7 Tips for First-Time Homebuyers
BY
Bobbi Pronin
.
April 8, 2025
Once deciding to purchase your first home, it’s easy to get carried away at the keyboard, viewing your dream properties. But if you need a mortgage, especially in today’s competitive market, you need to review your financial house before you go for the brick and mortar.
Here are seven steps to beginning a home-buying journey:
Check your credit scores – The better your scores, the better interest rate lenders will offer and the greater your chance of preapproval. Most lenders expect a credit score of at least 620 to 680. Potential buyers can improve scores by paying down debt and correcting any errors you find through your credit bureau’s dispute process.
Look at your debt – Lenders need to know you can afford a mortgage payment in addition to the debt you already have. They will look at your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. A rule of thumb is that your total debt, including a mortgage, should not exceed 36% to 43 percent of your gross income. Before you apply for a mortgage loan, it may be wise to use some of your savings to pay down credit card debt and/or loans.
Review your budget – Buying a home means taking on more than a mortgage loan. You will have property taxes, maintenance costs, and homeowner’s insurance, perhaps a monthly homeowner’s association (HOA) fee if your purchase a condominium. You will need funds for furnishings and moving costs. Many lenders will want assurance that you have two months of reserves in the bank – which is a good idea in any case.
Assess your down payment - If you opt for a conventional loan and can put 20 percent down, you’ll avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI) – an extra monthly fee that protects the lender should you default. You may get a loan for as little as three percent with PMI, or a VA loan with no down payment. Research first-time buyer assistance programs. Connect with a reputable mortgage broker.
Get pre-approved – It positions you as a serious buyer. It tells you how much house you can afford – and it tells your Realtor® they can negotiate with confidence on your behalf.
Determine what you want – Do you want a single-family home? A duplex? A condo? Where do you want to live? How important to you are school districts, shopping, commuting times?
Choose a well-regarded agent – Ask for recommendations. Read their websites. The right agent will listen to you, negotiate wisely, and work tirelessly to get you the best possible deal on your dream home.
This material is not intended to be relied upon as a statement of the law, and is not to be construed as legal, tax or investment advice. You are encouraged to consult your legal, tax or investment professional for specific advice. The material is meant for general illustration and/or informational purposes only. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, no representation is made as to its accuracy. Intended for distribution to only one per individual for marketing purposes only on behalf of our company. Not for reproduction.
About Bobbi Pronin
Bobbi Pronin is an award-winning writer based in Orange County, Calif. A former news editor with more than 30 years of experience in journalism and corporate communications, she has specialized in real estate topics for over a decade.
Bobbi is not an employee of Anywhere Integrated Services or affiliated with its title companies.
