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Make an offer for your next home purchase with confidence! Request a prequalification letter today.
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Get homebuying right the first time

Buying your first home is a big decision. Mountain America is here to help. Our team of mortgage experts will guide you through the first-time homebuyer loan process, ensuring you have an easy, worry-free experience. Best of all, you won't have to make a big down payment.

First-time homebuyer loan details

  • Get loans up to $651,567—loan limits may be higher depending on the county limits.
  • Seller can contribute up to 3% toward closing costs.
  • There are no prepayment penalties.

First-time homebuyer program benefits

  • Get up to 100% loan-to-value financing.*
  • Pay as little as $1,000 down.
  • Private mortgage insurance is not required.
  • Choose from fixed- and adjustable-rate options.
  • There are no income limitations.
  • Speed up closing with our Quick Close electronic mortgage process.

Estimate Your Mortgage Payments*

Today's interest rates

FAQs for first-time homebuyers

Who is considered a first-time homebuyer?

A first-time homebuyer is anyone who hasn’t owned a primary residence for three years or more.

How do you qualify for a first-time homebuyer loan?

Most first-time homebuyers can qualify for a first-time homebuyer loan with a 660 credit score and a $1,000 down payment. Lenders will also look at your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. Members with a credit score between 660-679 can have a max DTI of 41% and those with credit scores above 680 can have a max DTI of 43%.

How do you apply for a first-time homebuyer loan?

To apply for a first-time homebuyer loan, you will want to first get preapproved by a lender. The lender will check your credit history and then will need to verify your income and assets. You’ll need to provide the following for financial verification:

  • Recent pay stubs
  • Most recent W-2 form
  • Last two years of tax returns
  • Bank statement
  • Proof of down payment

Additional items may be required depending on an individual’s unique situation.

Is a first-time homebuyer loan worth it?

First-time homebuyer loans have many advantages, such as access to federally-backed loans, state programs, tax breaks and lower down payments.

How much can first-time homebuyers afford?

A basic rule of thumb for buyers is for their mortgage loan to be no more than three times their annual salary or household income. Other experts suggest that your monthly payment target should be approximately 28% of the buyer's gross income.

Which loan is best for first-time homebuyers?

Mountain America's first-time homebuyer program is an excellent choice for the reasons listed above. FHA loans are another great option as they offer a low down payment and are often more flexible with credit requirements.

Begin your journey to homeownership

Get started today by applying online or calling 1-800-277-7703. If you still have questions, schedule an appointment with one of our mortgage specialists.

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Home Loan Rates

Check today's mortgage loan rates.

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How Much Home Can You Afford?

Here are our 6 homebuying budget busters to consider.

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Meet with a Loan Officer

Our mortgage experts will answer your questions, help assess your financial situation and recommend the best mortgage program for your situation.

*Loans on approved credit. Actual APR based on creditworthiness. Information and interactive calculators are made available as self-help tools for independent use and are not intended to provide investment advice. We cannot and do not guarantee their applicability or accuracy in regard to individual circumstances. All examples are hypothetical and are for illustrative purposes. Seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding all personal finance issues. Actual rate, payment and costs could be higher. The payment amount does not include homeowner's insurance or property taxes which must be paid in addition to your loan payment. Get an official loan estimate before choosing a loan. Some limitations on loan amounts may apply based on county limits and/or loan product. FHA county loan limits apply for FHA loans.

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