First-time home buyers

Featured resources

Mother in kitchen cooking while father feeds child in high chair in dining room.

12-minute read

15 first-time home buyer tips

First-time home buyers may find themselves overwhelmed by the process of purchasing property. Here are 15 tips to help you on your home buying journey.

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

5-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.

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

4-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 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....

5-minute read

First-time home buyer qualifications: What to know

First-time home buyers should learn what lenders require to get a mortgage as well as the resources available to help making buying a home more affordable.

Couple snuggling on couch and reviewing information online on open laptop.

5-minute read

Down payment assistance programs and grants: What they are and how they work

Need help buying a home? Explore the different types of down payment assistance programs and grants available to you today.

Man and woman going over details of partnership at kitchen table.

7-minute read

What is a buyer consultation?

In a buyer consultation, you’ll meet your potential real estate agent to discuss your needs and review the buying process. Learn what to expect.

Male loan officer carefully explaining mortgage details on computer screen to engaged woman customer.

6-minute read

What is section 8 housing?

The Section 8 Housing program provides low-income, disabled and elderly individuals with safe and sanitary shelter. Learn how to apply for Section 8.

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 listin...

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!...

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 yo...

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 y...

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.

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 p...

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 pla...

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 part...

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 us...