Buying Your First Home in York County? Start Here.

The amount you need depends on your loan program, purchase price, closing costs, and the terms of your offer. Some loan programs allow low or even no down payment for eligible buyers, but you may still need funds for items such as inspections, appraisal, earnest money, closing costs, and prepaid taxes or insurance.

A lender can give you a more accurate estimate based on your individual financial situation before you begin seriously shopping for homes.

No. Many home loan programs allow qualified buyers to purchase with less than 20% down, and some programs for eligible buyers may permit little or no down payment.

The amount that makes sense for you depends on the loan program, your finances, the property, and your goals. A lender can explain the available options, including any mortgage insurance or other costs associated with a smaller down payment.

In most cases, yes. Getting preapproved before seriously touring homes helps you understand your likely price range and gives you time to address any financing issues before you find a property you want to buy.

A preapproval can also make your offer more competitive because the seller can see that a lender has already reviewed key parts of your financial information. Keep in mind that a preapproval is not the same as final loan approval, which still depends on the property, appraisal, underwriting, and other lender requirements.

The timeline varies. Some buyers find the right home quickly, while others search for several months. Once an offer is accepted, the period from contract to closing is often measured in weeks and depends on financing, inspections, appraisal, title work, and the terms of the agreement.

It is usually better to focus on being prepared than on forcing the process into a specific number of days. I can help you understand the timeline at each stage and keep the moving pieces organized.

In addition to your down payment, you may need funds for items such as earnest money, inspections, appraisal, lender fees, title and settlement costs, prepaid property taxes or homeowners insurance, and other closing costs.

The exact amount depends on the property, loan program, contract terms, and financing structure. Before you make an offer, your lender and I can help you understand the major costs you should plan for so there are fewer surprises later.

After an offer is accepted, we’ll track the deadlines in your agreement and coordinate the next steps. Depending on your contract and financing, these may include inspections, an appraisal, title work, and your lender’s final review.

Stay in touch with your lender and provide requested documents promptly. We’ll discuss any issues and your options within the terms of your agreement.

As closing approaches, review your closing documents, confirm the funds needed, arrange utilities and insurance, and plan your move. We’ll coordinate the final walk-through and explain what to expect at settlement.

Before sending any funds, independently verify payment instructions with your settlement provider using a trusted phone number. Once settlement is complete and possession is authorized, it’s time for your next chapter.