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First-Time Homebuyers

Start with clarity - move forward with confidence.

Buying your first home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right information and guidance, you can take the next step with confidence.

Get Pre-Approved Talk to a Loan Officer

What do you want to understand?


How much can I afford?

Understand what goes into a monthly payment and what fits your budget

Explore mortgage calculators


What does the process look like?

From pre-approval to closing - know what to expect at each step.

View the homebuying process


What do I need to get started?

Learn what documents and information you’ll need for pre-approval.

See what to prepare


Are there programs or grants available?

There may be options that help reduce upfront costs.

Explore homebuyer programs

Why pre-approval matters

Getting pre-approved is one of the most important first steps in the homebuying process.

A pre-approval helps you:

  • Understand what you can comfortably afford 
  • Shop with confidence 
  • Strengthen your offer when you find the right home 
  • Move quickly in a competitive market 
  • Avoid surprises later in the process 

At The Equitable Bank, pre-approvals are reviewed locally by a team that understands the market and can help you move forward with confidence.

Learn more about pre-approval

Homebuying - at a glance

1

Get Pre-Approved

2

Find a Home

3

Make an Offer

4

Complete Inspections & Appraisal

5

Close and Get Your Keys

What goes into your monthly payment?

Understanding your payment helps you plan with confidence.

  • Purchase price and down payment
  • Interest rate and loan term
  • Property taxes and insurance
  • Mortgage insurance (if applicable)

Our goal is to help you find a payment that fits your overall financial picture.

Helpful resources to get you started

Helpful resources to get you started

Education Hub

Listen to recent episodes

Common questions

How much do I need for a down payment?

Most conventional loans require as little as 3% down for qualified first-time homebuyers and 5% down for many other conventional purchases.

What does my credit impact?

Your credit helps determine your loan type, interest rate and monthly payment - we’ll walk through it with you.

Do I need to be ready right now?

No – talking to a lender can help you prepare and set expectations.

How long does the process take?

Most purchases take about 30–45 days, depending on the situation.

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