Category: First Time Home Buyer

Putting Your Tax Refund to Work Toward a Home

A tax refund can give your home buying plans a real boost. Learn how to use it for a down payment, closing costs or paying down debt before you apply.

Getting Your Finances Ready Before the Spring Market

Planning to buy when the market picks up in spring? Use the months before to check credit, build savings, set a budget and get pre-approved.

You’re Pre-Approved. Here’s What Happens Next

Pre-approval is just the beginning. Follow the steps from house hunting and offers to inspection, appraisal, underwriting and closing day on your new home.

Getting Ready for Your First Talk With a Loan Officer

Meeting with a loan officer for the first time? Learn what to think about, which documents help and which questions to ask so you leave with a clear plan.

What Waiting to Buy a Home Can Really Cost You

Waiting for the perfect market to buy a home can have costs of its own. Learn how rent, equity and timing factor in and how to tell when you are

How to Read Your Mortgage Calculator Results

Not sure what your mortgage calculator results mean? Learn what principal, interest, taxes, insurance and PMI represent and how to use the numbers to plan.

How to Save for a Down Payment Without Feeling Overwhelmed

Saving for a home can feel slow. Learn how to set a realistic target, automate savings, trim costs, use windfalls and look into assistance programs.

Staying Calm and Focused When the Housing Market Is Busy

A busy market can rush your decisions. Learn how clear priorities, a pre-approval, a good team and a few breaks can keep your home search on track.

Mortgage Myths That Keep Buyers on the Sidelines

Think you need 20% down or perfect credit to buy a home? We clear up common mortgage misconceptions so you can make decisions based on facts.

First-Time Buyer Guide: Five Steps to Buy With Confidence

Buying your first home? Set a realistic budget, get pre-approved, sort needs from wants, build a good team and plan for costs beyond the down payment.