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First-Time Home Buyers

Buying your first home? Knowing your choices helps you get a better deal.

Who This Fits

A first-time buyer is often someone who has not owned a home in the last three years. You might be renting now, living with family, or just starting out. Mark explains each step in plain words.

Your Choices

  • Step-by-step help: from pre-qualification all the way to closing.
  • First-time buyer programs: some loans need less money down.
  • Down payment help: learn about state and federal programs that may help.
  • Budget planning: Mark helps you plan what you can afford.

Basic Requirements

These are general guidelines. Each lender has its own rules, and programs can change.

  • Low down payment loans: FHA (3.5% down with a 580+ score), conventional (as low as 3% for some first-time buyers), and $0 down VA or USDA loans for eligible buyers.
  • Down payment help: state and local programs may help some buyers. Rules and funds change, so ask Mark what is open now.
  • Homebuyer class: some programs ask you to take a short class.
  • Savings for closing: plan for closing costs, and keep some money for after you move in.

How It Works

  1. Start with a pre-qualification to see how much you can borrow.
  2. Call Mark to talk about your plan.
  3. Get pre-approved before you make an offer.

Questions People Ask

Do I need 20% down?

No. Many buyers put down much less. FHA, conventional, VA, and USDA loans all have low or no down payment options for people who qualify.

Should I wait for a better credit score?

Sometimes a small change helps a lot. Sometimes waiting costs more. Watch Mark's video on this, or just ask him.

What is the first step?

A pre-qualification. It shows about how much you may be able to borrow.

Related

FHA Loans · Conventional Loans · Pre-Qualification · All Calculators · Areas We Serve

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All loans depend on credit, income, and property review. Not everyone will qualify. Programs can change. This is general information, not a loan offer. Mark Jost, NMLS #150914. Heathrow Mortgage, Company NMLS #1849599. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Want to talk about your loan?

Buying, refinancing, or just have a question? Mark is happy to help. There is no cost to ask.

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