first time homebuyer guide

your first home starts here

A step-by-step guide for first time homebuyers, understand the process, explore first time homebuyer loan options, and buy with confidence.

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Today's mortgage rates

30-yr. fixed

6.457%

6.878% APR
7-yr. ARM

6.104%

6.278% APR
30-yr. fixed FHA

5.862%

6.736% APR
30-yr. fixed VA

5.75%

5.844% APR

explore loan programs

We offer a variety of loan options for first-time home buyers. 

conventional loan

3% minimum down payment for first time homebuyers.

FHA Loan

Popular low down payment program with options as low as 3.5% .

VA loan

No down payment required for veterans and active duty.

uSDA Loan

No down payment required for eligible rural areas

down payment assistance

Programs that can help you buy with little to no money down

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First time homebuyer checklist

Check & improve your credit score

Save for a down payment

Get pre-approved

review loan options

Find your home

make an offer

home inspection & appraisal

Close & get your keys!

Mortgage payment calculator

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Estimated Monthly Payment $2,206/mo Taxes, insurance and HOA fees not included.
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Different Types of Down Payment assistance

Which one is the better one for you? 

Program
Down Payment
Credit Score
Best For
FHA
3.5%
580
Lower credit
Conventional
3%
620+
Strong Credit
VA
0%
580+
Veterans
USDA

Get a custom investment loan rate

We compare rates from 40+ lenders to find competitive options that fit your needs. You’ll get expert guidance, personalized solutions, and a partner who works for you.

why work with a mortgage broker?

We compare rates from 40+ lenders to find competitive options that fit your needs. You’ll get expert guidance, personalized solutions, and a partner who works for you.

Frequently asked questions

What are investment property mortgage rates?

Investment property mortgage rates are interest rates offered on loans used to purchase or refinance non-owner-occupied properties. Because investment properties typically present more risk to lenders than primary residences, rates are often slightly higher than traditional owner-occupied mortgage rates.

Down payment requirements vary depending on the loan program and property type. Conventional investment property loans often require 15% to 25% down, while some DSCR and Non-QM programs may require different minimum down payment amounts based on borrower qualifications and property cash flow.

Here at Andes Mortgage, we have DSCR loan options with down payments as low as 15% so as long as the property meets a minimum debt coverage ratio of at least 1.  

A Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loan allows real estate investors to qualify based primarily on the property’s rental income rather than personal income. These programs are popular among investors who own multiple properties, are self-employed, or prefer not to provide traditional income documentation.

Conventional investment loans require income verification through tax returns, W-2s, and pay stubs. This can become troublesome for many investors with complex income. 

Meanwhile, DSCR loans focus on the property’s cash flow and rental income. Our DSCR loans do not require personal income or DTI to qualify.

The best option depends on your investment strategy, income structure, and long-term goals.

Yes. Many DSCR and Non-QM loan programs allow investors to purchase or refinance investment properties through an LLC or business entity. Program guidelines vary by lender and loan type.

With our DSCR, Non-QM or Fix and Flip programs, we do not have a maximum amount of properties. 

Conventional financing on the other hand often limits the number of financed properties. 

Yes. Andes Mortgage offers bank statement loan programs that allow eligible self-employed borrowers and investors to qualify using personal or business bank statements instead of traditional tax returns. These programs can be a great option for investors with strong cash flow but complex tax returns.

Absolutely! DSCR loans are specifically designed around property cash flow, while conventional financing may also allow rental income under certain guidelines.

The best loan depends on your financial situation and investment goals. Conventional loans may offer competitive rates for qualified borrowers, while DSCR, bank statement, and other Non-QM programs can provide more flexibility for self-employed borrowers and experienced real estate investors. Comparing multiple options with a mortgage broker can help determine the best fit.

Yes. Andes Mortgage offers fix-and-flip financing for real estate investors looking to purchase, renovate, and resell properties for profit.

Fix-and-flip loans are short-term financing solutions designed to help investors acquire properties that may need repairs or updates before being sold or refinanced. Depending on the project, financing may be available for both the purchase price and renovation costs.

Marcos Zambrano President Andes Mortgage LLC

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