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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National vs. local mortgage lenders: Which is right for you?
Although lenders can provide the same end product, not all are created equally.
5 min read Aug 29, 2024 -
Mortgage loan originators: What are they and what do they do?
It’s your administrative rep during the mortgage application process. But don’t rely on them to approve you.
6 min read Aug 13, 2024 -
How to compare lenders for first-time homebuyers
Select the best mortgage lender for you with these tips.
7 min read Aug 02, 2024 -
What is a down payment?
A home down payment is the part of a home’s purchase price you pay upfront.
6 min read Jul 18, 2024 -
Types of mortgage lenders and how to choose
Not all lenders are alike. Here’s how to distinguish them, and why it matters for your mortgage.
5 min read Jul 18, 2024 -
How to improve your finances before your first mortgage
Here are three ways to boost your financial profile — before you apply for a home loan.
6 min read Jul 15, 2024 -
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The secret to getting a mortgage as a single person: Your lender
Is it harder to get a mortgage if you’re single?
4 min read Jul 08, 2024 -
How to improve your credit score for a mortgage
The higher your score, the better your approval chances, and the lower the interest rate.
5 min read Jun 24, 2024 -
I chose this type of mortgage lender to buy my first home — and it was the best decision I made
Bankrate editor Laurie Richards shares why she worked with a local mortgage lender to buy her first home.
4 min read Jun 20, 2024
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