You may need less money than you think. Depending on the loan program, qualified buyers may be able to purchase with 0% down through certain USDA or VA loans, around 3% down with some conventional programs, or 3.5% down with FHA financing. You'll also want to budget for closing costs, inspections, appraisal costs, and your initial deposit. Every situation is different, so one of the first things I do with buyers is help them understand what their realistic cash-to-close could look like.

No. The idea that you need 20% down is one of the biggest misconceptions among home buyers. Many buyers purchase with significantly less, and some eligible buyers can qualify for zero-down financing. Putting 20% down can have advantages, but it is absolutely not a requirement for most buyers.

There is no single credit score required to purchase a home. Different lenders and loan programs have different requirements, and factors such as income, debt, employment history, down payment, and the type of mortgage all play a role. Even if you think your credit isn't ready, talking with a lender can help you determine exactly where you stand and what you may need to improve.

Closing costs vary based on the purchase price, loan, taxes, insurance, lender fees, title costs, and other factors. Rather than relying on a generic percentage, I recommend getting an estimate based on the specific property and financing you're considering. In some transactions, buyers can also negotiate for the seller to contribute toward eligible closing costs.

Yes. Depending on the loan program and terms of the transaction, you may be able to negotiate a seller concession, often called seller assist, toward eligible closing costs. Whether a seller is willing to provide assistance usually depends on the strength of your offer and current market conditions.

Yes. Getting pre-approved is one of the best first steps in buying a home. It gives you a better understanding of your price range and estimated payment and puts you in a stronger position when you're ready to make an offer. It can also prevent you from falling in love with a home before knowing whether the financing works.

The timeline varies, but once you're under contract, many financed purchases take roughly 30–60 days to reach settlement. Finding the right home could take a day or several months. Your financing, inspections, appraisal, title work, negotiations, and the terms agreed upon with the seller can all affect the timeline.

An inspection is generally a smart investment because it can help you better understand the condition of the property before completing the purchase. Depending on the property, buyers may also consider specialized inspections or testing for things such as radon, sewer lines, wells, septic systems, pests, or other concerns. Your options also depend on the inspection terms negotiated in your agreement.

A low appraisal doesn't automatically mean the transaction is over. Depending on the contract, financing, and circumstances, the buyer and seller may renegotiate the price, challenge the appraisal when appropriate, restructure the financing, have the buyer cover some or all of the difference, or potentially terminate under an applicable contingency.

Agent compensation is negotiable and should be clearly explained in your buyer agency agreement. Depending on the transaction, compensation may come from the seller or listing broker, the buyer, or a combination. Buyers should understand exactly how representation and compensation work before they start making offers.