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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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 -
Why recession fears shouldn’t derail your homebuying plans
Unless you have specific reasons to be concerned about your job, a recession may actually be a good time to buy a home.
4 min read May 20, 2025 -
Bankrate’s 2025 Home Affordability Report
While most homeowners are happy with their choice, many feel some level of remorse.
7 min read May 14, 2025 -
What is mortgage escrow?
It’s an often-inescapable fact of homebuying and homeowning life.
6 min read May 13, 2025 -
What is an HFA loan?
HFA loans are designed to make homeownership more affordable.
5 min read May 12, 2025 -
What is an FHA loan?
FHA loans can help borrowers with less-than-ideal credit and cash. But they aren’t perfect.
5 min read May 09, 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