Welcome to Redfin’s First-Time Homebuyer Guide
Thinking of buying a home for the first time? Start the journey with confidence by knowing what to expect every step of the way.
Make your dream of homeownership a reality
How much does it cost to buy a house? Which loans are best for first-time homebuyers? We've got answers from real estate and mortgage experts to help make homebuying easier and more affordable.
Should You Buy Your First Home?
As a renter, you may be wondering if now is the right time to buy your first home. There are many benefits to buying a home, from helping you build wealth and independence, to putting down roots in a community. We’ll help you decide if now is the time to make the leap from renter to first-time homebuyer and how much you can afford when the time comes to buy your first place. Find out if renting or buying a home is right for you and how homeownership can make a difference in your life.
How to Afford a Home
Figuring out how you can afford your first home doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ll help you at every step, from determining how much it costs to buy a home, to saving for a downpayment, getting out of debt, and improving your credit score. Learn about home loan options, credit score requirements, and homebuyer programs that can make it easier to buy your first home.
The Homebuying Process
As a first-time homebuyer, the homebuying process can seem complicated. But it doesn’t have to be. We’ll guide you through the process, from finding a real estate agent and mortgage lender to getting pre-approved for a mortgage, determining your homebuying wishlist, making an offer, and finally closing on a home. Learn the ins and outs of buying your first home.
Tips for New Homeowners
The responsibilities of buying your first home don’t stop after closing. Becoming a new homeowner has its own responsibilities, such as keeping a monthly budget, paying property taxes, and keeping up with your home’s maintenance. We’ll walk you through the basics of becoming a first-time homeowner.
Talk to a local Redfin Agent
Redfin Agents are local experts who can get you better results for lower fees.
Find first-time homebuyer programs by state
You may be able to get into a home sooner and for less money with down payment assistance from a first-time homebuyer program.
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