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17 First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes to Consider and How to Avoid Them

Redfin

Don’t skip critical steps like the home inspection or negotiating closing costs. Not taking advantage of government-backed loans A common first-time homebuyer mistake is overlooking government-backed loans when these programs can make homeownership more accessible. Stay grounded by focusing on your priorities and budget.

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23 Common First-Time Homebuyer Questions: Your Questions Answered

Redfin

It covers a variety of fees like lender and title fees, property taxes, home inspection, and homeowners insurance, to name a few. Here are the minimum credit scores needed to qualify for certain loans: Conventional loans: 620-660 Jumbo loans: 700 FHA loans: 500-580 VA loans: no requirement USDA loans: typically 620, but can be lower 8.

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21 Essential Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

Redfin

These require a higher credit score and must fall within conforming loan limits. FHA Loan: Designed for buyers with lower credit scores. down, but includes mortgage insurance for the life of the loan. VA Loan: Available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and family members. These require just 3.5%

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How Old Do You Have to Be to Buy a House? What You Need to Know

Redfin

Conventional 97: Backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, these loans offer 3% down options. VA loans : For eligible veterans or active-duty service members. USDA loans: Targeted for rural or low-income areas. A 580 score is the bare minimum for FHA loans. For better terms, aim for 620+ for conventional loans.

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15 Mortgage Questions to Ask Lenders Before Buying a House

HomeLight

Debt-to-income ratio After looking at how much money is flowing into your household, you’ll want to write down your monthly debts. That’s because lenders will also look at your debt-to-income ratio, or DTI. That number will be your debt-to-income ratio.

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How Much House Can I Afford If I Make $70,000 a Year?

HomeLight

If you can’t afford a 20% down payment on your home and apply for a conventional loan, you’ll have to have private mortgage insurance (PMI) to cover the costs, or just plain mortgage insurance for a government loan (FHA loans or VA loans , for example). PMI will typically cost between 0.5% Safety-net (months): 5.4.

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Vital Steps to Take When Purchasing Your First Home

Realty Biz

Research different types of mortgages available, such as conventional, FHA, or VA loans. Many first-time home buyers have low credit scores and need help with high debt-to-income ratios. Consider your monthly income, expenses, and debt-to-income ratio when setting a budget for your new home.