Buying Programs First-time buyers may find state-based programs to help them enter the market. Don’t ignore this opportunity, as it could mean receiving thousands of dollars in assistance.

Shop Around If you don’t have time to check out each potential lender individually, use a mortgage broker to find the most suitable loan. They’ll help you avoid buying the wrong mortgage.

Ask About Fees Check all the fees associated with the loan. You can buy down your interest rate, but you should also check all the loan-related rules, including those that demand fees for early cancellation and accelerating repayments.

Pre-qualifying A pre-approved loan does not guarantee you’ll receive a loan or one at the interest rate you assumed you’d pay. Financial markets move quickly, and you’ll be as exposed as everyone else to its risks. Always make your offer conditional on a loan approval.

Down Payment It’s a myth that you must have 20% of the asking price to qualify for a loan. Many lenders, including Fannie Mae (3%), offer more attractive thresholds. However, if you’re under the 20% threshold, your lender will demand you take out private mortgage insurance, which is a significant cost that affects the amount of money a lender will give you.

Instant Loans They don’t exist for mortgages. A lender will want to value the property you wish to purchase to check you’re not spending too much of their money. There’s also a lot of documentation to be signed. Lenders take several weeks to come up with the money. Mortgages are not part of the “Immediate Gratification Economy”.