First-Time Buyers
You might already be able to afford this.
A lot of renters assume homeownership is years away, often because no one has shown them what's actually available. Kayvan actively researches specialty lending programs so his buyers don't miss an opportunity they didn't know existed.
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Renting vs. Owning
You might be closer than you think
If you've been renting and assumed buying is out of reach, you're not alone — and you might be working from outdated assumptions. The idea that you need 20% down or spotless credit to qualify for a mortgage isn't true for everyone, and it isn't true for every loan program.
Lending has changed a lot in recent years, and programs get introduced regularly, some well-publicized, some not. Most agents leave financing entirely to whichever lender a buyer happens to find, so options like these can go unnoticed even by buyers who ask around. I make a point of staying current on programs like this so I can flag them for my clients before anyone rules themselves out too early.
Program Spotlight
A program many first-time buyers (and agents) miss
Here's a real example of what's out there. One of the specialty mortgage programs I track closely is built for buyers who don't fit the traditional 20%-down mold — and it's not something every agent thinks to mention.
- Down Payment
- No Down Payment Options Available
- Mortgage Insurance
- Not Required
- Credit Score
- 600 Minimum
Eligible for:
- Single family residences
- Purchase or purchase with renovation of a primary residence
- 1–2 unit properties
- Condos
- Planned unit developments
- Co-op properties in select New York City boroughs (purchase only, not eligible with renovation financing)
Programs like this are generally available in eligible counties across states including Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Coverage varies by county and by lender — reach out and we'll check your specific area.
This kind of program isn't available to everyone, everywhere. The property must be located in a qualifying low-to-moderate income census tract, and the borrower(s) must meet income limits that vary by state and county. A homebuyer education course is required, and a rehab education course may also be required for purchase-with-renovation transactions.
Rates and payments vary and change daily, and depend on your individual qualifications and the lender you work with. Rather than publish a number that's already out of date by the time you read this, reach out and we'll connect you with our lender to get real numbers based on where rates stand today.
Get Connected
Talk to Our Lender
Kayvan works closely with a trusted lender who's closed countless deals on programs like this one. Call or text and we'll make the introduction — no cold calls, no guesswork.
- Phone
- 626.547.5475
Get Ready
How to prepare
Whether a program like this ends up being the right fit or something else does, a little preparation goes a long way. Here's what's worth doing before you start seriously shopping.
- Get pre-qualified early, before you start touring homes, so you know your real price range
- Gather your pay stubs, W-2s, tax returns, bank statements, and a valid ID — your lender will ask for these
- Check your credit report for errors and dispute anything inaccurate before you apply
- Avoid opening new credit accounts or making large purchases in the months before closing
- Save for closing costs and reserves — even no-down-payment programs come with some out-of-pocket costs
- Complete the required homebuyer education course, plus rehab education if you're financing a renovation
- Know your comfortable monthly budget, not just what a lender approves you for — they're not always the same number
The Process
What to expect during escrow
Once your offer is accepted, here's the general order of events between contract and closing.
- Opening escrow — your deposit is placed with a neutral third party
- Inspection period — you have the home professionally inspected and can negotiate repairs
- Appraisal — the lender orders an independent valuation of the property
- Loan underwriting — the lender reviews your file and may request additional conditions
- Shopping for homeowners insurance — you'll need a policy in place before closing
- Title work — a title company confirms the property can be transferred free of liens or disputes
- Reviewing and signing the Closing Disclosure — your final terms, provided before closing
- Funding and recording — the loan funds and the deed records with the county
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After You Close
What happens after close of escrow
Closing isn't the finish line — a few things happen in the days and months after you get the keys.
- Recording day — the deed records and you officially get your keys
- Set up utilities in your name before or right at move-in
- In California, expect a property tax reassessment and a supplemental tax bill reflecting the new purchase price
- Your escrow (impound) account collects a portion of your taxes and insurance with each mortgage payment so the lender can pay them on your behalf
- Your first mortgage payment is typically due the first of the second month after closing
- Start setting aside savings for ongoing maintenance and repairs
- If the property has an HOA, review the governing documents and budget for dues
- Stay in touch with Kayvan for anything that comes up after move-in, from contractor referrals to questions about the neighborhood
Get Started
Think you might qualify? Let's find out together.
The only way to know for sure is to run your numbers. Reach out and we'll figure out what you actually qualify for — no pressure, no guesswork.
Call or text anytime at 626.547.5475.
Get in touch
Talk to Kayvan
Send a short message and I'll get back to you personally — including a warm introduction to our lender if a program like this fits your situation.