First-Time Homebuyers
If you’re new to buying a home, here’s what you can expect and how to navigate the process
Latest First-Time Homebuyer Articles
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What is the average down payment for first-time homebuyers?
The average down payment for first-time homebuyers is considerably less than the oft-quoted 20 percent down payment requirement.
6 min read Jun 10, 2025 -
How to improve your credit score for a mortgage
The higher your score, the better your approval chances, and the lower the interest rate.
7 min read Jun 09, 2025 -
Mortgage rate lock: What it is and when you should use one
It can make sure you don’t get burned by rising interest rates before you close.
8 min read Jun 09, 2025 -
How to get preapproved for a mortgage
If you’re serious about buying a home, it’s the first thing you should do.
10 min read Jun 06, 2025 -
What is collateral for a mortgage?
It’s usually the home you’re buying — and it’s on the line if you can’t repay the loan.
3 min read Jun 05, 2025 -
How to compare lenders for first-time homebuyers
Select the best mortgage lender for you with these tips.
7 min read Jun 03, 2025 -
Guide to first-time homebuyer loans and programs
A comprehensive guide to grants and other tools that can make your homeownership dreams come true.
9 min read Jun 02, 2025 -
What is a mortgage commitment letter and how does it help buy a home?
It means you’ve got financing to buy a home — probably. But it’s far from a done deal.
8 min read May 29, 2025 -
Bigger isn’t always better for homebuyers facing rising costs
The stats look bleak, but experts caution that if you can afford to buy, getting a smaller home is better than waiting on the sidelines.
3 min read May 28, 2025 -
Closing costs: What are they and how much are they?
They’re upfront expenses you pay on closing day. And they can mount into the thousands.
6 min read May 23, 2025
First-Time Homebuyer Programs by State
- Find your state's first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- Arizona first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- California first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- Florida first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- New Jersey first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- North Carolina first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- Pennsylvania first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- Tennessee first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- Texas first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- Washington first-time homebuyer grants and programs
Get guidance
- First-time homebuyer guide
- First-time homebuyer qualifications
- First-time homebuyer grants
- Tips for first-time homebuyers
- Avoid first-time homebuyer mistakes
- First-time homebuyer classes
- First-time homebuyer tax credit
- First-time homebuyer down payment
- How to compare lenders as a first-time homebuyer