First-Time Homebuyer Guide

Am I ready to buy?

You do not need perfect credit or a giant savings account. You need steady income, a plan, and a lender who tells you the truth.

Start by asking a simple question. Do you plan to stay put for a few years? If yes, buying usually beats renting over time. If you might move in a year, renting can be the smarter play.

Start with the payment, not the price

Most lenders lead with how much you qualify for. I lead with a different question. Where do you want your monthly payment to be?

We work backward from a payment you are comfortable with. That keeps you safe and keeps your life fun. A house should fit your budget, not swallow it.

Loan options for first time buyers

You have more choices than most people realize. Here are the big ones.

• ›FHA. As low as 3.5% down. Flexible credit. Great for a lot of first time buyers.
• ›Conventional. As little as 3% to 5% down. Often lower long term cost once you hit 20% equity.
• ›VA. Zero down for eligible veterans and active duty service members. No monthly mortgage insurance.
• ›Down payment assistance. Nevada has programs that help with the down payment and closing costs.

The step by step process

Here is the path from curious to keys in hand.

• ›We talk about your goals and your comfortable payment.
• ›I get you pre-approved so you can shop with confidence.
• ›You find a home and we make an offer.
• ›We lock your rate, order the appraisal, and move to closing.
• ›You sign, you get the keys, and I check in long after.

Common mistakes to avoid

• ›Shopping for a home before getting pre-approved.
• ›Opening new credit or financing a car during the process.
• ›Draining every dollar into the down payment with nothing left for reserves.
• ›Only talking to one lender. It pays to compare.