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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Mortgage brokers: What they do and how they help homebuyers
This home-financing pro could help you find that perfect loan.
9 min read Oct 31, 2025 -
3 percent down mortgages: A guide to your options
You don’t have to come up with 20% in cash. But paying less now can cost you later.
7 min read Oct 24, 2025 -
Fixed-rate vs. adjustable-rate mortgages: What’s the difference?
One offers certain, unchanging payments; the other, a chance to pay less interest.
4 min read Oct 22, 2025 -
3 traps the mortgage industry doesn’t want you to know about — and how to avoid them
The mortgage industry has ways to keep you from shopping around or getting the best deal. Here’s how to avoid the traps.
6 min read Oct 10, 2025 -
Prequalified vs. preapproved: What’s the difference?
They sound similar, but only one assures home sellers you’re a serious buyer.
3 min read Sep 30, 2025 -
How to shop for a mortgage without hurting your credit score
A credit drop is inevitable, but there are ways to minimize it.
6 min read Sep 29, 2025 -
Should you apply for a mortgage online?
Most lenders offer a way to apply for a mortgage online, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s what to consider.
6 min read Sep 26, 2025 -
Guide to first-time homebuyer grants
There’s one key fact that separates first-time homebuyer grants from other forms of help.
7 min read Sep 26, 2025 -
Income requirements to qualify for a mortgage
It’s not just if you have enough coming in, but how much you have going out.
5 min read Sep 16, 2025 -
How to buy a house with bad credit
Have credit issues in your past? You still might qualify for a home loan.
5 min read Sep 16, 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