First-time home buyers

Featured resources

Mother looking at baby being held by father in their cozy home.

6-minute read

What credit score do you need to buy a house?

The credit score you’ll need to buy a house depends on the type of mortgage you’re applying for. Learn which loans are best for certain credit ranges.

Couple looking over documents for house with Realtor in front of property for sale.

9-minute read

13 common first-time home buyer mistakes and how to avoid them

First-time buyers often make mistakes when looking at homes, but this doesn’t have to be you. Learn how to avoid common first-time home buyer mistakes.

A couple viewing information together on a laptop.

5-minute read

The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) explained

RESPA protects prospective home buyers by increasing lender transparency and outlawing certain predatory real estate practices. Find out more here.

An Asian couple carrying boxes while moving into a new home.

6-minute read

The costs of buying a house that first-time home buyers should prepare for

Purchasing your first home is a major achievement – so make sure you're financially ready for it. There are several costs to consider when buying a house.

6-minute read

What are prepaid costs when buying a home?

Wondering what prepaid costs you’ll pay when buying a home? Learn what they are and how to calculate prepaid costs before closing day.

A couple reading, potentially exploring information related to homeownership or mortgages.

6-minute read

What is the average down payment on a house?

The average down payment on a house might not be reflective of your down payment. Learn about the typical down payment amount and what you should consider.

Real estate agent standing with couple in front of a house looking at documents in a folder.

6-minute read

What does pending mean in real estate?

If you’ve been house hunting, you might have wondered what “pending” means on a real estate listing. Read on to decode this real estate listing status.

An African American family holding new keys, symbolizing the purchase or acquisition of a new home.

7-minute read

How special-purpose credit programs can help achieve homeownership

Special-purpose credit programs allow borrowers from underserved populations a chance for certain benefits in qualifying for a mortgage. Read on for details!

A happy couple moving into their new place surrounded by boxes.

5-minute read

First-time home buyers classes: A guide

A first-time home buyers class can help you feel better-prepared for the home buying process. See what you can expect from a class for first-time home buyers.

Couple snuggling and laughing together on couch.

9-minute read

A guide to first-time home buyer programs, loans and grants

If you’re a first-time home buyer interested in a loan or grant, there are several government programs to help you. Discover your options and see if you qualify.

A neighborhood view with rows of suburban houses, tree-lined streets, and parked cars.

4-minute read

Zoom towns are on the rise: Is this lifestyle right for you?

The COVID-19 pandemic led to the rise of zoom towns as remote workers desired new living situations. Find out if buying a house in a zoom town is right for you.

A woman looking at a computer up close, suggesting online research or financial planning.

6-minute read

What does a title company do?

A title company is a third party that works on behalf of both the lender and the buyer. Learn more about what title companies do in the home buying process.

A woman and child sitting in a room, engrossed in conversation and surrounded by cozy furniture.

6-minute read

What is a down payment and how does it work?

A down payment is the percentage of a home's purchase price you pay up front. Learn how down payments work and how much you should put down on a house.

Woman writing on packing boxes, potentially depicting the process of packing or moving belongings.

4-minute read

What age can you buy a house? A legal and practical look at the question

In most states you must be 18 in order to buy a house. Learn some of the considerations you need to be aware of as a home buyer.

A couple looking out of a window, symbolizing contemplation or envisioning their future home.

4-minute read

First-time home buyers and down payments: 73% of buyers put down less than you think

Many believe they need a 20% down payment to buy a house, but is that true? Let’s look at the actual data surrounding first-time home buyers and down payments.

Kitchen appliances in a modern kitchen setting, highlighting various appliances.

3-minute read

When you buy a house, does it come with appliances?

It’s never too early to start negotiating the appliances that may or may not come with your home. Learn what’s non-negotiable and how to best plan for your move.

An inviting communal living space in a public house with cozy furnishings and vibrant decor.

4-minute read

Rocket Mortgage® and Detroit Housing Network help Detroiters achieve homeownership readiness

Rocket Mortgage and the Detroit Housing Network have a shared commitment to housing stability and vibrant, resilient Detroit neighborhoods. We are proud to partner to support your homeownership journey!

Neatly aligned townhouses or rows of residential buildings in a neighborhood setting.

5-minute read

[Women's history month] How black women have been undeterred in their determination to become homeowners - a reminder of the resilience within us all

Let’s remember the ways in which Black women have transcended systemic barriers in the past and found ways to build wealth through homeownership and use every resource available to us to keep breaking new ground.