First-Time Homebuyers2022-03-04T02:28:23+00:00

First-Time Home Buyer Resource Center

Looking to buy your first home? Here you’ll find resources to help in your home-buying journey.

Gabe Mendez

Realtor

Get Started on Your Home Buying Journey

What’s The First Step?

As a first-time homebuyer, you may feel like you need to know absolutely everything about the home buying process before giving us a call—this is a huge misconception and often stresses first-time homebuyers out more than necessary. The first step you should be taking on your home buying journey is giving us a call. We know the process like the back of our hand and can guide you through it all as smoothly as possible.

If you think you don’t qualify yet, we’d still appreciate a call, we may be able to help guide you in the right direction before you make a move that might hinder your ability to buy a home instead of helping.

More First-Time Homebuyer Resources

We’ve Helped Hundreds. Let us Help You.

We’ve helped hundreds of first-time homebuyers just like you. Read what our past clients have to say about their home buying journey with the Gabe Mendez Group.

“ I thought it would take months before I would be ready to start looking for a house but I was approved almost instantly…”

Vanessa R.

Spring Valley, CA

“The whole Gabe Mendez group was very professional and went above and beyond to help me reach my goal of obtaining my first home.”

George P.

San Diego, CA

“This is not a team that tells you what you want to hear, this is a team that educates you, prepares you, and protects you, which is why I would recommend them, especially for first time home buyers.”

Kenia H.

Chula Vista, CA

“My husband and I were scared to take the first step, but Gabe & Jax made it easy by going at our pace. We were never pressured, and they were by our side every step of the way.”

Cecilia S.

Carlsbad, CA

First-Time Homebuyer Webinar

This info-packed webinar takes you from conceptualization of your new home to the exact steps you need to take to make your dream of buying a home a reality.

You will learn everything you need to know as a first-time homebuyer and are encouraged to ask any questions you may have. The webinar is held in English and En Español.

What You Will Learn:

  • What does my credit need to be?

  • How much income do I need to earn?

  • How to buy as Self Employed vs W2

  • Debt to income ratio

Follow us to stay tuned

Have questions during your home-buying journey? We’re here to help.

How does the escrow process work?2021-07-23T18:44:59+00:00

An escrow is used to temporarily hold a buyer’s earnest money until the home purchase is complete. It reduces risk on both sides of a transaction – in this case, the sale, purchase, and ownership of a home. We will guide you through the entire process and answer any questions you may have.

How much money do I need to buy?2021-07-23T18:54:35+00:00

Cash requirements are different for each buyer; they will vary depending on the home’s value, the type of mortgage, and where you buy real estate. Typically, the upfront cash needed to buy a house includes the down payment, 2-5% of your loan amount for closing costs, and, sometimes, at least two months’ worth of cash reserves.

What are property taxes?2021-07-23T18:58:40+00:00

Property taxes are paid by property owners and help cover costs for services in a community. They are levied on real estate by governments, typically on the state, county, and local levels.

Should I buy a house as is?2021-07-23T19:03:14+00:00

Buying a house “as-is” means the buyer must be willing to accept the house in its current condition, foregoing any opportunity to request that the seller make repairs or offer credits for problems with the property. These properties are usually purchased by investors or buyers looking to purchase a “fixer-upper” at a low price.

What do I need to buy a house?2021-07-23T19:31:56+00:00

First, you need to know if you qualify for a mortgage. If you do, the odds are you’re in good shape to buy a house; you’ll know your home loan options, as well as the minimum requirements to qualify. Lenders will look at your credit score, income, savings, debt, and documents to find out if you’re mortgage-eligible.

What is the best time to buy a house?2021-07-23T19:37:07+00:00

The best time to buy a house is usually late summer or early fall—when home prices are low and inventory is high. Winter is usually the cheapest time of year to purchase a home. However, keep in mind, no one can predict real estate trends with 100% accuracy so don’t let this make or break your home-buying decision.

How long does it take to buy a house?2021-11-16T14:29:53+00:00

Buying a house is a fairly lengthy process; the average time it takes to buy a house is 4 to 5 months but this is not always the case. This timeline depends on factors that are unique to you and your transaction. For a more accurate house buying timeline get in touch with us today.

How much is a down payment on a house?2021-07-23T20:27:45+00:00

With conventional financing, putting at least 20% down can improve your chances of getting approved and locking in a lower rate (and monthly payment). However, 20% down payments aren’t strictly required; the typical down payment for 60% of first-time homebuyers is 6% or less, according to NAR’s latest data. There are different types of loans that require lower down payments or no down payment at all.