First-Time Homebuyers
If you’re new to buying a home, here’s what you can expect and how to navigate the process
Latest First-Time Homebuyer Articles
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Understanding FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0 system for flood insurance
FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0 system is designed to produce fair flood insurance rates.
7 min read Jul 24, 2024 -
What is an FHA mortgage insurance premium?
It’s an extra expense — the price you pay for the FHA loan’s generosity.
4 min read Jul 02, 2024 -
How to improve your credit score for a mortgage
The higher your score, the better your approval chances, and the lower the interest rate.
5 min read Jun 24, 2024 -
I chose this type of mortgage lender to buy my first home — and it was the best decision I made
Bankrate editor Laurie Richards shares why she worked with a local mortgage lender to buy her first home.
4 min read Jun 20, 2024 -
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How to find the best FHA mortgage lender
You’ll need to do a bit of legwork to find a good fit, but it’s worth it to get one of these loans.
8 min read Jun 10, 2024 -
78% of aspiring homeowners say affordability is a challenge. Here are the complete costs of buying a home
The cost of buying a house goes far beyond just the mortgage payment.
9 min read Jun 10, 2024 -
How does a condo mortgage work?
To improve your chances of getting approved for condo financing, follow these tips.
7 min read Jun 06, 2024 -
What is a fixed-rate mortgage and how does it work?
It’s America’s favorite home loan by far. But is it the best choice for you?
9 min read May 31, 2024 -
What is a first mortgage?
It’s what we think of when we think “mortgage”: a big loan used to buy a home.
7 min read May 23, 2024
First-Time Homebuyer Programs by State
- Find your state's first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- Arizona first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- California first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- Florida first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- New Jersey first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- North Carolina first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- Pennsylvania first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- Tennessee first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- Texas first-time homebuyer grants and programs
- Washington first-time homebuyer grants and programs
Get guidance
- First-time homebuyer guide
- First-time homebuyer qualifications
- First-time homebuyer grants
- Tips for first-time homebuyers
- Avoid first-time homebuyer mistakes
- First-time homebuyer classes
- First-time homebuyer tax credit
- First-time homebuyer down payment
- How to compare lenders as a first-time homebuyer
