Buy Your First Home with Confidence
Your First Home Starts Here
Buying your first home is exciting (and a little overwhelming). The Sharpe Mortgage Team helps first-time homebuyers across the Triad and Southeast understand their options, build a clear plan, and feel confident from pre-approval through closing.
Even if you’ve never owned a home—or haven’t owned one in the last three years—you may qualify as a first-time homebuyer. That can open the door to special loan programs, down payment assistance, and more flexible guidelines designed to help you get into your first home sooner.
You don’t have to know every term or program yet. You just need a Sharpe game plan—and a team that will walk with you step by step.
What to expect from the process
Know your budget before you start house hunting.
We look at your income, credit, monthly budget, and savings to help you understand your price range and what your payment could look like. You’ll walk away with a clear number instead of a guess.
Compare your best options and build a smart plan.
Based on your goals, we’ll explain programs like Conventional, FHA, VA (if you’re eligible), USDA, and any assistance options that might fit. You’ll see how each option affects your payment and cash to close.
Make strong offers with clarity and peace of mind.
Move between loan types—for example, FHA to Conventional to remove mortgage insurance, or ARM to fixed‑rate for more stability.
We guide the process and keep everything moving smoothly.
We coordinate with your Realtor, attorney, and other partners, keep you updated through underwriting and appraisal, and help you get to a smooth closing day.
OUR TEAM CAN WALK YOU THROUGH OUR
First-time homebuyer loan options
Conventional loans for first‑time buyers
Conventional loans may allow as little as 3% down for qualified first-time homebuyers and are often a great fit if you have strong credit and some savings.
FHA loans
FHA loans are designed for buyers who need more flexibility with credit or down payment requirements and are popular with first-time buyers who want more forgiving guidelines.
VA loans
VA loans are available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and some surviving spouses, and they often allow no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance.
USDA loans
USDA loans are designed for qualifying buyers purchasing in eligible rural and small-town areas and may offer zero down payment if income and property requirements are met.
How much do I need for a down payment?
Many first‑time homebuyers think they must have 20% down. That’s rarely required. Depending on your situation:
- Some programs allow as little as
0–3% down, plus closing costs.
- Gift funds, certain assistance programs, or seller credits may help with part of your upfront costs.
We’ll help you understand the total cash needed (down payment, closing costs, and reserves) and what’s realistic for your timeline.
Common first-time buyer questions we answer
How much house can I afford?
We’ll walk through a budget that includes not just your mortgage payment, but taxes, insurance, and realistic monthly expenses.
Will my student loans keep me from buying?
Not necessarily. Different programs treat student loans differently. We’ll show you how they factor into your approval and what options you have.
What if my credit isn’t perfect?
That’s okay. We’ll review your credit, talk about which loan types fit, and, if needed, suggest a plan to get you ready.
How long does it take to close?
Timelines vary, but many first‑time buyers can close in a similar timeframe to repeat buyers when documents are provided quickly and the property cooperates.
Your first home, with a Sharpe plan
You don’t have to navigate your first home purchase alone—or guess your way through rates, terms, and loan programs. Sharpe Mortgage Team is here to answer your questions, create a tailored first‑time buyer plan, and keep you informed at every milestone.
