How much do I need for a down payment on my first home?

It depends on the loan program. Some programs allow low down payments for eligible borrowers, and gift funds may be permitted. A loan officer can review what may fit your situation.

What credit score do I need to buy my first home?

Minimum credit requirements vary by program. Government-backed programs such as FHA are generally more flexible than conventional financing. Your full profile — not just the score — is reviewed.

Should I get pre-approved before looking at homes?

Yes. A documented pre-approval clarifies your budget and strengthens your offer when you find the right home. It is a preliminary review, not a commitment to lend.

First-time homebuyers

Your first home, explained in plain English.

No jargon, no pressure, no surprises. We walk first-time buyers through every step — from “can I afford this?” to keys in hand — with a streamlined digital process and a real loan officer behind it.

Find Out What I Can Afford

Free to start · No obligation

Sound familiar?

The four things stopping most first-time buyers

Most people who think they can't buy a home are working from outdated assumptions. Here's the honest answer to each.

“I don't have 20% down.”

Most first-time buyers don't. Several loan programs allow low down payments for eligible borrowers, and gift funds from family may be permitted toward your down payment.

“My credit isn't perfect.”

It doesn't have to be. Government-backed programs like FHA are designed with more flexible credit criteria, and your full financial picture matters more than a single number.

“I don't understand the process.”

That's normal — nobody is born knowing what escrow is. We explain every step in plain language before you sign anything, and you can track your loan's status in real time.

“I'm not sure I can afford it.”

A pre-approval answers this with real numbers instead of anxiety. You'll know your budget before you start touring homes.

Where to start

Loan programs first-time buyers ask about most

Every borrower's situation is different — these are the programs that come up most often in first-time buyer conversations.

FHA Loans

Government-insured financing with more flexible credit criteria and lower minimum down payments — a common starting point for first-time buyers.

View FHA Loans details

Conventional Loans

For buyers with established credit, conventional financing offers a wide range of structures, and mortgage insurance may be removable as equity builds.

View Conventional Loans details

VA Loans

For eligible service members, veterans, and certain surviving spouses — financing options that may not require a down payment.

View VA Loans details

The roadmap

From renting to keys in four steps

Step 01
Get pre-approved
A documented review of your income, assets, and credit gives you a real budget to shop with.
Step 02
Find your home
Tour homes in your price range and make an offer backed by your pre-approval.
Step 03
Full application
Once you're in contract, the digital application and automated verification carry your file forward.
Step 04
Close and get keys
Track every milestone to clear-to-close, sign, and move in.

Free tools

Do the math before you commit

Two ways to explore your numbers right now — no application required.

Mortgage Calculator

See how price, down payment, and rate shape an estimated monthly payment.

Open the calculator

AI Loan Advisor

Describe your situation and get a plain-language explanation of programs worth exploring — plus questions to ask your loan officer.

Try the advisor

Take the first step

Find out what you can afford

A short online inquiry is all it takes to get real numbers. Prefer to talk first? Call 951-923-6230.

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