The amount you can afford depends on your income, monthly debts, credit score, down payment, and current interest rates.

A common guideline is to keep your total monthly housing payment (including principal, interest, taxes, and insurance) at or below 28–30% of your gross monthly income. Lenders also consider your total monthly debt when determining how much you qualify to borrow.

Need help getting started? I’d be happy to connect you with a local lender and help you find a home that fits your budget.

Your down payment depends on the type of loan you choose. While 20% is often mentioned, many buyers qualify with much less. Some conventional loans require as little as 3%, FHA loans require 3.5%, and eligible USDA and VA loans may offer 0% down. I’ll help you explore your options and connect you with a trusted lender to find the best fit for your situation.

Pre-qualification is a quick estimate of what you may be able to afford based on information you provide. Pre-approval is a more detailed review of your income, credit, and finances by a lender. A pre-approval gives you a stronger position when making an offer and shows sellers you’re a serious, qualified buyer.

Your credit score plays a big role in the interest rate you qualify for. In general, a higher credit score can help you secure a lower mortgage rate and lower monthly payments, while a lower score may result in a higher rate. If you’re unsure where your credit stands, I can connect you with a trusted lender who can review your options and help you prepare for homeownership.

The homebuying process typically takes 30–45 days from the time your offer is accepted to closing. The timeline can vary depending on your financing, inspections, appraisal, and any negotiations. I’ll guide you through each step to help keep your transaction on track.

Yes! Many self-employed buyers qualify for a mortgage. Lenders typically review your income, tax returns, bank statements, and overall financial history to determine eligibility. A trusted lender can help you understand your options and what documentation you’ll need to get started.

Your monthly mortgage payment typically includes principal, interest, property taxes, and homeowners insurance (often called PITI). If your home is in a neighborhood with an HOA or requires mortgage insurance, those costs may also be included in your monthly payment. Your lender will provide a detailed estimate before you close.

The cost to sell a home varies, but sellers typically pay real estate commissions, attorney fees, prorated property taxes, and any agreed-upon seller concessions or closing costs. The exact amount depends on your home, the terms of your sale, and local market conditions. I’ll walk you through all expected costs upfront so there are no surprises at closing.

Yes! If you qualify, USDA and VA loans offer 100% financing, meaning no down payment is required. Eligibility depends on factors like your location, military service (for VA loans), income, and credit. I can help you explore your options and connect you with a trusted lender to see which loan program is right for you.