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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

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.

North Carolina First-Time Homebuyer Grants & Assistance

North Carolina First-Time Homebuyer Grants & Assistance

North Carolina first-time buyers: compare statewide, local, and employer down payment programs offering up to $80K+ and find options you may qualify for.

First-Time Homebuyer Assistance in Georgia

First-Time Homebuyer Assistance in Georgia

Compare Georgia first-time homebuyer programs — eligibility, max aid (up to $25,000), and how to apply so you save on down payment & closing costs.

North Carolina First-Time Homebuyer Grants & Assistance

North Carolina first-time buyers: compare statewide, local, and employer down payment programs offering up to $80K+ and find options you may qualify for.

First-Time Homebuyer Assistance in Georgia

Compare Georgia first-time homebuyer programs — eligibility, max aid (up to $25,000), and how to apply so you save on down payment & closing costs.

When is the Best Time to Buy a House?

Decoding the housing market can be challenging when inventory is low and prices are high. On that note: Is there a preferred time to buy?

What Is Freddie Mac and How It Affects Your Mortgage

Understand how Freddie Mac shapes mortgage availability and rates—use county loan limits and conforming rules to find more affordable home loans.

Mortgage Credit Certificate Guide for First-Time Homebuyers

See how mortgage tax credits (MCCs) can cut federal taxes, often 20-40% of mortgage interest, and lower monthly payments, who qualifies, fees & next steps.

How to Buy a House Without a Realtor

Skip the agent? Understand risks, potential savings, key steps, and when to hire a real estate attorney to protect your purchase.

Title Insurance: How It Protects Homebuyers

Clear guide for homebuyers: how title insurance protects ownership, who pays, and typical costs to avoid costly title disputes.

How To Buy a House With a Lien

Buying a home with a lien? See which liens matter, who pays, and steps to clear or negotiate them so you can close with confidence.

10-Step Guide for First-Time Home Buyers

Step-by-step, 10-point guide for first-time buyers — from finances and preapproval to offers and closing, so you can buy your first home with confidence.

8 First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid 8 common first-time homebuyer mistakes—budget, check credit, get pre-approved and spot hidden costs—to protect your finances and boost approval odds.

Disclaimer

The information provided to you in Own Up blog is intended to be for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. This blog is not a substitute for obtaining legal or tax advice from a qualified professional. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Own Up or describe Own Up's business model. Own Up makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the blog or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the blog for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.