First-Time Buyers
Your first home, without the guesswork.
Low down-payment programs, down-payment assistance, and a plain-English guide through every step — from what you can actually afford to the day you get keys.
3% down conventional
Qualified first-time buyers can start with far less than 20%.
FHA at 3.5% down
Flexible credit and debt-ratio guidelines when conventional is a stretch.
Down-payment assistance
Grants and second liens that help bridge the gap where eligible.
Gift funds allowed
Family help is welcome — we document it correctly the first time.
Seller credits
Negotiating costs into the deal often beats saving another six months.
Rate buydowns
Temporary or permanent buydowns to make the first years comfortable.
Straight Talk
Renting is not throwing money away. Neither is waiting.
You will hear both slogans. The truth is arithmetic: your payment, your timeline, and what the same home costs in a year. We run those numbers honestly before you fall in love with a listing — and if the answer is "wait six months and fix these two things first," that is the answer you will get.
- Underwritten pre-approval so your offer competes
- Real payment math on every home you consider
- A credit plan if your score is near a better tier
- One advisor for the home and the loan
Good to Know
Common Questions.
How much do I actually need saved?
Less than most people think. Between 3% and 3.5% down programs, gift funds, seller credits and assistance programs, many of my first-time buyers close with far less than 20% — but you also want a small reserve after closing, and we plan for that.
What credit score do I need?
FHA financing can work from the low 600s; conventional pricing improves meaningfully at 680 and again at 740. If you are close to a tier break, there are often quick, legitimate moves that lift you before we lock.
What does a first-time buyer actually pay at closing?
Down payment plus closing costs — typically 2% to 4% of the price for lender fees, title, escrow and prepaid taxes and insurance. Seller credits can offset much of it, and you get a full written estimate before you commit to anything.
How long does the whole process take?
Pre-approval in 24 to 48 hours once documents are in. From accepted offer to keys is usually 21 to 30 days. The search in between is the part only you control.
Kristen Boano, NMLS #1995496 · NEXA Mortgage, LLC, NMLS #1660690. Equal Housing Lender. This page is general information, not a commitment to lend. Loan approval is not guaranteed and is subject to lender review of your complete application. Program terms and availability are subject to change.