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What is the absolute minimum credit score needed to buy my first house?

I have been working hard to pay off my student loans and credit cards to get ready for homeownership. Every website I check gives me a slightly different answer about credit requirements. I want to make sure my score is high enough to get approved before I let a lender run a hard inquiry.

10 Answers

Is it better for a first-time buyer to use an FHA loan or a conventional loan?

I am trying to understand the different mortgage options available for someone buying their first property. I have heard FHA loans are more forgiving but come with permanent mortgage insurance. How do I decide which route makes the most sense for my family's situation?

Asked by Steph Matarazzo | 04-14-2026 | 1,954 Views | Buying | Updated 6 months ago

18 Answers

Are there specific programs for first-time homebuyers that help with the down payment?

My spouse and I are looking to buy our first house in the next six months. We have a stable income but are struggling to save up a full 20 percent for a down payment while paying rent. We heard there might be state or local grants available for first-time buyers. How do we find out if we qualify for any of these assistance programs?

9 Answers

Should we buy a fixer-upper as our first home to get into a better neighborhood?

We are pre-approved for our first mortgage but are getting priced out of the neighborhoods we really want in Portland. We noticed a few older homes that need significant cosmetic work, like new floors and kitchen updates, selling for much less. We are fairly handy and willing to put in sweat equity. Are there specific loan types for this, or is a fixer-upper too risky for a first-time buyer?

Asked by Steph Matarazzo | 04-14-2026 | 285 Views | Buying | Updated 6 months ago

16 Answers

Do buyers prefer a fully remodeled home or an outdated one they can update themselves?

My husband and I are getting ready to downsize and our current home has not been updated since the early 2000s. The layout is great, but the finishes are definitely showing their age. We are debating whether we should spend the next few months doing cosmetic remodels like painting and updating fixtures. Are most buyers looking for a turnkey property, or do they prefer a lower purchase price so they can choose their own finishes?

Asked by Andrew Te | 04-13-2026 | 202 Views | Remodeling | Updated 6 months ago

22 Answers

What is the difference between getting pre-qualified and pre-approved for a mortgage?

We went to an open house last weekend and the listing agent asked if we had our financing sorted out yet. We filled out a quick online form that said we were pre-qualified, but a friend told us we actually need a pre-approval letter to make a serious offer. We want to make sure we are ready when we find the right place. What steps do we need to take to get fully pre-approved?

Asked by Andrew Te | 04-13-2026 | 196 Views | Buying | Updated 6 months ago

11 Answers

How do I say I don't want my sister in law as my realtor?

We're planning on selling our house soon. My sister-in-law just got her real estate license and wants to sell our house. I don't really want to use her cause she's brand new, but I don't want to make dinners awkward. How do I tell her no without starting a family fight?

20 Answers

Is it a scam?

Got a postcard in the mail saying they buy houses for cash 'fast and easy.' My house needs a new roof and the pipes are bad. Is it some kind of scam or will they really buy my house?

21 Answers

No permits. Can I sell my house?

I been fixing up my house for years but never got no permits for the porch or the extra bedroom I added. If I sell it now, is the city gonna come after me or make me tear it down?

16 Answers

Should I renovate before selling?

I’m dealing with a property that has significant historical value but requires extensive structural remediation. Should I list it 'as-is' or will I see a better ROI by handling the foundation issues myself before putting it on the market?

13 Answers