First-time Homebuyers Information

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Here’s what our underwriters take into consideration when reviewing applications from self-employed borrowers.

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about Self-employed? Here’s how to get a mortgage

Choosing the right neighborhood is one of the most important (and difficult) parts of buying a house. Here are some tips to help you make that decision.

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about How to decide where to buy a house

There is more to a mortgage than meets the eye. Here’s what a mortgage really is, how it works, and the different options available.

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about What is a mortgage

Discover the best places to live in New Jersey, what’s unique about the real estate market, how to find a New Jersey Realtor, plus 7 steps to buy a home.

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about How to stay sane when buying a home in NJ

Considering an out-of-state move? Don’t overlook these cities with lower costs of living and affordable homebuying options.

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about 10 of the most affordable cities in the US for homebuyers

Can you qualify for a mortgage? You might want to check your credit score. Learn how lenders handle your credit score and how you can improve it.

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about How your credit score affects your mortgage

Should you apply for a digital mortgage? Online lenders offer a wide range of benefits for homebuyers and refinancers who are looking to save time and money.

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about The benefits of working with an online lender

Is that home really for sale? Learn what it means when you see "contingent" vs "pending" next to a real estate listing—and when you can still put in an offer.

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about The differences between contingent vs pending home sales

Homeownership can improve your finances and quality of life, but there are costs to prepare for. We break them all down so you can decide to buy or not to...

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about Pros and cons of buying a house

So you're considering a local mortgage lender? If you care about face-to-face interaction, they can't be beat. But there are some conveniences they can't offer.

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about So you’re considering a local mortgage lender

Buying a home for the first time doesn’t have to be complicated. Formalize your budget, shop smart, and navigate the process with these pro tips.

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about 7 must-read first time homebuyer tips

Learn what it’s like to live in different types of houses, how to spot them, and their pros and cons, so you can find the best home for your lifestyle.

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about How to choose between different types of houses

The listing price isn’t the best way to gauge affordability. Look for these hidden costs of buying a home to accurately budget for your mortgage.

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about Shining a light on the hidden costs of buying a home

When you’re trying to determine whether it’s a smarter choice for you to rent or buy your home, you need to consider what is involved with renting vs. buying.

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about Are you ready to stop renting and buy your home?

When financing looks questionable, mortgage contingencies come into play. Find out how Better can provide assurances with funding.

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about Mortgage Contingency Explained: Importance for Buyers and Sellers

Looking for a house that truly fits your needs? Don't rely on a gut feeling. Get tips from a Better Real Estate Agent on how to know if a house...

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about A realtor's guide on finding the perfect home

Better mortgages aren't “one-size-fits-all." Learn how to find a mortgage that fits your goals and budget with insights from founder and CEO Vishal Garg.

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about How to find the mortgage loan that’s right for you

Each season has its pros and cons: We’ll help you identify your best time of the year to buy a house based on how you prioritize price, choice, and timing....

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about When is the best time of the year to buy a house?

To celebrate National Intern Day, a former Better.com intern will walk first-time homebuyers through homeownership lessons he learned during his internship.

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about 5 homeownership lessons I learned as a Better.com intern

Go from planning to closing with the complete home buying checklist—most of which can now be completed online with the help of Better.

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about The Definitive Home Buying Checklist
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