First-time buyer programs · Start here

Your first home, one clear step at a time.

Buying for the first time comes with options many people never hear about: FHA, conventional, VA and USDA loans, plus state and local down payment help. Your loan officer lays them out side by side and explains each one in plain English.

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No question is too basic. Leave with a clear plan for your first home.

Moving boxes in the sunlit front room of an empty home

What to know.

The essentials, in plain English.

Every program in one conversation: FHA, conventional, VA, USDA and down payment help, compared side by side, instead of researching each one alone.
Help you may not know about: State and local programs can help with your down payment or closing costs. Your loan officer can tell you which ones fit where you’re buying.
A budget before you tour: Learn what you can comfortably afford before you start touring homes, so you shop in the right price range.
One person to ask: From your first question to closing day, you have one person to call who explains every step.

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What happens after you press the button.

Your loan officer reaches out: Andrew reads what you send personally and gets in touch to talk it through.
What you’ll talk about: What you’re looking for, what you’ve saved and anything you’re unsure about. No question is too basic.
What to have handy: Just your questions and a rough idea of your budget. Documents come later, when you apply.

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Who counts as a first-time buyer
Many programs count you as one if you haven’t owned a home in the past three years, so you may count even if you’ve owned before.
- People buying their very first home
- Buyers who haven’t owned in the past three years
- Renters ready to own
- Buyers with modest savings or credit still being built
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What you’ll need
Your loan officer confirms the list for your program.
- Recent pay stubs, W-2s and tax returns
- Bank statements for your savings
- A gift letter, if family is helping
- A homebuyer course certificate, if your program asks for one
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Common questions

How much should I save before I buy?

Enough for your down payment, closing costs and a cushion after you move in. It depends on the program and the home, so it helps to look at your options first.

Do I need perfect credit?

No. Several programs work with credit that is still growing. A short conversation and, with your permission, a credit check tell you where you stand.

What is down payment assistance?

Grants, forgivable loans or second loans from state and local programs that help with your down payment or closing costs. Each program has its own income limits and rules, and some must be repaid when you sell or refinance.

Who counts as a first-time buyer?

Many programs count you as one if you haven’t owned a home in the past three years. Each program sets its own definition.

Which loan should a first-time buyer choose?

It depends on your credit, your savings, where you’re buying and whether you’ve served. FHA, conventional, VA and USDA loans all have first-time options, and comparing them side by side shows which fits.

What costs should I plan for besides the down payment?

Closing costs, an appraisal, a home inspection and moving costs. After you apply, your Loan Estimate lists your closing costs before you commit.

Do I have to take a homebuyer course?

Some programs ask for one, often online. Even when it isn’t required, it’s a good way to learn the steps before you start.

Should I talk to a lender before I look at homes?

Yes. Knowing your budget and your loan options first means you shop in the right price range, and sellers take an offer more seriously when a lender has reviewed your finances.

Will checking my options affect my credit?

Answering a few questions doesn’t check your credit. A credit check comes later, only with your permission, and your loan officer can explain how it may affect your score.

What if I don’t qualify?

You leave with a plan: what to work on, and which program to aim for when you’re ready.

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