For first-time buyers

The first home is the hardest. We make it simpler.

Buying your first home is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make. Our agents have walked thousands of first-time buyers through every step, from pre-approval to keys in hand.

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Step by step

Eight steps from pre-approval to keys in hand.

The path is the same whether you are buying your first home or your last. What changes is who walks it with you.

Check your credit

Review your credit report and score. Aim for at least 620 for conventional loans or 580 for FHA. Dispute any errors and pay down outstanding debts.

Get pre-approved

Meet with a lender to determine how much home you can afford. A pre-approval letter shows sellers you are a serious buyer.

Find an agent

Work with an experienced REALTEAM agent who knows the local market and can guide you through the entire process.

Start searching

Browse listings, attend open houses, and tour homes that match your criteria, budget, and desired neighborhoods.

Make an offer

Your agent will help you craft a competitive offer based on comparable sales, market conditions, and your budget.

Home inspection

Hire a licensed inspector to evaluate the property. This protects you from unexpected repairs and gives you negotiation leverage.

Secure financing

Finalize your mortgage, lock in your interest rate, and provide all required documentation to your lender before closing.

Close and move in

Sign the paperwork, receive your keys, and celebrate. Welcome to your new home.

Programs

Money on the table you may not know about.

Down payment assistance, low-down conventional loans, hero discounts. Many buyers qualify for more than they think.

MSHDA down payment assistance

Michigan State Housing Development Authority offers up to $10,000 in down payment assistance for eligible buyers.

Learn about MSHDA

FHA loans

Federal Housing Administration loans require as little as 3.5% down with more flexible credit requirements.

Conventional 97

Put as little as 3% down on a conventional loan. Available to buyers with strong credit who want lower monthly PMI.

Homes for Heroes

Heroes like teachers, healthcare workers, first responders, and military members can save significantly on their home purchase.

Learn about Homes for Heroes

Avoid the pitfalls

Four mistakes that cost first-time buyers the most.

Skipping pre-approval

Without a pre-approval, you risk falling in love with a home outside your budget and losing out to prepared buyers.

Making large purchases before closing

Buying a car, furniture, or opening new credit accounts can change your debt-to-income ratio and jeopardize your mortgage approval.

Waiving the home inspection

Skipping the inspection to be more competitive can lead to thousands of dollars in unexpected repair costs after closing.

Not budgeting for closing costs

Closing costs typically run 2-5% of the purchase price. Plan for title fees, appraisals, taxes, and insurance escrow.

Run the numbers

Estimate your monthly payment.

See what your payment could look like based on price, down payment, and interest rate.

Open mortgage calculator

Ready when you are

Work with an experienced REALTEAM agent.

Our agents specialize in first-time buyers. Pre-approval through closing day, we will guide you home.

Get started today