Beyond the down payment (minimums are typically 3% for conventional and 3.5% for FHA), expect closing costs to range from 1.5% to 5% of the purchase price. 2. Assemble Your Professional Team
Buying a home in 2026 requires more than just browsing listings; it demands a strategic financial foundation to navigate a market where prices remain high and inventory is slowly balancing. 1. Build Your Financial Foundation how to go about buying a home
Before touring homes, you must prove your "Capacity, Capital, Credit, and Collateral" to lenders. Beyond the down payment (minimums are typically 3%
Your agent and lender should be in direct communication to help you win in competitive markets. 7 Tips for First-Time Homebuyers - DFPI 7 Tips for First-Time Homebuyers - DFPI Most
Most conventional loans require a minimum score of 620 , while FHA loans can go as low as 500–580 with a higher down payment. Use official sites like AnnualCreditReport.com to fix errors months in advance.