Not sure if you are ready? Take our homebuyer readiness quiz or try the mortgage calculator.
Loan Options for First-Time Buyers
- Conventional programs with low down payment options for qualified first-time buyers.
- FHA loans with flexible credit guidelines.
- VA loans for eligible veterans and service members.
- Down payment assistance: state and local programs may be available depending on income, location and eligibility. We will help you see what you may qualify for.
Steps to Buying Your First Home
- Check your budget. Look at your monthly comfort level, not just the maximum you can qualify for.
- Review your credit. We can identify quick improvements before you apply.
- Get pre-approved. A real pre-approval makes your offer stronger.
- Shop with an agent. We are happy to introduce you to experienced local agents.
- Make an offer and lock your rate.
- Inspection, appraisal and underwriting. We handle the lender side and keep you updated.
- Close and get your keys.
Costs Beyond the Down Payment
Plan for closing costs, prepaid property taxes and insurance, moving costs, and a reserve for repairs. Seller credits and lender credits may help reduce your cash to close. We will give you a realistic estimate early so nothing catches you off guard.
How Working With Do Good Mortgage Works
Do Good Mortgage is a mortgage broker based in NE Portland. Instead of offering a single bank's products, a broker can compare loan options from multiple wholesale lenders and help you choose the one that fits. You work with one point of contact from your first question through closing.
- Strategy call. We talk through your goals, timeline, income, and savings. No pressure, and no application required to ask questions.
- Review and pre-approval. With your permission we review credit, income and assets, then explain your options in plain language, including estimated payment and cash to close.
- Compare options. We shop lenders and loan programs and show you the trade-offs between rate, points, and lender credits.
- Underwriting to closing. We gather documents, coordinate with your agent, escrow and the lender, and keep you updated so there are no surprises.
After your loan closes, Do Good Mortgage makes a donation to a local nonprofit, part of our belief in mixing good business with good deeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I save before buying?
It depends on the loan program, home price and closing costs. We will estimate your total cash needed so you have a clear target.
Does checking my credit hurt my score?
A mortgage credit check is a hard inquiry, but credit scoring models generally treat multiple mortgage inquiries within a short window as one. We will explain before pulling credit.
Can I get help with my down payment?
Possibly. Gifts from family and certain assistance programs may be used. Eligibility varies, and we will help you explore options.
Who counts as a first-time buyer?
Definitions vary by program; many consider you a first-time buyer if you have not owned a home in the past three years.
Talk With Clint About Your Loan
Every situation is different, and the right loan depends on your income, credit, savings and goals. Call or text 503-505-9913, or book a free strategy call. Ready to start? Begin your application online.
Do Good Mortgage
5980 NE 37th Ave, Portland, OR 97211
Meetings by appointment · 503-505-9913
Clint Elliott, NMLS #239388 · Licensed in OR and WA