For first-time buyers
Your first home doesn't have to be a mystery
An honest, no-pressure walk through how buying works in St. Louis — what to get ready, what to expect, and where first-timers get tripped up.
General education — not financial or legal advice.
The short answer
To buy your first home you generally need steady income, some savings (down payment, closing costs, and a cushion), and credit in reasonable shape. Get pre-approved first so you know your real budget — then search, offer, inspect, and close. Once under contract, plan on about 30–45 days.
A quick readiness check
- Steady, reliable income
- Savings beyond the down payment
- Credit in reasonable shape
- A plan to stay a few years
The journey
From pre-approval to keys
Pre-approval
A lender confirms what you can borrow.
Set your budget
A monthly cost you're comfortable with.
Search & tour
Homes in your range and must-haves.
Make an offer
Price and terms, with guidance.
Inspection
Understand the home's real condition.
Close
Sign, fund, and get the keys.
See the full step-by-step process →
Want it all in one place, including the real St. Louis closing-cost ranges, the local inspections, and the occupancy permit step? Read the complete first-time home buyer's guide to St. Louis
Common concerns
What first-time buyers worry about
“Can I actually afford this?”
Down payments are often smaller than the 20% myth — but closing costs and a cushion are real. Get the full picture before you fall for a listing.
How financing works →“Am I missing something?”
The common misses: skipping pre-approval, rushing the inspection, and stretching to the very top of your budget. Slowing down is the cure.
Common buyer mistakes →“How do I choose an area?”
Start from your budget, commute, and daily needs — facts, not pressure. Explore St. Louis communities by the numbers.
Explore communities →You don't have to figure this out alone
My job is to make your first purchase clear and calm — explaining each step, flagging risks early, and never pushing you to move before you're ready.
- Plain-language explanations at every step
- Honest guidance on price, condition, and terms
- No pressure — you move on your timeline
Common questions
How much do I need for a down payment on my first home?
Less than most people think. The old “20% down” figure isn't a requirement — several loan programs allow much less, and some buyers qualify for low- or no-down-payment options. The right number depends on your loan type and finances, so ask a lender what you qualify for. (General education, not lending advice.)
What credit score do I need to buy a house?
There's no single magic number — different loan programs have different thresholds, and your score affects your interest rate as much as your approval. You don't need perfect credit. A lender can review your situation and tell you where you stand.
How long does it take to buy a first home?
Plan for two phases: searching (weeks to months) and the stretch once your offer is accepted, which usually runs about 30–45 days through inspection, appraisal, and closing. Getting pre-approved early keeps it moving.
Go deeper
Understand the systems first
The True Cost of Home Ownership
Mortgage, taxes, insurance, and upkeep — what owning really costs beyond the price.
Read the guide →Life NavigationRenting vs. Buying
An honest framework for when buying makes sense and when renting is the smarter move.
Read the guide →Life NavigationThe System Behind Housing Markets
Why prices move — supply, rates, and demand — so headlines don't push you around.
Read the guide →Work out what buying here actually costs you
A six page worksheet with real St. Louis numbers, Missouri and the Illinois Metro East. Down payment, inspections, closing costs, and the local surprises that catch first time buyers. Fill it in once and you will know whether you are three months out or eighteen.