First Time Home Buyers Homepage - First-Time Home Buyers

First-Time Home Buyers

how much down payment on a house do you need

The Happy Truth About Down Payments

Twenty percent is not a rule, guys.

Your Debt-to-Income Ratio: What It is and Why It Matters

You’re lender needs to know EVERYTHING.

what is a good credit score to buy a home

Some Things About Credit Score We Bet You Didn’t Know

There’s more to it than “good” or “bad.”

Doing the Math: Determine Your Ideal Home Price

It’s easy, we promise.

Rent vs. Buy: Are You Ready to Own Your First Home?

Vacations may have to go on hold.

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Rent vs. Buy: Are You Ready to Own Your First Home?

Vacations may have to go on hold.

Investing in a House: A Smart Move?

What makes a house a good investment? First, you should enjoy your time living in it. And, just as important, make some serious stacks when you eventually sell it for...

Some Things About Credit Score We Bet You Didn’t Know

There's more to it than "good" or "bad."

Should Bad Credit Delay Home Buying?

It’s the million-dollar housing question: “Can I still get a mortgage and buy a home if I’ve got less-than-perfect credit?” The answer is yes. But before you get too hyped,...

Not Quite Ready to Buy. What Next?

Do you think any of these things when the topic of home buying comes up? I’ll just hang a bit longer to see how this job goes. It’s OK here,...

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The Big Decision

6 Smart Ways to Raise Money for a Down Payment

Crowdfunding is a thing.

Doing the Math: Determine Your Ideal Home Price

It's easy, we promise.

Your Debt-to-Income Ratio: What It is and Why It Matters

You're lender needs to know EVERYTHING.

The Happy Truth About Down Payments

Twenty percent is not a rule, guys.

Why You’ll Dig Doing Taxes After You Buy Your First Home

Here's an insane detail to chew on: Numerous tax breaks will now be available to you that weren't when you were a renter. In fact, "a $1,200 mortgage payment, with...

Getting Real About Mortgage Rates

Some things in life are not fixed and stable. Take, for instance the price of airline tickets. So annoying. And then there’s the rate of interest charged on a mortgage....

Loans for First-Time Home Buyers: Your Best Bets

Is there a way to rate loans for first-time home buyers as good, better and off the charts? Probably not, as each person’s financial situation is unique. BUT there are...

Why Mortgage Insurance May Be Required

You probably know about homeowners insurance because you're ready to be a homeowner. Besides, you want to insure that nice, new dream home. But mortgage insurance? What and why and...

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Financial Stuff

The House is a Dime Piece. Does the Yard Match Up?

The home you like is nestled in the chillest neighborhood ever — mature trees, quaint back alleys and lots of charming front porches as far as the eye can see....

How to Find the Right Real Estate Agent

If you’re like most first-time home buyers, you probably grind on the daily. The hustle is real, so why would you expect any less from your real estate agent? Finding...

Buying Your First Home: Bringing Friends and Family Along for the Ride

Buying a home can be stressful, whether you’re buying with a partner or solo. Seeking the guidance and second opinions of friends and family (hopefully homeowners themselves) is a great...

End the Arguing: How a Couple Can Compromise When Home Shopping

You and your SO have made the decision to buy your first home. And that’s where agreement ends. Your thoughts on home style and location are at opposite ends of...

The Right Home for You Right Now

You’re ready to buy. Props to you! Taking time now to narrow your focus (yes, we’re advising you to be completely selfish right now) will pay off big-time in the...

Home Shopping Time Wasters (and How to Avoid Them)

Worried you’ll waste too much time on the wrong one (hmm, sounds like a past dating experience) or rush into a less-than-stellar buying decision? The key to confident home shopping...

Is This Neighborhood Next Level?

Buying a home may be one of the biggest investments you will make in your lifetime. This single purchase has potential to significantly increase your net worth. And — added...

Why Home Shopping Takes Detective Work (and How to Do It)

Discovering major problems with a home during the home inspection can be like *stomach drop*. Save yourself some money (and heartache, if you fell hard for the home) by looking...

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Shopping Smart