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
-
How to make an offer on a house
How to make a successful offer on a house, and what to avoid.
7 min read Dec 06, 2023 -
What is a fixed-rate mortgage and how does it work?
It’s America’s favorite home loan by far. But is it the best choice for you?
6 min read Dec 05, 2023 -
Conforming loans: What they are and how they work
It’s a mortgage has to adhere to certain standards — to protect both you and the lender.
9 min read Dec 01, 2023 -
What is a first mortgage?
It’s what we think of when we think “mortgage”: a big loan used to buy a home.
3 min read Nov 30, 2023 -
FHA vs. conventional loans
Is one better than the other? Here are the pros and cons of each.
6 min read Nov 29, 2023 -
Should you get an adjustable-rate mortgage?
Although ARMs are buzzy again, the risk hasn’t changed.
5 min read Nov 20, 2023 -
What is collateral for a mortgage, and how does it work?
It’s usually the home you’re buying — and it’s on the line if you can’t repay the loan.
4 min read Nov 20, 2023 -
What is a mortgage origination fee? And do you have to pay it?
Here’s how much the fee costs and whether you can negotiate it.
6 min read Nov 13, 2023 -
How does mortgage interest work? A guide to your loan’s cost
Everything you always wanted to know, from how it’s calculated to how to get a good rate.
7 min read Nov 09, 2023 -
Joint mortgages: What are they and should you get one?
It can get you that home if your qualifications are shaky. But it doesn’t necessarily mean joint ownership.
5 min read Nov 08, 2023
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