According to Google Trends, online searches for down payment information recently hit an all-time high. And that’s a clear sign more buyers are trying to figure out what they really need to save before making a move (see graph below):
If you’re wondering the same thing, you can always turn to the internet for answers. But a lot of the time, it’s better to ask a local expert. Because here’s what a pro would tell you.
The 20% Down Payment Myth
The idea that you need 20% down to buy a home is one of the biggest misconceptions around the homebuying process. And the data debunks the myth.
While there are benefits to putting that much money down, most first-time buyers put down far less.
Here’s why. Unless it’s stated by your lender, you typically don’t have to have a 20% down payment. There are even some loan options designed to help you get into a home with a much smaller upfront cost. As the Mo ...

 
Trying to break into the market without breaking the bank? You may want to look at fixer-uppers. The median listing price for the typical single-family home is $436,000. But for fixer-uppers? It’s only around $200,000. And if you’re doing the math, that’s about 54% difference. Now, a house that needs elbow grease isn’t going to be right for everyone. Repairs and updates cost time and money. But for handy buyers, that price gap could be what gets their foot in the door. Would you take on a house with potential if it helped you become a homeowner? DM me or drop a comment below. #FirstTimeHombuyer #BuyingTips #KeepingCurrentMatters ...

 
Buying a home when you have student loans is possible. Data shows 32% of first-time buyers have student debt. And the typical amount is $30,000. So, if you’ve been holding off on buying your first home because you thought you had to pay off those loans first. Or, because you assumed it just wasn’t possible for you to buy, it’s time to talk to a lender. #Homebuying #FirstTimeHomebuyer #KeepingCurrentMatters ...

Buying your first home is a big milestone – and the right support is going to make it a whole lot easier.
Because while this process might be brand new to you, it’s not new to your agent. They’ve helped plenty of first-time buyers through it. They know what works, what actually matters, and how you can move through the process with a lot less guesswork.
Here are a few real-world tips based on that experience of helping other first-time buyers.
Tip #1: Get Pre-Approved First
Rocket Mortgage says this is one of the most common mistakes first-time buyers make. And it’s easy to see why. Looking at homes online is fun. But doing it before you know your numbers? That’s risky. You don’t want to fall in love with a house that’s way outside of your financial comfort zone. That's a fast track for getting frustrated.
Instead, find your agent and talk to a lender early – before looking at any houses. With your lender ...

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