August 15, 2025

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Landy Liu

How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent for Your First Home

Buying your first home is a big deal, and the right real estate agent can make all the difference. We’ll show you how to find a real estate agent you can trust, what to look for in a buyer’s agent, and how to take advantage of Foyer Pros, local experts who offer exclusive perks for Foyer members.

August 14, 2025

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by

Landy Liu

The Real Cost of Buying Your First Home (Beyond the Price Tag)

When you're saving for your first home, it's easy to focus on just one number: the purchase price. But the truth? That’s just the beginning. In this guide, we’ll unpack the real costs of buying a house, from inspections to insurance, so you can feel prepared, not surprised.

August 8, 2025

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by

Landy Liu

How Credit Score Impacts Your Home Buying Process

Your credit score might be just a number, but it plays a major role in whether you get approved for a mortgage, what your interest rate looks like, and how much house you can afford.In this guide, we’ll unpack what credit scores really mean for first-time buyers, how to read yours, and how to boost it, no shame, just strategy.

August 6, 2025

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by

Landy Liu

How Much Should You Really Save for a Down Payment?

Buying your first home is exciting, but figuring out how much to save for a down payment can feel like one big question mark. This guide walks you through the real numbers, what they mean for your mortgage, and how to decide what’s right for you.

March 28, 2025

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McKenzie Hagan

Mortgage Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval: What Are They and When Should You Get One?

When embarking on your home-buying journey, you'll likely encounter two critical terms that can significantly impact your mortgage application: pre-qualification and pre-approval. While these terms might sound similar, they represent distinct steps in the mortgage process, each with unique implications for homebuyers.

March 25, 2025

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McKenzie Hagan

How Much Home Can You Afford on a $150,000 Salary?

Purchasing a home is a significant financial milestone, and understanding your purchasing power is crucial to making an informed decision. If you earn $150,000 annually and are considering a down payment of 5%, you'll need to carefully evaluate your Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio to determine the price range of a home you can comfortably afford. This guide will break down how to calculate your home affordability, taking into account a 35% DTI ratio and a 5% down payment.

March 18, 2025

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by

McKenzie Hagan

Am I Ready to Buy My First Home? A Complete Guide

The journey to homeownership is one of the most significant financial and lifestyle decisions you'll ever make. While owning a home represents stability, investment potential, and a place to call your own, it also comes with considerable responsibilities, costs, and commitments. This comprehensive guide will help you assess whether you're truly ready to take the plunge into homeownership or if you might benefit from waiting.

March 12, 2025

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McKenzie Hagan

USDA Loans for First-Time Homebuyers: The Complete Guide

Buying your first home is a significant milestone, but the financial hurdles can seem overwhelming. For many Americans, particularly those in rural and suburban communities, USDA loans offer an accessible path to homeownership that's often overlooked. These government-backed mortgages provide unique advantages that can make the difference between continuing to rent and owning your own home.

March 4, 2025

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McKenzie Hagan

How to Save for a Home in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide to Smart Home Buying Preparation

Buying a home remains one of the most significant financial milestones in many people's lives. In 2025, the housing market continues to evolve, presenting both challenges and opportunities for aspiring homeowners. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most effective strategies to save for your dream home, offering practical advice that accounts for the current economic landscape, emerging financial technologies, and smart saving techniques.Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade your living situation, the path to homeownership requires careful planning, disciplined saving, and strategic financial management. Our expert-backed strategies will help you build a robust savings plan, maximize your purchasing power, and turn your homeownership dreams into reality.

February 18, 2025

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McKenzie Hagan

How to Buy Your First Home in Oregon: A Complete Guide for 2025

Buying your first home in Oregon can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and knowledge, you can navigate the process successfully. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about purchasing your first home in the Beaver State, from initial planning to closing day.

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