Start Here · Everyone Welcome
Your First Home, Done Right
Nobody is born knowing how mortgages work — and the education-first approach we built for veterans works exactly the same for everyone. We'll walk you through what you can afford, which program fits, and every step from pre-approval to keys. Questions encouraged; pressure prohibited.
0–3.5%
Down Payment
Conv · FHA · USDA · VA
Programs
Usually Allowed
Gift Funds
$0
Cost to Talk
Which program fits a first purchase
Four paths cover nearly every first-time buyer: conventional with 3% down (strong credit), FHA with 3.5% down (flexible credit), USDA with $0 down (eligible areas and incomes), and VA with $0 down (military service). The right answer is arithmetic, not preference — we price the ones you qualify for side by side.
Down payment help is more available than most buyers think: gift funds from family work on every major program, seller-paid closing costs are negotiable in most markets, and state housing agencies offer assistance programs we can layer in where they genuinely help.
The process, demystified
Step one is a conversation, not paperwork: your goals, timeline, and numbers. Then a real pre-approval — credit, income, and assets verified — so sellers take your offer seriously. Then we shop your loan across the lender network while you shop houses. From accepted offer to keys typically runs about 30 days.
Straight Answers
First-Time Homebuyer: what buyers ask
How much do I really need saved?
Often less than you think: 0–3.5% down depending on program, plus closing costs (which sellers can contribute toward). We'll give you a real cash-to-close number for your exact scenario before you commit to anything.
What credit score do I need to buy a house?
FHA guidelines reach down to 580 (some lenders lower with more down); conventional starts at 620. If you're not there yet, we'll tell you specifically what moves your score fastest — no charge, no obligation.
Should I stop renting to save a bigger down payment?
Sometimes — but appreciation and rising rents often outrun saving. We'll run both scenarios with real numbers so you can decide with your eyes open.
Do I need a realtor first or a lender first?
Lender first, gently: a pre-approval tells you your true budget before you fall in love with anything, and makes every offer you write stronger. We're happy to recommend great agents in your market.
I'm a veteran buying my first home — where do I start?
With your VA benefit — $0 down, no PMI, and our specialty. Start at our VA loans section; the whole site was built around doing that one thing exceptionally well.
Compare
Other programs worth pricing
The Everyday Workhorse
Conventional Loans
The Accessible Path
FHA Loans
The $0-Down Secret
USDA Loans
Above the Limit
Jumbo Loans
Serving in the military, or served? The VA loan is our specialty — $0 down, no PMI, and usually unbeatable if you qualify.