FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS

First-Time Homebuyers

Your first home starts here.

Buying your first home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming when everything is new.

At ERA Key Realty Services, we believe first-time buyers deserve guidance that feels approachable, informative, and personalized. Our professionals are here to answer questions, explain the process clearly, and help you feel confident in every decision along the way.

From understanding financing to exploring neighborhoods and scheduling showings, we are here to help you navigate each step at your own pace.


Preparing for the Journey

A little preparation can make the home buying experience feel much more manageable and rewarding.

Understanding Your Financing Options

We can connect you with trusted professionals at HUNT Mortgage to help you explore financing options, understand monthly costs, and determine a comfortable budget before beginning your search.

Explore Massachusetts Communities

From Greater Boston and MetroWest to Merrimack Valley and Central Massachusetts, ERA Key Realty Services can help you explore communities that align with your lifestyle, commute, and long-term goals.


Helpful Tips for First-Time Buyers

Getting organized early can help reduce stress and make the process feel more manageable.

  1. Review your credit profile and monthly budget
  2. Speak with a mortgage professional about financing options
  3. Create a list of preferred locations and home features
  4. Save listings and track homes that match your goals

First-Time Homebuyer FAQs

If you are buying your first home, you probably have questions about money, mortgages, timing, and what to expect. Here are answers to common questions first-time buyers ask.

What should I do first when buying my first home?

A good first step is to understand your budget and begin learning about your financing options. Speaking with an experienced Mortgage Consultant at our mortgage company, HUNT Mortgage, early can help you get a clearer picture of what you may be able to afford.

Once you have a general budget in mind, an ERA Key Realty Services professional can help you begin exploring homes and communities that fit your goals.

How much money should I save before buying my first home?

The amount you should save depends on the home price, loan program, down payment, closing costs, inspections, moving expenses, and other upfront costs. While many buyers think they need 20% down, that is not always required.

Visit our mortgage partner, HUNTMortgage.com, to learn more about financing options that may be available.

Do first-time buyers need a 20% down payment?

Not always. Some mortgage programs may allow qualified buyers to purchase a home with a lower down payment. Your options can depend on your credit profile, income, debt, loan type, and overall financial situation.

A mortgage professional can help you review available programs and understand which options may fit your needs. Visit our mortgage partner, HUNTMortgage.com, to learn more.

What credit score do I need to buy my first home?

Credit score requirements vary by lender and mortgage program. A stronger credit profile may help you qualify for better loan terms, but buyers with less-than-perfect credit may still have options depending on their full financial picture.

Visit our mortgage partner, HUNTMortgage.com, to learn more about mortgage options and credit requirements.

Why is mortgage pre-approval important?

Mortgage pre-approval helps you understand your potential buying power before you start seriously shopping for homes. It can also make your offer more competitive because sellers can see that you have already started the financing process.

Visit our mortgage partner, HUNTMortgage.com, to learn more about mortgage pre-approval.

How do I decide how much house I can comfortably afford?

Affordability is about more than the purchase price. First-time buyers should consider the monthly mortgage payment, property taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, commuting costs, and other monthly obligations.

Visit our mortgage partner, HUNTMortgage.com, to learn more about financing and home affordability.

What closing costs should first-time homebuyers expect?

Closing costs are expenses paid near the end of the transaction and may include lender fees, title services, taxes, insurance, recording fees, and other costs related to purchasing the property.

Because closing costs can vary by home, location, and loan type, it is helpful to review estimated costs early in the process. Visit our mortgage partner, HUNTMortgage.com, to learn more.

Is buying better than renting in Massachusetts?

The decision to buy or rent depends on your finances, lifestyle, timeline, and long-term goals. Renting may offer flexibility, while buying can provide stability and the opportunity to build equity over time.

An ERA Key Realty Services professional can help you explore local market conditions and decide whether buying may be the right next step.


Ready to start exploring?

Connect with an ERA Key Realty Services professional and take the first step toward homeownership.

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