A visual companion to the first-time buyer guide - scroll to see the full path, or save/print as an image.

Your first home

Eight steps.
From renting to owning.

Going from renting to owning in Northern Virginia - the programs, the steps, and what to bring to your first conversation. All figures are illustrative.

Steps8pre-approval to keys
Program doors3conventional, FHA, zero down
Pre-approval1first step, sets your budget
The path, step by step
Step 1

Pre-approval

Submit your documents, find out exactly what you can afford, and get the letter that makes sellers take you seriously.

Phase Prep
Week 0-1
Step 2

Shop

Work with your Realtor to find the right home. The pre-approval tells you the budget; the letter gives you the power to move fast.

Phase Shop
Week 1-3
Step 3

Offer

Your Realtor writes a strong, competitive offer. Seller credits for closing costs can often be negotiated here.

Phase Contract
Week 3-4
Step 4

Inspection

A licensed inspector reviews the home. This is your best protection - never skip it.

Phase Contract
Week 4
Step 5

Appraisal

Your lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home's value. Required for most loan programs.

Phase Contract
Week 4-5
Step 6

Underwriting

The lender's final file review. Respond to any conditions quickly - this is what keeps closings on time.

Phase Contract
Week 5-6
Step 7

Clear to close

You're approved. Final closing disclosure lands here. Review it carefully and confirm the wire instructions.

Phase Close
Week 6-7
Step 8

Keys!

Sign, fund, and get your keys. You own a home. Review your equity and rate annually with your loan officer.

Phase Close
Week 6-8
Down payment + programs

Three doors, depending on your situation - quick reference.

Low down

Conventional options

Conventional 97 / Fannie Mae HomeReady / Freddie Mac Home Possible. No upfront MI premium; MI drops at 80% LTV.

Best pricing 680+ FICO
Credit flexibility
Mortgage insurance
Eligibility limits
Low down

FHA - flexible on credit

The most flexible program - upfront and monthly MI apply. A popular first-timer choice.

Starts at 620 FICO
Credit flexibility
Mortgage insurance
Eligibility limits
Zero down

No down payment required

VA Loan (veterans / active duty / surviving spouses). USDA Loan (eligible areas). Virginia Housing DPA (limits apply).

VHDA Income limits apply
Credit flexibility
Mortgage insurance
Eligibility limits

Scan to find where you are

Scan the code or reach out directly. We will tell you which program fits, what your payment looks like, and exactly what you need to get started - no obligation.

Scan to find where you are
Scan to start
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{{compliance.pendingLabel}}   Equal Housing Opportunity. {{lo.company}}, NMLS #{{lo.nmls}} (Company NMLS #{{compliance.companyNmls}}). Figures and the example household are hypothetical and for illustration only; not an offer, quote, or commitment to lend. All loans subject to underwriting approval, program eligibility, and creditworthiness. Rates, fees, programs, and terms are subject to change without notice. Down payment assistance programs have income limits, purchase price limits, and property eligibility requirements; consult your loan officer. Appreciation and equity projections are illustrative and not guaranteed. This co-marketed material is shared by each party at its fair-market-value cost consistent with RESPA Section 8; no party pays for referrals and none are required. NMLS Consumer Access: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org.