Buying your first home starts with three numbers: the monthly payment you are comfortable with, the cash you need to close, and what a lender will pre-approve you for. Work out the first two with the tools below, then we connect you with a lender, show you homes that fit and walk you through every step to the keys.
What we do, step by step
- Your comfortable paymentStart from what you want to pay each month, not the top a lender will allow.
- Cash to closeDown payment, closing costs and what you will want left over after you move in.
- Pre-approvalWe introduce you to lenders who know first-time buyer programs; the lender checks your income, assets and credit.
- Homes that fitTours of homes in your budget, and an honest word about each one.
- Offer to keysYour offer, inspection, appraisal and closing, explained before each step happens.
What you get
- Your payment and cash to close worked out before you look
- Introductions to lenders who know first-time buyer programs
- A plain explanation of every step and deadline
- Someone to call after you move in
Start your first home plan
An agent who does this every week replies to you personally, with no obligation.
The tools we use with you
- Ready PlanHow much to save, by when, and the dates to get pre-approved and start touring. No credit check.
- Cash to closeYour cash to close and monthly payment, or a comfortable price from your income.
- True monthly costPrincipal, interest, the city's property tax, insurance, HOA and mortgage insurance, loan by loan.
- The buyer's guideEvery step from the payment to the keys, with this week's numbers.
- Our listingsHomes our agents are selling now.
Questions people ask
How much do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the loan. Some conventional loans allow as little as 3%, FHA loans require 3.5%, and VA loans can need nothing down for those who qualify. Closing costs come on top. Your lender confirms what applies to you.
What is the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?
Pre-qualification is a quick estimate from what you tell a lender. Pre-approval means the lender has checked your income, assets and credit, so sellers take your offer more seriously.
Are there first-time homebuyer programs in Utah?
Yes. Utah Housing Corporation offers loan programs for first-time and other qualifying buyers, and some lenders and cities have their own. We can introduce you to lenders who know them.
What are closing costs?
The lender, title and recording fees paid when the sale closes, plus prepaid taxes and insurance. Your lender gives you a written estimate early, so there are no surprises.
How long does buying a first home take?
From an accepted offer to closing is often 30 to 45 days. Getting pre-approved and finding the right home first can take a few weeks or a few months.
What should I avoid before closing?
New debt, large unexplained deposits, job changes and big purchases until you close. Ask your lender before any change.
Do I have to pay the buyer's agent?
How your agent is paid is agreed in writing before you tour homes. It may be paid by you, by the seller as part of the deal, or a mix. We go through it with you before you sign anything.
Start your first home plan
Tell us a little about your plans. An agent who does this every week replies to you personally.
