Your Guide to a Smart, Successful Home Purchase
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone—but it can also feel overwhelming. From understanding mortgage options to navigating Washington’s competitive market, first-time buyers often have a lot of questions.
At Heather Stewart Realty, we specialize in guiding first-time buyers through every step of the process—helping you secure the right home at the best price. Here’s what you need to know to get started on your journey to homeownership in Southwest Washington.
🏡 Step 1: Get Your Finances in Order
✔ What Credit Score Do You Need to Buy a Home?
A higher credit score can qualify you for better mortgage rates, but buyers with lower scores still have options.
✅ Excellent (740+) → Qualifies for the best interest rates
✅ Good (670-739) → Competitive mortgage rates available
✅ Fair (580-669) → Eligible for FHA loans with low down payments
✅ Below 580? Work on credit repair & savings strategies before applying
💡 Pro Tip: Check your credit report for errors before applying for a mortgage—even small fixes can improve your score!
💰 Step 2: Understand Mortgage & Down Payment Assistance Programs
You don’t need 20% down to buy a home! Washington State offers several loan programs to help first-time buyers:
✅ FHA Loans – As low as 3.5% down, great for buyers with lower credit scores
✅ Conventional Loans – As low as 3% down with good credit
✅ VA Loans – 0% down for eligible military veterans
✅ USDA Loans – 0% down for homes in rural areas
✅ Washington State Down Payment Assistance (DPA) – State and local programs offer grants & low-interest second loans to cover part of your down payment
👉 Schedule a Free Home Buying Consultation
🔍 Step 3: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Before you start shopping, get pre-approved by a lender. This helps you:
✔ Know your budget before searching for homes
✔ Strengthen your offer—sellers take pre-approved buyers more seriously
✔ Lock in a competitive mortgage rate for a set time
💡 Market Tip: In competitive areas of Washington, pre-approved buyers have an edge over those who are only pre-qualified.
🏡 Step 4: Find the Right Home & Neighborhood
Washington offers a wide variety of communities—from urban neighborhoods to scenic rural areas. Here’s what to consider:
✔ Proximity to work, schools, and amenities
✔ Local home values & future growth potential
✔ Commute times & public transportation options
✔ Property taxes & homeowner association (HOA) fees
📍 Explore Washington’s Best First-Time Buyer Areas:
👉 Browse Affordable Homes in Lewis County
👉 Find Homes Near Olympia & Thurston County
👉 Search Properties in Mason County
📈 Step 5: Be Ready for a Competitive Market
In many areas of Southwest Washington, the housing market is highly competitive. Here’s how to improve your chances of getting your dream home:
✔ Act fast – Homes can go under contract within days, so be ready to make offers quickly
✔ Work with a local expert – Heather Stewart knows the hidden gems & off-market listings
✔ Make a strong, competitive offer – Include a personalized letter to the seller if needed
✔ Stay flexible – Be open to negotiating terms beyond price, like closing dates or contingencies
👉 Get Early Access to New Listings
🏡 Step 6: Close the Deal & Get Your Keys
Once your offer is accepted, the final steps include:
✔ Home Inspection – Ensures there are no major issues with the property
✔ Appraisal – Confirms the home’s value for the lender
✔ Final Walkthrough – Check that the home is in the expected condition
✔ Closing Day – Sign the paperwork, finalize the loan, and get your keys! 🎉
💡 Pro Tip: Budget for closing costs (typically 2-5% of the home price) to avoid surprises at closing.
📍 Ready to Buy Your First Home? Let’s Get Started!
Buying your first home doesn’t have to be stressful—Heather Stewart Realty will guide you through every step of the process with expert advice and personalized strategies.
📍 Get early access to listings, expert negotiation, and stress-free home buying.
