Your Path to Homeownership
Last updated: October 2026
Everything a first-time buyer needs to know — from the rent-vs-own math to credit, down payments, and finding the right home. Written in plain English, built for buyers using down payment assistance.
Buying your first home is part financial decision, part life decision. This guide walks through both — honestly, with no jargon and no sales pitch. Read it straight through or jump to the chapter you need.
Owning vs. Renting
The honest math on both sides — equity, stability, and when renting actually wins.
Chapter 2Buying Power
How much home you can afford, debt-to-income explained simply, and pre-qualification vs pre-approval.
Chapter 3Credit Score
What your score means, what lenders like to see, and five practical ways to raise it.
Chapter 4Down Payments & Closing Costs
The 20% myth, mortgage insurance in plain English, and how assistance programs cover your cash to close.
Chapter 5Finding Your Home
Wants vs needs, working with an agent, and new construction vs resale.
See what you qualify for
Tell us where you want to buy and how much you can put down. We'll match you with the assistance programs that fit — 100% combos, 1% down grants, or CalHFA — and walk you through every step.