Your first home,
explained.
Here’s the thing about buying your first home: it shouldn’t feel overwhelming. I walk first-time buyers through every step of the process — from pre-approval to closing — with personalized videos that make it all make sense.
What to expect when buying your first home.
The homebuying process has several stages, and each one matters. Here’s a friendly overview of what you’ll go through — and how I help at every step.
Pre-Approval
Before you start browsing homes (the fun part!), I'll review your finances, credit, and income to figure out how much you can comfortably afford. You'll get a pre-approval letter that shows sellers you're serious.
Loan Selection
Based on your situation, I'll explain your options — FHA, conventional, VA, or down payment assistance programs. I create a personalized video walkthrough of each option so you can compare them on your own time.
Home Search & Offer
Work with a real estate agent to find your home. When you find the right one, you'll make an offer. I'll be available to answer any financing questions your agent or the seller's agent has.
Under Contract
Once your offer is accepted, the real work begins. I'll guide you through documentation, appraisal, and underwriting. You'll receive video updates on your loan's progress.
Closing
At closing, you'll sign your final loan documents. Thanks to the videos I've provided along the way, there won't be any surprises — you'll know exactly what each document means.
How much house can
you actually afford?
Your budget isn’t just about the home price — it’s about the full monthly payment: principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and any HOA or mortgage insurance. Here’s how to think about it.
What credit score do I need to buy a house?
FHA loans accept scores as low as 580 (with 3.5% down) or 500 (with 10% down). Conventional loans typically require 620+. VA loans are flexible with most lenders wanting 620+. Even if your score isn’t perfect, there are programs to help.
How much down payment do I need?
Conventional loans allow as little as 3% down. FHA requires 3.5% down with 580+ credit. VA and USDA offer zero down. You do NOT need 20% down — that’s one of the biggest myths in homebuying. Many California buyers use down payment assistance programs to reduce their out-of-pocket even further.
Can I qualify if I have student loans?
Yes. Lenders look at your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) — the percentage of your gross monthly income going to debt. Most programs allow DTI up to 43–50%. FHA, VA, and conventional each have specific rules for how student loan payments are calculated. I’ll review your full picture.
Can gift funds be used for a down payment?
Yes — most loan programs allow gift funds from family members. You’ll need a gift letter stating it’s a gift (not a loan) and the donor’s relationship to you. FHA, conventional, and VA all accept properly documented gift funds.
What first-time buyers
actually ask me.
I make $120,000 — can I buy in California?
At $120,000 annual income, you could potentially qualify for a home in the $450,000–$600,000 range depending on your debts, credit score, and down payment. In many California markets, that gets you a condo or townhome. With FHA and CalHFA assistance programs, your actual out-of-pocket may be lower than you think.
FHA or conventional with a 680 score?
With 680, you qualify for both. FHA saves on down payment but costs more long-term due to mortgage insurance. Conventional with 5% down may be cheaper over time if you plan to stay 7+ years. I run both scenarios side-by-side so you can see the real difference.
My rent is $3,500 — should I buy?
At $3,500/month, you’re paying $42,000/year with zero equity. Depending on your market, a comparable home might cost $3,200–$4,500/month — and every payment builds equity. With programs requiring as little as 3% down, buying may be more accessible than you think.
Should I pay off debt before buying?
Pay off high-interest credit cards first (improves credit + DTI). But don’t drain your savings paying off low-interest student loans if it leaves you with no down payment. The key is optimizing your DTI while maintaining cash reserves. I’ll advise on the smartest strategy for your situation.
Questions? Let’s talk.
Every first-time buyer has questions — there’s no such thing as a silly one here. I love answering them, and I’ll make sure you truly understand before you move forward.