---
name: first-home-buyer
description: |
  Comprehensive guidance for first-time homebuyers covering financial readiness assessment, mortgage options (FHA, VA, conventional), pre-approval process, house hunting strategy, making competitive offers, inspections, and navigating the closing process including first-time buyer assistance programs. Use when the user asks about first home buyer or needs help with related topics. Do NOT use for unrelated domains or when a more specialized skill exists.
license: Apache-2.0
metadata:
  author: foundry-skills
  version: "1.0.0"
  tags: "home-buying personal-finance planning checklist"
  category: "personal-finance"
  subcategory: "major-purchases"
  depends: ""
  disclaimer: "educational-finance"
  difficulty: "intermediate"
---

# First Home Buyer

> **Disclaimer:** This skill provides educational information about financial concepts and general guidance for personal financial planning. It does NOT constitute financial advice, investment recommendations, or tax guidance. Individual financial circumstances vary significantly, and the information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional counsel. Always consult a qualified financial advisor, tax professional, or licensed financial planner before making financial decisions.

## When to Use


## Process

1. **Gather requirements.** Ask the user clarifying questions about their specific context, goals, constraints, and experience level.

2. **Analyze the situation.** Review the information provided and identify key factors, challenges, and opportunities relevant to first home buyer.

3. **Develop the framework.** Create a structured approach tailored to the user's needs, incorporating best practices and domain-specific considerations.

4. **Deliver actionable output.** Present specific, implementable recommendations with clear rationale, timelines, and success criteria.

5. **Address edge cases.** Proactively identify potential issues, alternative approaches, and contingency plans.

**Use this skill when:**
- User needs guidance on first home buyer
- User asks about first home buyer best practices or techniques
- User wants a structured approach to first home buyer

**Do NOT use this skill when:**
- A more specialized skill exists for the specific subtopic
- The request is outside the scope of first home buyer


## Questions to Ask First

Before diving into the home buying process, gather these critical details:

1. What is your current monthly income (gross and net) and employment history?
2. How much do you have saved for a down payment and closing costs?
3. What is your current credit score and credit history status?
4. Do you have any existing debt (student loans, car payments, credit cards)?
5. What area or areas are you considering, and what is the price range there?
6. Are you a veteran, active military, or eligible for VA benefits?
7. Is this your primary residence, and have you owned a home in the last 3 years?
8. What is your target timeline for purchasing?
9. Do you have a stable employment history (2+ years same field)?
10. Have you researched first-time buyer programs in your state or municipality?

---

## Phase 1: Financial Readiness Assessment

### Step 1: Credit Score Evaluation

Your credit score is the single most impactful factor in mortgage qualification and rate determination.

| Score Range | Rating | Typical Impact |
|-------------|--------|----------------|
| 760+ | Excellent | Best rates available |
| 700-759 | Good | Competitive rates |
| 660-699 | Fair | Higher rates, most programs available |
| 620-659 | Below Average | FHA eligible, limited conventional |
| 580-619 | Poor | FHA with 10% down minimum |
| Below 580 | Very Poor | Most programs unavailable |

**Credit improvement actions (if needed):**
- Pull free reports from AnnualCreditReport.com and dispute errors
- Pay down credit card balances below 30% utilization (10% is ideal)
- Avoid opening new accounts or making large purchases
- Keep old accounts open to maintain credit history length
- Set all accounts to autopay to prevent missed payments
- Allow 3-6 months for score improvements before applying

### Step 2: Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculation

Lenders use two DTI ratios:

**Front-End DTI (Housing Ratio):**
```
Monthly Housing Costs / Gross Monthly Income = Front-End DTI
Target: 28% or below (some programs allow up to 31%)

Housing costs include: Principal + Interest + Taxes + Insurance + HOA + PMI
```

**Back-End DTI (Total Debt Ratio):**
```
All Monthly Debt Payments / Gross Monthly Income = Back-End DTI
Target: 36% or below (FHA allows up to 43%, some exceptions to 50%)

Include: Housing costs + car payments + student loans + credit cards + child support
```

### Step 3: Savings Assessment

| Category | Typical Amount | Notes |
|----------|---------------|-------|
| Down Payment | 3-20% of purchase price | Varies by loan type |
| Closing Costs | 2-5% of purchase price | Lender fees, title, escrow |
| Earnest Money | 1-3% of offer price | Applied to purchase at closing |
| Home Inspection | $300-$600 | Paid upfront, non-refundable |
| Appraisal | $400-$700 | Often paid at application |
| Moving Costs | $1,000-$5,000+ | Often overlooked |
| Emergency Reserve | 3-6 months expenses | Lenders want to see reserves |
| Immediate Repairs | $1,000-$5,000 | New home surprises |

---

## Phase 2: Mortgage Options Comparison

### Conventional Loans
- **Down payment:** 3-20% (PMI required below 20%)
- **Credit score:** 620+ minimum (680+ for best rates)
- **PMI:** Automatically removed at 78% LTV, requestable at 80%
- **Loan limits:** Conforming limits vary by county (check FHFA.gov)
- **Best for:** Buyers with good credit and 5%+ down payment

### FHA Loans (Federal Housing Administration)
- **Down payment:** 3.5% with 580+ score; 10% with 500-579 score
- **Credit score:** 500 minimum (most lenders require 580+)
- **MIP:** Upfront 1.75% + annual 0.55-1.05% (for life of loan if <10% down)
- **Loan limits:** Set by county (check HUD.gov)
- **Best for:** Lower credit scores, minimal down payment funds
- **Drawback:** MIP for life of loan unless 10%+ down payment

### VA Loans (Veterans Affairs)
- **Down payment:** 0% required
- **Credit score:** No VA minimum (most lenders require 620+)
- **PMI/MIP:** None required
- **Funding fee:** 1.25-3.3% (can be financed; waived for disabled vets)
- **Eligibility:** Veterans, active duty, some surviving spouses, National Guard/Reserves
- **Best for:** Eligible veterans and service members

### USDA Loans
- **Down payment:** 0% required
- **Credit score:** 640+ typically required
- **Location:** Must be in USDA-eligible rural area
- **Income limit:** Cannot exceed 115% of area median income
- **Guarantee fee:** 1% upfront + 0.35% annual
- **Best for:** Moderate income buyers in rural/suburban areas

### First-Time Buyer Programs to Research
- State housing finance agency programs (down payment assistance)
- Municipal grants and forgivable loans
- Employer-assisted housing programs
- Good Neighbor Next Door (HUD program for teachers, law enforcement, firefighters)
- HomePath by Fannie Mae (foreclosure properties)
- Energy-efficient mortgage programs

---

## Phase 3: Pre-Approval Process

### Documents to Prepare
- [ ] Last 2 years of W-2s and tax returns
- [ ] Last 30 days of pay stubs
- [ ] Last 2-3 months of bank statements (all pages, all accounts)
- [ ] Government-issued photo ID
- [ ] Social Security number
- [ ] Employment verification (contact info for HR)
- [ ] If self-employed: 2 years business tax returns + P&L statement
- [ ] Gift letter (if receiving down payment gift from family)
- [ ] Explanation letters for any credit issues
- [ ] Rental payment history (12+ months)

### Shopping for Lenders
Get quotes from at least 3 lenders. Compare:
- Interest rate AND APR (APR includes fees)
- Origination fees and lender charges
- Points (each point = 1% of loan, typically reduces rate by 0.25%)
- Closing cost estimates (use Loan Estimate form for comparison)
- Lock period and float-down options
- Processing time and responsiveness

**Important:** Multiple mortgage inquiries within a 14-45 day window count as a single credit inquiry.

---

## Phase 4: House Hunting Strategy

### Defining Your Requirements

**Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves Matrix:**

| Category | Must-Have | Nice-to-Have | Dealbreaker |
|----------|-----------|-------------|-------------|
| Bedrooms | Minimum count | Extra room | Below minimum |
| Location | Max commute time | Walkability | School district |
| Condition | Move-in ready? | Updated kitchen | Major repairs needed |
| Size | Minimum sq ft | Bonus spaces | Too small for needs |
| Outdoor | Yard for pets/kids | Garden space | No outdoor area |
| Parking | Garage/driveway | 2-car garage | Street parking only |

### House Hunting Workflow
1. Set up automated searches on multiple platforms (Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com)
2. Drive neighborhoods at different times of day and week
3. Attend open houses even outside your target to calibrate expectations
4. Track every property visited with notes and photos
5. Compare properties systematically using a scoring spreadsheet
6. Move quickly on strong matches (have pre-approval letter ready)

### Red Flags During Viewings
- Fresh paint only in certain areas (covering damage)
- Strong air fresheners or scented candles (masking odors)
- Water stains on ceilings or walls (leaking roof or plumbing)
- Cracks in foundation, floors, or walls (structural issues)
- Doors that stick or do not close properly (foundation settling)
- Soft or bouncy floors (subfloor damage or structural problems)
- Musty smell in basement (moisture or mold)
- DIY electrical or plumbing work visible (code violations)

---

## Phase 5: Making an Offer

### Offer Components
- **Purchase price:** Based on comparable sales and market conditions
- **Earnest money deposit:** 1-3% shows serious intent
- **Contingencies:** Inspection, appraisal, financing, sale of current home
- **Closing date:** Typically 30-60 days from acceptance
- **Inclusions/exclusions:** Appliances, fixtures, window treatments
- **Escalation clause:** Optional automatic increase up to a ceiling
- **Personal property:** Washer/dryer, furniture, lawn equipment

### Offer Strategy by Market Condition

**Seller's Market (low inventory):**
- Offer at or above asking price
- Limit contingencies (but never waive inspection entirely)
- Larger earnest money deposit
- Flexible closing date
- Pre-inspection before offering
- Proof of funds letter

**Buyer's Market (high inventory):**
- Offer below asking price
- Request seller concessions for closing costs
- Include all standard contingencies
- Request repairs from inspection
- Negotiate inclusions

---

## Phase 6: Inspection and Due Diligence

### Home Inspection Checklist
- [ ] Hire a licensed, insured inspector (not one recommended by seller's agent)
- [ ] Attend the inspection in person (2-4 hours)
- [ ] Ask questions during the inspection
- [ ] Review the full report carefully
- [ ] Get specialist inspections if needed (see below)

### Specialist Inspections to Consider
| Inspection | When to Get It | Typical Cost |
|-----------|---------------|-------------|
| Radon testing | Always recommended | $150-$300 |
| Termite/pest | Required in many states | $75-$150 |
| Sewer scope | Older homes, trees near sewer line | $200-$400 |
| Mold testing | Musty smells, visible discoloration | $300-$600 |
| Roof inspection | Roof age 15+ years | $200-$500 |
| Foundation/structural | Cracks, uneven floors | $400-$800 |
| Well and septic | Rural properties | $300-$600 |
| Lead paint | Pre-1978 homes | $300-$500 |
| Chimney inspection | Working fireplace | $200-$500 |

### After Inspection: Decision Framework
1. **No significant issues:** Proceed to closing
2. **Minor issues (under $2,000):** Accept as-is or request credit
3. **Moderate issues ($2,000-$10,000):** Negotiate repair or price reduction
4. **Major issues ($10,000+):** Request repair, significant price reduction, or walk away
5. **Safety/structural issues:** Strongly consider walking away

---

## Phase 7: Closing Process

### Closing Timeline (Typical 30-45 Days)

| Week | Actions |
|------|---------|
| Week 1 | Offer accepted, earnest money deposited, inspections scheduled |
| Week 2 | Inspections complete, negotiate repairs, loan application finalized |
| Week 3 | Appraisal ordered and completed, title search initiated |
| Week 4 | Underwriting review, conditions cleared, title insurance issued |
| Week 5 | Final walkthrough, closing disclosure review (3 days before), closing day |

### Closing Day Checklist
- [ ] Review Closing Disclosure (received 3 business days before closing)
- [ ] Compare Closing Disclosure to original Loan Estimate
- [ ] Bring government-issued photo ID
- [ ] Bring cashier's check or wire transfer confirmation for closing costs
- [ ] Complete final walkthrough of property (same day or day before)
- [ ] Verify all negotiated repairs were completed
- [ ] Review all documents before signing
- [ ] Receive keys, garage remotes, alarm codes
- [ ] Confirm utility transfers
- [ ] Obtain copies of all signed documents

### Post-Closing First 30 Days
- [ ] Change locks immediately
- [ ] Set up homeowner's insurance (should be done before closing)
- [ ] Transfer all utilities to your name
- [ ] File homestead exemption (if applicable in your state)
- [ ] Update your address with USPS, employer, banks, subscriptions
- [ ] Locate and label main water shutoff, electrical panel, gas shutoff
- [ ] Test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
- [ ] Schedule any immediate maintenance or repairs
- [ ] Save all home-related receipts for tax purposes
- [ ] Set up a home maintenance calendar

---

## Common First-Time Buyer Mistakes to Avoid

1. **Not getting pre-approved before house hunting** -- wastes time on homes outside budget
2. **Draining all savings for down payment** -- leaves no emergency reserve
3. **Making large purchases before closing** -- changes DTI and can kill the loan
4. **Skipping the home inspection** -- can lead to tens of thousands in surprise repairs
5. **Choosing a home based on emotion alone** -- ignoring practical factors and resale value
6. **Not researching the neighborhood thoroughly** -- visit at night, weekends, rush hour
7. **Ignoring total cost of ownership** -- taxes, insurance, HOA, maintenance (budget 1-2% of home value per year)
8. **Waiving contingencies in competitive markets** -- removes your safety nets
9. **Not shopping multiple lenders** -- can cost thousands over the life of the loan
10. **Rushing the process** -- buying a home should be methodical, not impulsive

---

## Budget Planning Template

```
Monthly Housing Budget Worksheet:
-----------------------------------------------
Gross Monthly Income:          $__________
Target Housing Ratio (28%):    $__________

Estimated Monthly Costs:
  Mortgage Payment (P&I):      $__________
  Property Taxes (monthly):    $__________
  Homeowner's Insurance:       $__________
  PMI/MIP (if applicable):    $__________
  HOA Fees:                    $__________
  ----------------------------------------
  Total Monthly Housing:       $__________

  Actual Housing Ratio:        _________%

Additional Monthly Reserves:
  Maintenance (1% home value/12): $__________
  Utilities Estimate:              $__________
  ----------------------------------------
  True Monthly Cost of Ownership:  $__________
```

This guide provides a framework for the home buying journey. Every market, property, and buyer situation is unique. Work with qualified professionals at each stage to make informed decisions.


## Output Format

Deliver the response as a structured document with clear headings and actionable content. Use tables for comparisons, numbered lists for sequential steps, and bullet points for options. Include specific examples where applicable.

```
[First Home Buyer deliverable]
1. Context and objectives
2. Analysis or framework
3. Specific recommendations with rationale
4. Action items with timeline
```


## Example

**Input:** "Help me with first home buyer for a mid-size project."

**Output:** A complete first home buyer framework tailored to the specific context, with actionable steps, relevant considerations, and measurable outcomes.


## Edge Cases

- **Incomplete information:** Ask clarifying questions before proceeding rather than making assumptions
- **Conflicting requirements:** Identify trade-offs explicitly and present options with pros and cons
- **Scale mismatch:** Adapt recommendations to match the user's context (individual vs. team vs. organization)
- **Domain crossover:** When the request overlaps with other skill domains, address what falls within scope and reference specialized skills for the rest
