Buying your first home can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. At Bootcamp For Buyers, we specialize in helping first-time homebuyers understand their options, save money, and feel confident every step of the way. This guide breaks down everything you need to know in 2025.
What Makes You a First-Time Homebuyer?
The definition might surprise you. According to HUD, you’re considered a first-time homebuyer if:
- You haven’t owned a home in the last 3 years
- You’re a single parent who only owned a home with a former spouse
- You’ve only owned a mobile home or property not permanently affixed
This broad definition opens the door to many financial assistance programs you might not realize you qualify for.
Step 1: Know Your Budget
Before shopping for a home, you need to understand what you can afford. Here’s how:
Get Pre-Approved
This gives you a realistic price range and shows sellers you're serious. It also reveals your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and interest rate options.
Include Everything in Your Budget
- Mortgage principal and interest
- Property taxes
- Homeowners insurance
- HOA fees (if applicable)
- Maintenance and utilities
Step 2: Explore Down Payment Assistance (DPA)
Many first-time buyers think they need 20% down. That’s not true. In fact, with DPA, you could pay as little as 0–3% upfront.
Types of Assistance Programs
- Grants: Money you don’t have to repay
- Forgivable Loans: Loans that disappear after a few years of living in the home
- Deferred Loans: Paid only when you sell or refinance
Where to Find Them
Assistance programs exist at the local, state, and national level. Bootcamp For Buyers helps you identify which programs you’re eligible for based on your location and income.
Step 3: Understand Tax Credits and Deductions
Tax incentives can make homeownership more affordable. Ask your lender or tax advisor about:
- Mortgage Credit Certificates (MCCs)
- Mortgage interest deductions
- Property tax deductions
Even if you don’t qualify for every credit, many states offer first-time buyer refunds or tax breaks.
Step 4: Choose the Right Loan Type
Not all mortgages are created equal. As a first-time buyer, you’ll likely encounter these popular loan types:
- FHA Loan: Requires just 3.5% down and is lenient on credit
- Conventional Loan: Great for buyers with strong credit and low debt
- VA Loan: 0% down for veterans and active military
- USDA Loan: 0% down for rural homebuyers with moderate income
Your lender will help you compare monthly payments, PMI (private mortgage insurance), and long-term costs.
Step 5: Avoid Common Mistakes
Here are some of the biggest mistakes new buyers make — and how to avoid them:
- Not checking your credit report in advance
- Skipping the pre-approval process
- Ignoring assistance programs
- Underestimating closing costs
- Letting emotions drive your decisions
Step 6: Get Expert Help
The right team makes all the difference. That includes:
- A buyer-focused real estate agent
- A lender who specializes in first-time buyers
- A housing counselor (optional but helpful)
At Bootcamp For Buyers, we can connect you with experts who work with first-time buyers every day.
Bonus: What to Do After You Move In
Your homeownership journey doesn’t end at closing. After moving in:
- Apply for your homestead exemption (if applicable)
- Review your new budget with updated housing costs
- Start a home maintenance schedule
- Consider refinancing in the future to lower your interest rate
Conclusion: Let Bootcamp For Buyers Be Your Guide
Buying your first home is a big step — but you don’t have to take it alone. Bootcamp For Buyers was built to walk you through every phase, from your first question to your first set of house keys.
Use our tools, explore state-specific assistance programs, and get matched with professionals who put first-time buyers first. You’ve got this — and we’ve got your back.