Buying Your First Home Has Never Been Easier
Buying your first home is both a bold, new phase of financial independence and a time of careful contemplation. You’re negotiating the most significant purchase of your life, and you should have all the information and support you need to do it smartly.
Ark Mortgage simplifies the finance process to help you transition from tenant to homeowner. We customize the best loan type, make sure you sign on the correct line at closing, and everything in between. Our Personal Mortgage Advisors are here to help you through the process.
Many of our loans close in 30 days or less – so the home of your dreams is never too far away. When you’re ready to become a homeowner, we’re here to help.
The Better Way to Finance Your First Home
Low Down Payment
We offer a variety of home purchase loan options that require as little as 3% down payment, depending on your financial situation.
Finding the Right Home
A Certified Pre-Approval tells sellers that, based on the information you’ve provided, you’re likely to qualify for financing up to a stated amount. It isn’t a guarantee of final approval or funding. So you can search for the right home without worrying about rising rates.
Increased Buying Power
Armed with a Certified Pre-Approval, your offer carries more weight with sellers and realtors than one from a buyer whose purchasing power has not been verified.
Start Building Wealth
When you own your home, every monthly payment you make adds to the equity in your house — and not to a landlord’s wealth.
Rent vs. Buy: How to decide
Are you renting? Part of your rent helps cover your landlord’s mortgage, property taxes and insurance.
Depending on your situation, owning a home may cost more or less than renting. Plug your numbers (monthly rent payments, fees, taxes, etc.) into our calculator to see. Results are estimates based on the numbers you enter. Keep in mind that insurance and tax amounts fluctuate from year to year, so this is just an estimate.
Mortgage Calculator
FAQs
How do I start the process of buying a home?
Take it step by step:
Get a Certified Pre-Approval: This helps you understand how much you can afford before you start looking for a home. It can also carry more weight with sellers than a basic pre-qualification, because Ark has reviewed your information.
Find a Real Estate Agent: Find a Buyer’s Agent or Realtor who knows the community in which you’re looking to purchase. (The term Realtor means they are real estate agents who subscribe to the code of ethics of the National Association of Realtors). An agent advertising a property or working at an open house is likely a “Listing Agent” and represents the seller. On the other hand, a Buyer’s Agent works just for you, the buyer. You always want someone representing your unique interests in such an important transaction.
Start House Hunting: Once you’ve secured your Certified Pre-Approval and have a Realtor, start shopping with your agent or on the Internet. (A good local Realtor may also know about homes that aren’t even on the market yet.) Decide on your priorities: budget, number of bedrooms, bathrooms, preferred location, size of property and styles of home. Compare neighborhoods, school districts, value for money. Look at as many homes as you need to before making the decision to buy.
How much down payment do I need to buy a home?
There are programs that require as little as 3%-5% down. Your eligibility is based on your overall credit profile, income and assets. Some programs allow part of that amount to be gifted. Speak to a Mortgage Advisor to discuss your situation.
Are loans available for lower income earners?
Yes, there are many programs and products available for low-to-moderate income earners including down payment assistance programs. Ark Mortgage specializes in helping such earners become homeowners.
Can I qualify to buy a home if I have limited credit?
Possibly. There are products and programs designed for borrowers with limited credit, including many first-time buyers. Every situation is different; once your Mortgage Advisor has reviewed your credit profile, they’ll help you determine which options may work for you.