: While 20% is traditional, first-time buyers in 2025 put down a median of just 9% . Programs like FHA loans may allow as little as 3.5% .
: Treat your down payment fund like a non-negotiable bill by scheduling automatic transfers into a High-Yield Savings Account. 2. Strategic Team Assembly Complete 60 Day Home Buying Plan (Step-by-Step Guide) how to prepare to buy your first home
: Rather than relying solely on what a bank will approve, calculate a monthly payment that is realistic for your current income and expenses. : While 20% is traditional, first-time buyers in
: Aim for a score of 620+ for conventional loans; higher scores generally secure more favorable interest rates. Save for Upfront Costs : : While 20% is traditional