Redfin

JUNE 27, 2025

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. Options like FHA loans , VA loans , and USDA loans offer low down payments and more lenient credit guidelines.

Pre-approval

Redfin

JULY 24, 2025

We’ll outline the key criteria lenders look for, including credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and home equity. Loan origination fee: This is a fee charged by the lender for the administrative work of processing your application. What is required for a mortgage refinance?

Mortgages

Realtor.com

NOVEMBER 28, 2022

Getty Images With mortgage interest rates near 7% and home prices hovering at a national median of $425,000, many homebuyers might be wondering how they’ll be able to pay for a property, and searching for ways to reduce costs. Here’s everything you need to know about USDA loans, and whether they’re right for you.

Loans

Redfin

AUGUST 29, 2024

Debt-to-income ratio (DTI) Another major factor that a lender will consider when approving your mortgage loan is your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). DTI is calculated by dividing total monthly debts by gross monthly income. VA loan: Backed by the U.S.

Earnest money deposit

Redfin

AUGUST 3, 2022

Determining how much house you can afford is the first step in the home buying checklist – setting a realistic budget will relieve stress in the long run and help narrow your home search. Here are the steps to determine how much house you can afford: First, determine your debt to income ratio (DTI).

Purchase and sale agreement

The Close

DECEMBER 29, 2022

It’s an official form certifying that a veteran has met the terms that qualify someone for a VA loan. VA loans might have a lot of red tape, but they can be excellent, affordable options for service members and their spouses. An established chain of title helps protect the buyer from future challenges to ownership.

Purchase and sale agreement