Buying your first home is exciting — and confusing.
These videos break down exactly how it works: how much you really need to put down, which loan programs and grants you qualify for, and how to avoid the mistakes that trip up first-time buyers.
No jargon, no pressure — just the real steps, from someone who does this every day to help first-time homebuyers make their best decision.
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The biggest myth in home buying is that you need 20% down.
You don’t.
Many first-time buyers get in with as little as 3% on a conventional loan or 3.5% on an FHA loan — and some programs, like VA and USDA, allow 0% down for those who qualify.
On top of that, down payment assistance can cover part or all of what you owe up front. The right number depends on your goals, your credit, and the loan you choose — which is exactly what these videos help you sort out.
There’s no single “first-time buyer loan” — there’s a menu, and the trick is matching the program to your situation.
FHA loans are forgiving on credit and down payment. Conventional 97 loans let qualified buyers put just 3% down. VA loans reward eligible veterans with no down payment and no mortgage insurance. USDA loans open up 0%-down buying in eligible areas.
Layered on top, down payment assistance programs can bridge the gap. Understanding the trade-offs — rate, mortgage insurance, upfront cost — is what turns “someday” buyers into approved, and homeowners!
Shopping for a house before getting pre-approved. Draining savings and leaving nothing for closing costs. Opening new credit right before applying. Assuming the lowest rate is automatically the best deal.
Each of these is avoidable once you understand the process — and each is a video here. The goal isn’t to rush you into a house; it’s to make sure that when you’re ready, you’re ready *right*.
Not sure where you stand?
Start with our free tool, Mortgage Match™️ , or see today’s mortgage rates to ballpark your rate and payment.
Don’t stop here. We have some great tools if you are looking to buying your first-home.
As little as 3% on conventional or 3.5% on FHA — and 0% on VA or USDA if you qualify. Down payment assistance can reduce that further.
Primarily inflation, Federal Reserve policy, geopolitical events, which ultimately drives demand for bonds and mortgage-backed securities. Strong economic data and higher inflation tend to push rates up; signs of a cooling economy tend to bring them down.
FHA loans can work with scores in the low 600s (sometimes lower); conventional loans generally want 620+. Higher scores mean better rates. We can help you map a path even if you’re not there yet.
PA programs provide grants or low-cost loans to help cover your down payment and sometimes closing costs. Eligibility depends on income, location, and the program — take [Mortgage Match](/mortgage-match) and we’ll tell you what you qualify for.
It depends on your credit and down payment. FHA is more forgiving; conventional can be cheaper long-term if your credit is strong. We break the comparison down in plain English.It depends on your credit and down payment. FHA is more forgiving; conventional can be cheaper long-term if your credit is strong. We break the comparison down in plain English.
A short application and a review of your income, credit, and assets. It tells you your real budget before you shop — and makes your offer stronger. You can [start here](/mortgage-match).
Take our free 45-second quiz and find the best loan for your unique situation. Click Mortgage Match and watch the magic happen!
