Aim for 20% to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), but many first-time programs allow as little as 3% to 5% down.
Buy a house you can afford to live in, not just the most expensive one the bank will let you borrow for. Your future self will thank you.
Before you start looking at kitchens, you need to look at your bank account.
Once your offer is accepted, you’ll enter "escrow." This is a 30-to-45-day whirlwind of inspections, appraisals, and final mortgage processing. Stay patient, don't make any large purchases (like a new car) that could spook your lender, and keep your documents organized.
A good realtor is your advocate. They spot red flags in a house, handle the aggressive negotiations, and—best of all—their commission is typically paid by the seller, not you.
It’s easy to get distracted by shiny appliances. Focus on the things you change:
Budget for "closing costs" (usually 2–5% of the home price) and an emergency fund for that inevitable first-week plumbing issue. 2. Get Pre-Approved (Not Just Pre-Qualified)
Never skip this. They are the only people paid to tell you what’s wrong with your dream home. 4. Distinguish "Must-Haves" from "Nice-to-Haves"