If you're wondering whether now is the right time to buy a home or refinance your mortgage, you're not alone. With all the headlines about inflation, mortgage rates, housing shortages, and market uncertainty, it’s no surprise that many people are hitting pause.
If you’re a first-time homebuyer trying to get into the market in 2025, you’re not alone — and thankfully, you’re not without help. Rising home prices and interest rates have made affordability a real challenge, but there’s good news: several new or expanded programs are offering more support this year to help you get the keys to your first home.
Many people still believe you need 20% down to buy a home. That’s simply not true. In today’s market, qualified buyers can purchase with far less—sometimes even zero down, depending on the loan program and eligibility.
Before browsing listings or falling in love with a dream home, the smartest first step is understanding how much home you can truly afford. This isn’t just about what a lender will approve—it's about what fits your lifestyle and long-term financial goals.
