Home Buying Financial Preparation:

Get Pre-approved, Not Just Prequalified: This shows sellers you are a serious buyer, giving you a competitive edge.

Improve Your Credit Score: Higher credit scores improve affordability and help secure better rates.

Explore Assistance Programs: Research state, county, and city-specific first-time homebuyer programs for down payment assistance.

Compare Lenders: Shop around with at least three lenders or a mortgage broker to find the best interest rates. And understand the difference between Your interest rate and APR.