A clear path from application to keys
Buying your first home is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. Between loan options, contracts, inspections, and closing costs, it’s easy to feel like everyone else speaks a language you don’t yet understand.
The good news? There is a clear, step-by-step path from dreaming about homeownership to holding the keys. Here’s your first-time homebuyer roadmap.
Step 1: Get Pre-Approved (Before You Shop)
Before looking at homes, you’ll want a true mortgage pre-approval. This tells you:
- How much home you can afford
- What your monthly payment will look like
- What loan programs you qualify for
- That sellers will take your offer seriously
Skipping this step is one of the most common first-time buyer mistakes.
Step 2: Explore First-Time Buyer Programs
Many buyers don’t realize how many assistance programs are available, including:
- Low-down-payment conventional loans
- FHA loans with flexible credit guidelines
- VA loans for eligible service members
- USDA zero-down loans for qualifying rural areas
- Down payment assistance programs (grants or forgivable loans)
At Affinity Home Lending, we help match you with the programs that best fit your goals and financial picture.
Step 3: Find the Right Home (With the Right Agent)
A great agent helps you:
- Understand neighborhoods and pricing
- Spot red flags during showings
- Write strong offers
- Navigate inspections and negotiations
Your lender and agent should work as a team to protect you at every stage.
Step 4: Make an Offer & Submit Earnest Money
Once you find “the one,” your agent will help you submit an offer with:
- Purchase price
- Earnest money deposit
- Inspection and financing contingencies
- Closing timeline
Your earnest money shows you’re serious and is later credited toward your closing costs.
Step 5: Appraisal, Inspection & Underwriting
After you go under contract:
- The home is inspected
- The appraisal confirms value
- Underwriting verifies your documents
This is where preparation pays off. Buyers who are organized tend to move through this phase smoothly.
Step 6: Clear-to-Close & Closing Day
Once all conditions are cleared, you receive the clear-to-close, review your final numbers, and sign closing documents. Then… you get the keys.
Common First-Time Buyer Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying before getting pre-approved
- Changing jobs or making large purchases mid-process
- Skipping inspections
- Draining savings completely at closing
- Not asking questions early enough