First-time home Buyers
Helping First-Time Homebuyers Succeed
Learn the steps to take towards homeownership with our guide for first-time buyers.

The main steps of buying your first (or any) home
The journey of homeownership can feel like an overwhelming task, but luckily we can help with every step below.
We can give you all the help and guidance you need to get your mortgage closed, and connect you with
our network to provide you expert realtors, insurance agents and title providers, if you need a hand.
Step 1
Check your financial readiness
Determine how much you can spend on a home by documenting your income, savings, debts, and credit score. Factor in your down payment and monthly mortgage costs to set a realistic budget.
Step 2
Get pre-approved and explore your options
Explore thousands of loan programs, options and scenarios. Strategize your game plan, and get a preapproval letter that best suits your situation. Provide this preapproval letter to agents and home sellers to show them you’re a serious and able to buy a home. Â
Step 3
Connect with a real estate agent
Partner with a knowledgeable real estate agent who understands your needs and the local market. They’ll guide you through every step of the process, from house hunting to closing.
Step 4
Submit an offer and negotiate
Once you find the right home, work with your agent to make a competitive offer. Be ready to negotiate price and terms with the seller to reach a mutually agreeable contract.
Step 5
Complete the home buying process
After your offer is accepted, complete inspections, appraisals, and secure final mortgage approval. Carefully review all closing documents before signing to finalize your home purchase.
6 Key Factors That Influence Your Interest Rate
- Residential type
Condominiums and multi-unit properties typically carry higher interest rates than single-family homes.
- Occupancy
Primary homes typically offer lower interest rates, lower down payments, and more product options than investment homes. Â
- credit score
Higher credit scores generally lead to lower interest rates and additional product options
- Down payment
The larger the down payment, generally, the lower interest rates are.Â
- Loan Product
Government backed loans (FHA, VA, and USDA) typically offer lower interest rates than conventional loans.
- Income
Income amounts often play a role in interest rates. Many mortgage programs incentivize buyers with low to moderate income.
Prepare your pre-approval documents
- Proof of employment income (paystubs/ W2s)
- Most recent 1040s, if self employed
- Bank, investment, and retirement statements
- Current and previous employment history
- Ongoing bills, outstanding credit, and loans

Make confident decisions with our easy calculators
We remove the complexity from mortgages, guiding you through each step so you can make informed, confident decisions
- Mortgage Calculators
- Affordability calculator

Start your journey to a new home today
Secure mortgage pre-approval to make your homebuying process smoother.