Note: This post is part of an ongoing series aimed at helping first-time homebuyers.

If you're thinking about buying your first home, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be the first item on your to-do list. So, what does that mean and why do you need it?

Pre-approval means ...

Note: This post is part of an ongoing series aimed at helping first-time homebuyers.

Closing costs are the costs associated with “closing” the purchase deal. These costs can include legal and administrative fees related to the home purchase. Closing costs are additional to the purchase price of the home.

Closing ...

Note: This post is part of an ongoing series aimed at helping first-time homebuyers.

Seller assist is a feature of some loan programs that allows the seller to pay for some or all of the buyer's closing costs. This can be an attractive option for buyers who are low ...

Note: This post is part of an ongoing series aimed at helping first-time homebuyers.

Earnest money is a deposit made by the buyer that shows their intention and ability to purchase a home. Oftentimes, a contract will require forfeiture of the deposit if the buyer defaults. Also known as an ...