First-time homebuyer? Purchasing your first home can be both an exciting and overwhelming endeavor. Here are some helpful tips from Traditional MLO Allison Roberts on where to start:

Saving and budgeting -

How much of a down payment do you have? When you know what you can put down, determine what you want your monthly payment to be.

Credit score -

Are you current on bills and payments? Avoid opening new lines of credit, and don’t cancel any credit cards at this time.

Choose a lender to work with -

This person will help you get pre-qualified for a mortgage, research different programs and shop for the best deals.

Choose a realtor you trust and start shopping -

Decide what you are looking for in your home and visit properties you're interested in. Be sure to take photos and notes. When you're ready, make an offer!

Closing -

Do a final walk-through of the home, close and move in!