First-Time Home Buyer Checklist

Your complete interactive guide to buying your first home. Track 24 essential steps from financial preparation to getting your keys.

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Quick Answer: What Do First-Time Home Buyers Need?

First-time home buyers need: 1) A credit score of 620+ (700+ for better rates), 2) Down payment of 3-20%, 3) Debt-to-income ratio under 43%, 4) Proof of income and employment, 5) Pre-approval letter from a lender. The typical timeline from starting your search to closing is 3-6 months.

Key Takeaways for First-Time Buyers

Get pre-approved before house hunting to know your budget and show sellers you're serious
Save for more than just the down payment - closing costs add 2-5% to the purchase price
A 620 credit score qualifies for most loans, but 700+ gets you better rates
The 28/36 rule: Housing costs should be ≤28% of income, total debt ≤36%
Total timeline from starting search to closing typically takes 3-6 months

Interactive Home Buying Checklist

Check off each step as you complete it. Your progress is saved automatically so you can come back anytime.

Home Buying Timeline Overview

Weeks 1-3

Preparation

• Check credit score
• Calculate budget
• Get pre-approved
• Find an agent

Weeks 4-8

House Hunting

• Create wish list
• Schedule viewings
• Research areas
• Make an offer

Weeks 9-12

Under Contract

• Home inspection
• Negotiate repairs
• Appraisal
• Review HOA docs

Weeks 13-16

Closing

• Lock rate
• Get insurance
• Final walkthrough
• Get your keys!

Popular Home Buying Guides

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First-Time Buyer Timeline

Step-by-step home buying timeline

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Closing Cost Breakdown

All closing costs explained

Credit Score for Mortgage

What score do you need?

View All Guides →

Ready to Start Your Home Buying Journey?

Use our interactive checklist above to track your progress through every step of buying your first home.

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