First-time buyer programs · Start here

Your first home, one clear step at a time.

Buying for the first time can be equal parts scary and exciting. We aim to move the needle to excited through education. Most buyers come to us with little to no knowledge of options: FHA, conventional, VA and USDA loans, plus state and local down payment help. The Mortgage Professor team lays them out side by side and explains each one in plain English.

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No question is too basic. Leave with a clear plan for your first home.

Moving boxes in the sunlit front room of an empty home

What to know.

The essentials, in plain English.

Every program in one conversation: FHA, conventional, VA, USDA and down payment help, compared side by side, instead of researching each one alone.
Help you may not know about: State and local programs can help with your down payment or closing costs. Your loan officer can tell you which ones fit where you’re buying.
A budget before you tour: Learn what you can comfortably afford before you start touring homes, so you shop in the right price range.
One person to ask: From your first question to closing day, you have one person to call who explains every step.

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What happens after you press the button.

Someone from the Mortgage Professor Team reaches out: Ryan reads what you send personally and gets in touch to talk it through.
What you’ll talk about: What you’re looking for, what you’ve saved and anything you’re unsure about. No question is too basic.
What to have handy: Just your questions and a rough idea of your budget. Documents come later, when you apply.

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Who counts as a first-time buyer
Many programs count you as one if you haven’t owned a home in the past three years, so you may count even if you’ve owned before.
- People buying their very first home
- Buyers who haven’t owned in the past three years
- Renters ready to own
- Buyers with modest savings or credit still being built
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What you’ll need
Your loan officer confirms the list for your program.
- Recent pay stubs, W-2s and tax returns
- Bank statements for your savings
- A gift letter, if family is helping
- A homebuyer course certificate, if your program asks for one
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Common questions

How much should I save before I buy?

Enough for your down payment, closing costs and a cushion after you move in. It depends on the program and the home, so it helps to look at your options first.

Do I need perfect credit?

No. Several programs work with credit that is still growing. A short conversation and, with your permission, a credit check tell you where you stand.

What is down payment assistance?

Grants, forgivable loans or second loans from state and local programs that help with your down payment or closing costs. Each program has its own income limits and rules, and some must be repaid when you sell or refinance.

Who counts as a first-time buyer?

Many programs count you as one if you haven’t owned a home in the past three years. Each program sets its own definition.

Which loan should a first-time buyer choose?

It depends on your credit, your savings, where you’re buying and whether you’ve served. FHA, conventional, VA and USDA loans all have first-time options, and comparing them side by side shows which fits.

What costs should I plan for besides the down payment?

Closing costs, an appraisal, a home inspection and moving costs. After you apply, your Loan Estimate lists your closing costs before you commit.

Do I have to take a homebuyer course?

Some programs ask for one, often online. Even when it isn’t required, it’s a good way to learn the steps before you start.

Should I talk to a lender before I look at homes?

Yes. Knowing your budget and your loan options first means you shop in the right price range, and sellers take an offer more seriously when a lender has reviewed your finances.

Will checking my options affect my credit?

Answering a few questions doesn’t check your credit. A credit check comes later, only with your permission, and your loan officer can explain how it may affect your score.

What if I don’t qualify?

You leave with a plan: what to work on, and which program to aim for when you’re ready.

5.0

45 reviews on Google

First time buyers
in their own words.

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“We are so incredibly grateful we found Ryan! My wife and I were pretty overwhelmed when we first started looking at mortgages. When we were shopping around, we always felt like we were constantly being pushed into boxes or swayed into lending options that just didn't fit us. Meeting Ryan was a total breath of fresh air. From our very first conversation, he didn't treat us like just another file—he took the time to actually listen and understand exactly where we were at in our lives. Because of his incredible knowledge, he helped us get the exact mortgage we needed for our dream home. He educated us, answered every single silly question we had, and turned our anxiety into pure excitement. Ryan is truly incredible at what he does.”

Jonathan Peig2 months ago

“Thank you to Ryan and his team. Our realtor recommended them. We are very happy we decided to work with them. They kept in touch after we decided it wasn't the right time to buy. One year later, we are in our new home. They made the loan process a stress free experience. They put in the time and effort to make sure their clients are able to make informed decisions. I definitely recommend them for your financing needs!”

Amanda Atkinsona year ago

“We were caught in a situation where we needed to close rather quickly and Ryan and his team at Neighborhood Loans really came through. Ryan had great ideas regarding the financing options available. The communication process was markedly better than any of our previous dealings with lenders. The entire team was fabulous to work with-they showed great patience dealing with form submissions, etc. as we are not the most tech savvy couple. Bottom line-one of the finest customer service experiences ever for Lisa and I. We would heartily recommend Ryan and his team to anyone looking for mortgage assistance. Five Stars!”