Your first home, step by step, from thinking about it to keys in hand.
Buying your first home feels like a lot until someone lays the whole process out for you. This checklist covers every stage: credit, budget, documents, pre-approval, house hunting, escrow, and closing day. Nothing left to guess.
Get the checklist plus a free pre-approval review
Tell me where to send it. I will also reach out personally to answer your questions and see which programs you may qualify for.
You probably need less down than you think.
Here are the programs Edgar reviews with first-time buyers. The right one depends on your credit, income, the property, and your goals. That conversation is part of your free pre-approval review.
FHA
Flexible credit guidelines. A popular starting point for many first-time buyers.
Conventional
Low down payment programs for qualified buyers, with mortgage insurance that can be removed later.
VA
For eligible veterans, service members, and surviving spouses. No monthly mortgage insurance.
USDA
For homes in eligible rural and suburban areas, with income limits that vary by location.
Non-QM
Self-employed, investors, and anyone whose tax returns don't reflect their real income.
Down payment assistance programs can be layered on top of many of these options. Minimums shown are program minimums; your required down payment depends on credit approval, underwriting guidelines, and program eligibility.
A loan officer who walks with you, not a call center.
Big decisions deserve a real person. From the first conversation to your closing table, you'll work directly with Edgar, and you can reach him by phone, text, or email at every step.
Edgar Ibarra
Mortgage Loan Officer, Lower Mortgage LLC
NMLS #261963 | Lancaster, CaliforniaI'm happy to walk you through any step, review your options, and help you get pre-approved. Whether you're months away or ready now, reach out and we'll figure out the best path together.
Apply now with EdgarAnswers before you even ask.
If your question isn't here, it's probably a quick phone call. Edgar answers these every day.
Call (818) 359-2723How much do I really need for a down payment?
Depending on the loan program, minimum down payments can be as low as 0% (VA, USDA) or 3 to 3.5% (conventional, FHA). On top of that, many state and local down payment assistance programs can help cover your down payment or closing costs. Eligibility varies, so Edgar reviews what you may qualify for during your pre-approval.
What's the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?
A pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on what you tell a lender. A pre-approval involves a credit check and a review of your income, asset, and employment documents, so it carries much more weight. Sellers in competitive markets often expect a pre-approval letter with your offer.
I'm self-employed and my tax returns don't show my real income. Can I still buy?
Often, yes. Non-QM options include bank statement loans (12 to 24 months of statements), 1099-only loans, DSCR loans for investors that qualify on rental income, and asset-based loans. Ask Edgar which fits your situation.
What documents will I need?
Typically W-2s and federal tax returns for the last 2 years, pay stubs for the most recent 30 days, bank and asset statements for the last 2 months, a government-issued photo ID, and a gift letter if family is helping. Self-employed buyers also need 2 years of business returns and a year-to-date profit and loss statement. Step 2 of the checklist has the full list.
What should I avoid doing once I'm under contract?
Don't open new credit or finance big purchases, don't change jobs, don't make large undocumented cash deposits, and don't move money between accounts without asking your loan officer first. Any of these can affect your approval before closing.
How do I protect myself from wire fraud at closing?
Always verify wiring instructions by phone with your escrow officer using a phone number you already know, never one from an email. Wire fraud targeting home buyers is common, and a two-minute call is the best protection.
Ready to find out what you qualify for?
Get the checklist, then let Edgar review your numbers and map out your options, including down payment assistance programs you may be eligible for. No pressure, no obligation.