monthly cost may include:
Principal and interest Property taxes Homeowners insurance Mortgage insurance HOA dues Flood insurance when required Utilities Maintenance Pest control Landscaping Repairs Parking or community fees The CFPB advises homebuyers to evaluate the full monthly payment and upfront costs rather than focusing only on the home price or advertised mortgage payment. (consumerfinance.gov )
Approval Amount vs. Comfortable Budget A lender determines how much you may qualify to borrow under its underwriting requirements.
Your comfortable budget should also account for expenses the lender may not fully include, such as:
Childcare Food Transportation Medical costs Retirement contributions Travel Family support Future education expenses Home repairs Emergency savings You do not have to purchase at the maximum amount shown on a preapproval letter.
→ Read more: How Do I Calculate My Mortgage Payment? (Step-by-Step + Calculator)
Estimate Your Upfront Cash Needs Prepare for several possible expense categories:
Expense
When it may be paid
Earnest-money deposit After an offer is accepted Inspection During the contract period Appraisal After the mortgage application proceeds Down payment At closing Closing costs At or before closing Prepaid taxes and insurance At closing Initial escrow deposit At closing Moving and immediate repairs After closing
The down payment is only one part of the total cash needed.
Step 3: Review Your Credit Before Applying Your credit profile can affect mortgage eligibility, pricing, mortgage insurance, and available loan programs.
Review your credit reports for:
Accounts that are not yours Incorrect late payments Duplicate debts Outdated balances Incorrect personal information Fraudulent activity Collection accounts Recently opened credit The CFPB recommends checking credit, saving for a down payment, and preparing to compare mortgage options before beginning the purchase process. (consumerfinance.gov )
First-Time Buyer Credit Tips Pay every bill on time. Keep revolving balances manageable. Avoid opening unnecessary accounts before applying. Do not close long-standing accounts solely to prepare for a mortgage. Dispute legitimate reporting errors early. Tell the Loan Officer about major credit events. Avoid financing a car, furniture, or appliances during underwriting. Do not assume that one credit score seen through a consumer app will equal the mortgage score used by a lender. There is no single credit score that guarantees mortgage approval. The result also depends on income, debts, assets, property, loan type, and underwriting.
→ Read more: Can I Get a Home Loan With No Credit Score? Mortgage Options for No-Score Buyers
Step 4: Organize Your Income and Financial Documents A lender generally reviews your income, employment, assets, debts, and source of funds.
Common documents may include:
Identity and Employment Government-issued identification Social Security number Employment history Employer contact information Offer letter or employment contract when applicable Income Recent pay stubs W-2 forms 1099 forms Tax returns when required Self-employment records Benefit or retirement letters Rental-income documentation Bonus, overtime, or commission records Assets and Funds Bank statements Investment statements Retirement-account statements Gift-fund documentation Assistance-program records Evidence supporting large deposits Earnest-money documentation Debts and Housing Current mortgage statements Student loan information Auto and personal loan statements Support obligations Current lease or housing history Information about other real estate owned Prepare complete, readable documents and retain a clear paper trail when transferring money between accounts.
For a deeper checklist, review documents needed for first-time home buyers before starting a preapproval or full mortgage application.
Step 5: Research Help for First-Time Home Buyers Many first-time home buyers can consider more than one source of assistance.
Programs may help with:
Down payment Closing costs Reduced mortgage insurance Homebuyer education Deferred-payment second mortgages Forgivable assistance Grants Employer-assisted housing Mortgage Credit Certificates where available The CFPB notes that state and local organizations may offer down payment or closing-cost programs and recommends contacting a HUD-approved housing counseling agency to identify local resources. (consumerfinance.gov )
Assistance Is Not Always Free Money Before accepting assistance, ask:
Is it a grant or a loan? Is repayment required? Is the assistance forgiven over time? What happens if I sell? What happens if I refinance? Is there a second lien on the property? Are income limits based on the borrower or household? Is there a purchase-price limit? Must I use an approved lender? Is homebuyer education required? Is funding currently available? A program described as “forgiven” may still require repayment when the home is sold, refinanced, transferred, or no longer used as a principal residence.
→ Read more: State & Local Down Payment Assistance Programs for Homebuyers
Step 6: Compare First-Time Home Buyer Loan Options A first-time buyer does not need a mortgage labeled specifically as a “first-time home buyer loan.”
You may qualify for conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, state housing agency, or lender-specific financing.
Loan option
Potential down payment
Who may consider it
Conventional As low as 3% through eligible programs Buyers with qualifying credit, income, and property FHA As low as 3.5% with eligible maximum financing Buyers who may benefit from FHA’s credit framework VA No down payment may be available Eligible Veterans, service members, and surviving spouses USDA Guaranteed Up to 100% financing may be available Eligible households buying in qualifying rural areas State or local program Varies Buyers meeting location, income, purchase-price, or occupation rules Jumbo or Non-QM Varies Buyers with larger loan needs or nontraditional documentation
The CFPB recommends comparing conventional and government-backed programs rather than assuming one loan type is right for every first-time buyer. (consumerfinance.gov )
Some conventional programs permit as little as 3% down.
Examples may include:
Fannie Mae Standard 97% LTV Fannie Mae HomeReady Freddie Mac HomeOne Freddie Mac Home Possible Some require first-time buyer status, income limits, homebuyer education, or a specific property type.
FHA-insured financing may allow an eligible borrower to make a down payment as low as 3.5%.
FHA can provide a more flexible credit framework than some conventional options, but upfront and annual mortgage insurance generally apply. FHA property, occupancy, appraisal, and county loan-limit requirements must also be satisfied. (consumerfinance.gov )
VA-backed purchase loans are available to eligible Veterans, active-duty service members, and certain surviving spouses.
A Certificate of Eligibility, sufficient income, satisfactory credit, and personal occupancy are generally required. No-down-payment financing may be available, but lender, appraisal, property, and eligibility requirements still apply. (benefits.va.gov )
The USDA Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program assists eligible low- and moderate-income households purchasing a qualifying primary residence in an eligible rural area.
The program may provide up to 100% financing, subject to household income, property location, occupancy, lender, and program requirements. (rd.usda.gov )
Compare the Complete Cost Do not choose a program based only on its minimum down payment.
Compare:
Interest rate APR Discount points Lender credits Mortgage insurance Funding or guarantee fees Closing costs Monthly payment Cash to close Insurance duration Loan term Property restrictions Long-term ownership plans Explore your options early: Compare first-time home buyer mortgage programs based on your credit, income, property, available funds, and homeownership goals.
Step 7: Get Preapproved Before Serious House Hunting A mortgage preapproval is a preliminary lender review based on the financial information and documents available at that time.
It can help you:
Estimate a realistic purchase range Understand possible monthly payments Identify documentation issues Compare loan programs Show sellers that you have discussed financing Prepare for a faster application process after an offer is accepted The CFPB states that a preapproval letter can show sellers that a buyer is serious, but it does not commit the buyer to that lender. (consumerfinance.gov )
Preapproval Is Not Final Approval A preapproval remains subject to matters such as:
Verification of income and employment Updated credit Asset documentation Acceptable source of funds Property appraisal Title review Homeowners insurance Program eligibility Underwriting No material adverse financial changes Do not describe a preapproval as a guaranteed mortgage approval.
Update Your Preapproval When Something Changes Tell your Loan Officer when:
Your employment changes. Your income or compensation changes. You open or close credit. You move money between accounts. You receive gift funds. Your down payment changes. The property type changes. The purchase price changes. You add or remove a borrower. An outdated preapproval may no longer reflect the proposed transaction.
If you are worried about credit impact, review does pre-approval affect your credit before submitting multiple preapproval requests.
Step 8: Build Your Homebuying Team First time home buying becomes more manageable when each professional’s role is clear.
Your team may include:
Licensed Loan Officer or mortgage broker Real estate agent Home inspector Appraiser Insurance agent Title or escrow company Real estate attorney where appropriate or required HUD-approved housing counselor Tax professional for tax-specific questions Choosing a Loan Officer Ask:
Which loan programs may fit my situation? How many lenders or options can you compare? What documents are needed? How do the rate, APR, points, fees, and credits compare? What could affect my approval? How will I receive updates? Who handles processing and underwriting communication? Choosing a Real Estate Agent Ask:
How often do you work with first-time buyers? How familiar are you with my target area? How will you help evaluate comparable sales? What should I know about representation agreements? How do you handle inspection and appraisal issues? How will you protect important contract deadlines? Verify professional licensing and understand how each person is compensated.
Step 9: Search for a Home Within Your Complete Budget Your search range should reflect the estimated total payment and ownership costs—not only the listing price.
For each property, consider:
Property taxes Homeowners insurance Flood or hazard exposure HOA dues Special assessments Utilities Age of major systems Roof condition Foundation and drainage Heating and cooling Parking Maintenance requirements Future resale considerations Two similarly priced homes can have very different monthly and long-term ownership costs.
Questions to Ask During House Hunting How old are the roof and major systems? Have additions or renovations been permitted? Is the property legally used as advertised? Are there HOA restrictions? Are special assessments planned? What utilities does the owner pay? Is the home in a flood or wildfire risk area? How much have property taxes changed? Are there insurance availability concerns? Why is the seller moving? How long has the home been listed? Your real estate agent, inspector, insurer, lender, and local government records may each provide different pieces of information.
Step 10: Make an Offer With Appropriate Protections A purchase offer should address more than the price.
Depending on local practice and the transaction, the contract may include:
Financing contingency Inspection contingency Appraisal contingency Title review Home-sale contingency Seller disclosures Repair terms Closing date Earnest-money amount Seller credits Personal property included in the sale Contract rules vary by state. Discuss the legal effect of contingencies and deadlines with an appropriately qualified real estate professional or attorney.
Do Not Remove Protections Without Understanding the Risk Waiving or shortening a contingency may make an offer more appealing to a seller, but it can also increase the risk of losing earnest money or being obligated to complete the purchase.
Ask what happens if:
Financing is denied. The appraisal is below the purchase price. The inspection identifies major defects. Title problems appear. Homeowners insurance is unavailable or unaffordable. The closing is delayed. A strong offer should still fit your financial capacity and risk tolerance.
Step 11: Complete the Home Inspection A home inspection is an independent evaluation of the home’s observable condition for the buyer.
The inspector may review areas such as:
Structure and foundation Roof Plumbing Electrical systems Heating and cooling Windows and doors Water intrusion Attic and insulation Appliances Drainage Safety concerns The CFPB explains that a home inspection is different from an appraisal and that buyers commonly need both. The inspector works for the buyer, while the appraisal primarily supports the lender’s valuation and collateral review. (consumerfinance.gov )
After the Inspection Depending on the contract and findings, you may:
Continue without changes Request repairs Request a seller credit Renegotiate the purchase price Obtain specialized inspections Cancel under an applicable contingency Not every defect requires the seller to make a repair. Your rights depend on the contract and local law.
Step 12: Complete the Appraisal The lender generally obtains an appraisal or other permitted valuation to evaluate the property’s market value and suitability as collateral.
The appraisal does not guarantee that:
The property is free from defects The home is worth the purchase price to you personally No repairs will be needed The home will appreciate The transaction will receive final approval If the appraised value is below the purchase price, possible outcomes may include:
Renegotiating the price Challenging factual appraisal errors through the lender Increasing the buyer’s cash contribution Changing the financing structure Canceling under an applicable contingency The available options depend on the contract, loan program, borrower qualification, and lender review.
Step 13: Compare Official Loan Estimates After you have a property and submit the required application information, request Loan Estimates from multiple mortgage providers.
A Loan Estimate is a standardized disclosure showing the expected loan terms, payment, closing costs, and cash to close. It is not a loan approval. (consumerfinance.gov )
Use Consistent Assumptions For a meaningful comparison, ask each provider to use the same:
Property Purchase price Loan amount Down payment Occupancy Mortgage type Loan term Credit information Rate-lock period Estimated closing date Loan Estimate Comparison Checklist Item
What to review
Interest rate The note rate used to calculate interest APR Rate plus certain financing costs Discount points Upfront charges connected with pricing Lender credits Credits that may reduce upfront costs Origination charges Lender or broker-related loan costs Mortgage insurance Upfront or monthly cost when applicable Projected payment Principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and HOA estimates Cash to close Estimated total funds required Rate lock Whether pricing is locked and until when Loan features Fixed, adjustable, balloon, or prepayment terms
The CFPB recommends requesting multiple Loan Estimates and comparing them rather than relying only on an advertised rate or verbal quote. (consumerfinance.gov )
Step 14: Complete Processing and Underwriting After you choose a loan offer and express intent to proceed, the lender verifies the information in your application.
Processing and underwriting may include:
Income verification Employment verification Asset review Credit review Source-of-funds documentation Appraisal review Title work Insurance review Property eligibility Program compliance Final loan conditions Why Does the Lender Ask for More Documents? Additional requests may occur because:
A pay stub or bank statement became outdated. A large deposit needs documentation. Income needs further analysis. Employment changed. A new credit obligation appeared. The appraisal identified a concern. The purchase contract changed. The lender needs to resolve an inconsistency. Respond promptly, but ask what specific issue the requested document is intended to address.
Avoid Major Financial Changes Before closing, avoid making significant changes without discussing them with your Loan Officer.
Examples include:
Changing jobs Reducing work hours Opening new credit Financing furniture Co-signing a loan Moving large amounts of money Closing bank accounts Spending funds reserved for closing The lender may reverify financial information before funding.
Step 15: Review the Closing Disclosure The Closing Disclosure presents the final details of the selected mortgage, including loan terms, projected payments, fees, and cash to close.
By law, the borrower generally must receive the initial Closing Disclosure at least three business days before the scheduled mortgage closing. Use that time to compare it with the most recent Loan Estimate and ask about unexpected differences. (consumerfinance.gov )
Review:
Borrower names Property address Loan amount Interest rate Monthly principal and interest Mortgage insurance Estimated taxes and insurance Prepayment penalty Balloon payment Closing costs Seller and lender credits Cash to close Escrow details Do not wait until signing to ask about a charge or term you do not understand.
Step 16: Complete the Final Walk-Through and Closing The final walk-through allows the buyer to confirm that the property is in the expected condition before closing.
Check whether:
Agreed repairs were completed. Included appliances and fixtures remain. The home is reasonably clean and vacant as required. No new damage is visible. Utilities and major systems are operating. Personal property was removed as agreed. At closing, you may sign:
Promissory note Mortgage or deed of trust Closing Disclosure Title and settlement documents Tax and insurance forms Occupancy certifications Additional state or program documents Once the transaction funds and records according to local procedures, ownership and keys can be transferred.
First-Time Home Buyer Tips That Can Prevent Problems These practical first time home buyer tips can help reduce surprises.
1. Do Not Spend Every Dollar at Closing Keep funds for:
Emergency repairs Insurance deductibles Moving Utility deposits Immediate maintenance Basic furnishings Unexpected tax or escrow changes 2. Compare Payments, Not Just Purchase Prices A lower-priced condo with high HOA dues may cost more per month than a higher-priced home without an association.
3. Do Not Depend on Future Refinancing A refinance depends on future property value, credit, income, rates, fees, and available programs. It should not be treated as guaranteed.
4. Document Every Source of Funds Keep records for transfers, gifts, deposits, asset sales, and assistance.
5. Shop for Homeowners Insurance Early The cost and availability of insurance can affect qualification and affordability.
6. Read HOA Documents Review rules, reserves, insurance, budgets, assessments, litigation, and rental restrictions.
7. Protect Your Credit Through Closing Continue paying bills on time and avoid unnecessary borrowing.
8. Attend the Inspection When practical, attend and ask the inspector to explain significant findings and maintenance needs.
9. Compare at Least Three Mortgage Offers A different rate-and-cost combination may change both upfront expenses and the long-term cost.
10. Ask Questions Until the Answer Is Clear A trustworthy professional should be able to explain the process without pressuring you to accept terms you do not understand.
Common First-Time Home Buyer Mistakes First-time buyers can reduce risk by avoiding several common errors.
Shopping Before Establishing a Budget Touring homes above your comfortable range can make realistic options feel disappointing.
Focusing Only on the Down Payment Closing costs, prepaid expenses, reserves, repairs, and moving costs also require funds.
Using the Maximum Approval as the Target Price The lender’s calculation may not account for every personal expense or savings goal.
Comparing Only Interest Rates Points, fees, credits, mortgage insurance, loan term, and cash to close can change the real cost.
Skipping the Inspection An appraisal does not replace an inspection.
Ignoring Insurance Until the End Insurance availability or cost can affect the loan and monthly payment.
Making Financial Changes During Underwriting New debt, reduced income, or unexplained transfers can affect approval.
Assuming Assistance Is Automatically Available Programs may have income, location, lender, funding, or education requirements.
Underestimating Repairs Even a well-maintained home requires ongoing spending.
First-Time Homeowner Tips After Closing The responsibilities continue after you receive the keys.
Confirm Your Mortgage Servicer The company collecting payments may differ from the company that originated the loan.
Verify payment instructions independently before sending money.
Watch for Closing and Wire Scams Fraudsters may imitate lenders, title companies, or real estate agents.
Confirm wiring instructions through a trusted telephone number rather than relying only on an email.
Build a Maintenance Calendar Track recurring tasks such as:
HVAC servicing Filter replacement Roof and gutter checks Plumbing inspections Pest prevention Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Water-heater maintenance Seasonal exterior work Maintain Emergency Savings Repairs do not follow a predictable schedule. Keep accessible funds beyond normal monthly expenses.
Review Property Taxes and Insurance Taxes, insurance premiums, and escrow payments can change after closing.
Keep Important Documents Retain:
Closing Disclosure Promissory note Deed Inspection report Appraisal Insurance policy Repair records Home warranties Property surveys Tax documents Avoid Paying Anyone Who Promises to Change Your Mortgage Contact your mortgage servicer directly when you have payment questions or difficulty making payments.
These first time homeowner tips can help make the transition from buyer to responsible owner more manageable.
How Loan Factory Helps First-Time Home Buyers Loan Factory is a technology-powered mortgage platform helping borrowers compare mortgage options through a broad wholesale lender network.
A first-time buyer may need to compare conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, assistance, and other eligible structures. The right option depends on credit, income, available funds, property, location, and long-term plans.
Depending on eligibility and lender availability, Loan Factory can help you:
Compare first-time home buyer mortgage programs Review low-down-payment options Evaluate gift funds and down payment assistance Compare rate, APR, points, fees, credits, and cash to close Prepare for preapproval Organize income and asset documents Understand mortgage insurance Review property and occupancy requirements Track documents and loan progress through TERA Communicate with a licensed Loan Officer throughout the process Start an online mortgage application or for direct support, call or text (660) 333-3333.
Start Your First-Time Home Buying Journey With a Plan Buying a house for the first time becomes easier to manage when you follow a clear sequence.
Start with your personal budget, credit, savings, and goals. Research first-time buyer assistance and compare multiple mortgage programs. Get preapproved before serious house hunting, but remember that preapproval is conditional.
After finding a home, protect your interests through the contract, inspection, appraisal, insurance review, and Loan Estimate comparison. Respond carefully during underwriting and review the Closing Disclosure before signing.
A successful first time home buyer plan is not simply about getting approved. It is about choosing a home and mortgage that remain manageable after closing.
Apply online to begin reviewing your mortgage options, or call or text (660) 333-3333 to speak with a Loan Factory mortgage professional.
Experience Note The roadmap, checklists, loan comparisons, and first-time buyer advice in this article are educational illustrations based on common mortgage preparation, purchase, inspection, appraisal, underwriting, and closing considerations.
They do not represent a specific Loan Factory borrower, property, assistance award, preapproval, quote, Loan Estimate, approval, closing, or funded transaction. Actual requirements, costs, timing, and outcomes vary by borrower, lender, property, program, location, and market conditions.
Sources About the Author Loan Factory Mortgage Education Team
Loan Factory is a technology-powered mortgage platform helping borrowers compare mortgage options through a broad wholesale lender network.
The Loan Factory Mortgage Education Team helps first-time home buyers understand budgeting, mortgage programs, preapproval, down payment assistance, inspections, appraisals, underwriting, closing, and the responsibilities that begin after purchasing a home.
Disclaimer This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not financial, tax, legal, credit, accounting, real estate, appraisal, insurance, investment, or housing-counseling advice. It is not a commitment to lend or a guarantee of preapproval, approval, program eligibility, assistance, rates, APRs, payments, savings, property value, closing, or funding.
Mortgage programs, assistance, income limits, loan limits, rates, fees, credits, mortgage insurance, documentation, property requirements, and eligibility may change and vary by borrower, lender, property, occupancy, loan purpose, location, underwriting, and investor guidelines. Consult appropriately licensed professionals regarding your individual circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions