Own your home in America. In your language.

Your first home, a home you buy with your parents, or helping them buy theirs. Get free, no-pressure advice from a licensed agent who speaks your language and understands your family.

I'm buyingOur family home: what's it worth?Mortgage calculator

What first-time buyers ask most

You don't have to be a citizen to own a home.Anyone can own property in the U.S. Getting a mortgage depends on your documents, income and credit, and there are loan types for many situations.
There's more than one kind of mortgage.Conventional, FHA, VA, and ITIN or "non-QM" loans from some lenders each have different rules. A lender or a free HUD-approved housing counselor can tell you which ones fit you.
You may not need 20% down.Many buyers put down 3–10%, and state and local programs can help first-time buyers with the down payment and closing costs. In New York, see SONYMA.
Buying with family is normal, and it can be smart.Co-buying with parents or siblings, a two-family house, or a home with a separate suite for grandparents can make the numbers work. Family can also help with the down payment as a gift, but lenders have rules for how gift money is documented, so ask before you move any money.
You'll sign a short agreement with your agent.Since August 2024, buyers sign a written agreement before touring homes. It says how your agent is paid. Often the seller covers it, but it's negotiable, so ask until it's clear.

Your path to the keys

1. Check your credit & budget

Free reports at annualcreditreport.com. A housing counselor can help you plan.

2. Get pre-approved

A lender confirms how much you can borrow. Sellers take you seriously.

3. Pick an agent who speaks your language

Someone who explains every step and every document.

4. Find the home & make an offer

Your agent compares prices and negotiates for you.

5. Inspection & appraisal

Never skip the inspection. It protects you from expensive surprises.

6. Closing day

Sign, pay closing costs, get the keys. Welcome home! 🎉

Mortgage calculator

Estimated monthly payment
$0

An estimate only. Includes principal, interest, taxes and insurance, plus mortgage insurance when you put down less than 20%. Long Island property taxes are often around 2% of the home's value. Your lender will give you exact numbers.

Free resources

Find a free HUD-approved housing counselorMany counselors speak Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Haitian Creole and more. CFPB: Buying a HouseStep-by-step tools from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. SONYMA: New York first-time buyer programsLow down payment loans and down payment assistance in New York State. Free credit reportsCheck your credit before you apply.