October 18, 2026 · Question No. 012

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Questions tagged “First-time buyers”

Every answer on the desk tagged “First-time buyers”.

  1. Question No. 008: How does first-time homebuyer down payment assistance work?

    Down payment assistance (DPA) is help from state, county and city housing agencies and nonprofits that covers part of your down payment or closing costs. It usually comes as a grant, a…

    Programs

  2. Question No. 003: FHA or conventional loan: which is better for a first-time buyer?

    FHA is usually easier to qualify for if your credit score is lower or your debts are higher, and it needs just 3.5% down with a 580 score. Conventional often costs less over time for…

    Programs

  3. Question No. 002: How much down payment do I need to buy a house?

    You do not need 20% down. VA loans can require no down payment for eligible service members and veterans. Some conventional loans allow 3% down, and FHA loans allow 3.5% down with a…

    Buying

  4. Question No. 001: How much house can I afford on my income?

    Start with the monthly payment you can live with, not the price. Many buyers keep the full house payment (loan, taxes, insurance, mortgage insurance) near 28% of gross monthly income…

    Buying