5 Things Every First-Time Buyer Should Know Before They Start

1. You Don’t Need a 20% Down Payment That old “rule” your uncle told you about?

That old “rule” your uncle told you about? Forget it. Many first-time buyers put down way less. FHA loans can go as low as 3.5%, VA loans often require zero down, and there are down payment assistance programs that can help you bridge the gap.

👉 Try our Down Payment Calculator to see what different down payment options look like for your budget.

2. Your Monthly Payment Matters More Than the Price Tag

Yes, the home price is important. But what really affects your life is the monthly payment. Between principal, interest, taxes, and insurance (PITI — if you want to sound fancy), your monthly number is what you’ll feel every 30 days.

👉 Play with our Mortgage Calculator to see what your payment looks like at different price points.

3. Closing Costs Are Real (and Usually a Surprise)

It’s not just the down payment you’ll need. Closing costs (think appraisal fees, title insurance, lender fees) usually add up to about 2–5% of the loan amount. Nobody likes hidden costs — so we tell you upfront.

👉 Check out our Closing Costs Estimator so you can budget without any curveballs.

4. Get Pre-Approved Before You Start Browsing Zillow at Midnight

We know it’s tempting to fall in love with homes online. But here’s the thing: without a pre-approval, you don’t know what you can actually afford — and sellers won’t take you seriously. Pre-approval gives you confidence, speed, and an edge in a competitive market.

5. You Don’t Have to Figure It Out Alone

Yes, there are a million blogs and TikToks about home buying. But nothing beats having a loan officer who can walk you through it step by step. We’ll explain things in plain English, answer your questions (even the “dumb” ones — which, spoiler: don’t exist), and keep the process human.

Bottom Line

Buying your first home doesn’t have to be scary or confusing. With the right tools, the right plan, and the right partner, you can trade the stress for excitement — and actually enjoy the process.

When you’re ready, we’ll be here with clear answers, no surprises, and maybe even a few laughs along the way.

👉 Get Pre-Approved Now and take your first confident step toward homeownership.