First-time homebuyer questions, answered.

Most first-time homebuyer programs require a credit score of 620 or higher for a conventional loan, though FHA loans sometimes approve scores in the 580 range. Higher scores unlock better interest rates, so it pays to check your score and dispute any errors before you apply. We can walk you through a credit review during your roadmap.

Many first-time buyer loans start at 3% down, and some FHA programs go as low as 3.5%. Conventional 97 loans, USDA rural loans, and VA loans (for eligible veterans) can each reduce or even eliminate the down payment. Closing costs are separate and usually run 2–5% of the price — your roadmap will help you budget for both.

Yes — land loans are a real product, but they work differently from mortgage loans. Lenders look at the land's value, location, and your plan for construction more than your credit score alone. Land loans often have higher rates and shorter terms, so it helps to get pre-qualified before you commit to a parcel.

Lenders check that your monthly housing payment (principal, interest, taxes, insurance) stays under roughly 28–31% of your gross monthly income, and that your total debts stay under about 43%. Self-employment, freelance, and gig income count too — you just need two years of tax returns and clean documentation. Our roadmap includes a budget worksheet tailored to your numbers.

Yes — a co-borrower (not a co-signer) lets another person's income and credit count toward the loan, which can lift your approval odds or improve your rate. Co-borrowers share ownership of the home and full responsibility for the loan, so it's important to choose someone you trust and to be clear about the legal terms. We can help you model different co-borrower scenarios during planning.