Explain mortgage pre-approval, down payments, and closing costs.
What is First-Time Buyer Steps ?
15 Sept 2026

*A mortgage pre-approval is a lender's conditional commitment for a specific loan amount, helping you set a budget and show sellers you are a serious buyer.
*An evaluation where a lender checks your financial documents to see how much money they will lend you.
*W2s, recent pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements.
*It gives you a clear price range and proves to sellers that your offer is backed by real financing.
*The cash amount you pay upfront when buying a home.
* Typically ranges from 3% to 20% of the total purchase price.
*: A higher down payment lowers your monthly loan amount and can eliminate the need for private mortgage insurance.
* Fees paid to finalize your real estate transaction.
* Usually ranges from 2% to 5% of the home's purchase price.
* Loan origination fees, home appraisals, title insurance, and prepaid taxes.*