The Essentials

Homeownership 101

Are you ready to own a home?

Homeownership has many benefits. But buying your first home can be a challenging process, especially if you’re the first in your family to become a homeowner. So we created this website to walk you through buying and owning a home, so you can know what it takes to call yourself a homeowner.

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Why own a home

Benefits of Homeownership

There are many benefits to homeownership. Owning your own home builds wealth and is often less expensive than renting. We often hear that homeownership is the American Dream, but we also know that this has not always been the case for everyone. Understanding the process and working with the right people is an important part of making the system work for us. Let’s explore the many advantages of being a homeowner.

A Road Map

What is the process for buying a home?

  1. Are you ready to buy a home?

    See if you’re in a position to buy a home.

  2. money icon

    How much can you afford?

    Start by figuring out how much you can afford to spend on a home.

  3. Help buying a home

    Then explore non-profit homeownership advisory services and downpayment assistance programs.

  4. Find a Lender and Agent

    Next, find a real estate agent and mortgage lender.

  5. Start Shopping

    Now you’re ready to shop for a home.

Help is out there

You May be Eligible for Down Payment Assistance

From grants to low-cost or deferred home loans, there are more than 2,000 down payment assistance programs for homebuyers in the U.S. Learn more about financial assistance for homebuyers.

Programs

2k

There are more than 2,000 down payment assistance programs in the country.

As little as

0 %

Some mortgages require no down payment, while others require as little as 3 percent.

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Are you financially ready?

How much can you afford?

Knowing how much you can afford is a pivotal early step when buying a home. Use an affordability calculator to understand better what you can afford to spend on a home.

family on couch

You may qualify for assistance

Get help buying a home

There are more than 2,000 down payment assistance programs in the country. Explore what financial and home buying help may be available to you.

Invest In Your Future

Your home could be the most valuable asset your family owns. And that value can grow over time, increasing your family’s wealth.