First Home Loan
Navigating the home-buying process can be tricky – especially if you’ve never done it before. The resources in this section will guide first-time homebuyers through the experience by tackling loan types, cost considerations, required documentation, contract terms, and more.
How To Buy Your First Home: Step-by-Step Guide
Clear, step-by-step guidance for first-time buyers: get mortgage-ready, compare loan options, estimate affordability, and close with confidence.
Real Estate Comps: Definition and How to Use Them
Use real estate comps to estimate a home's market value, spot fair prices, and strengthen offers—practical guidance on finding and adjusting comparable sales.
Massachusetts First-Time Homebuyer Grants & Assistance
Find Massachusetts state and local down payment aid—grants and forgivable loans up to $75K to help eligible first-time buyers afford a home.
Real Estate Comps: Definition and How to Use Them
Use real estate comps to estimate a home's market value, spot fair prices, and strengthen offers—practical guidance on finding and adjusting comparable sales.
Massachusetts First-Time Homebuyer Grants & Assistance
Find Massachusetts state and local down payment aid—grants and forgivable loans up to $75K to help eligible first-time buyers afford a home.
Illinois First-Time Homebuyer Grants & Assistance
Explore Illinois down payment & closing-cost programs—find grants, forgivable loans, eligibility and up to $25,000 to help first-time buyers qualify.
Texas Down Payment Assistance Programs For Homebuyers
Compare Texas down payment assistance—statewide and local programs, income eligibility and typical aid amounts to help you afford a home.
Home Equity: What It Is and How It Works
Clear guide to home equity: what it is, how it grows, how to build and monitor it, and how to tap it for upgrades, debt payoff, or wealth.
How Employment History Affects Mortgage Approval
See how your employment history, income types, and documentation affect mortgage approval—what lenders require and how to strengthen your application.
Escrow Accounts: What They Are & How They Work
Understand how escrow accounts protect buyers, streamline tax, insurance and closing payments, and when they're required — plus tips to manage yours.
Open House: What It Is and How It Works
Open houses explained: how they work, what buyers and sellers should expect, etiquette, and practical tips to tour, compare, and follow up.
VA Funding Fees: What Are They and How Much Do They Cost?
Understand VA funding fees—what they are, typical rates (0.5–3.6%), payment options, and who may be exempt so you can estimate your out‑of‑pocket cost.
How Much Does It Cost to Buy a House? Expenses Explained
Discover the real costs of buying a home - down payments, closing fees, monthly and ongoing expenses with sample scenarios to budget confidently.