06/11/2025
🏡 Thinking About Buying Your First Home? READ THIS!
Hey friends! So you’re thinking about buying your first home? That’s exciting — and yeah, a little overwhelming too. But don’t worry, I’m going to walk you through what you really need to know to get started and actually succeed in buying your first home — especially right here in Vermont.
🔢 First things first — your credit score.
This little number plays a big role in getting a home loan.
👉 Not quite where you want it to be? That’s OK!
✔️ Check your report for free at AnnualCreditReport.com
✔️ Dispute any errors
✔️ Pay down high-interest debt
✔️ Avoid opening new credit accounts
Small steps really do help!
💰 Next: Get pre-approved for a mortgage.
This is where a lender checks your income, credit, and debt and gives you a clear idea of what you can afford. Pre-approval also shows sellers you’re a serious buyer when it’s time to make an offer!
💵 Let’s talk money.
You’ll usually need 3–5% down, plus some closing costs.
BUT — good news! Vermont has programs that can help with that. 👇
✨ Vermont Agencies That Help First-Time Buyers:
🏡 Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA) – Low-interest loans + down payment grants
💚 Champlain Housing Trust – Homebuyer education + shared equity + savings help
🌲 USDA Rural Development Loans – No down payment required in many rural areas (hello, Vermont!)
📘 Pro tip: Take a first-time homebuyer class. Some programs require it, but even if they don’t — it’s super helpful. You'll learn budgeting, inspections, what to expect at closing, and more.
Bottom line? Buying your first home can be a big leap — but you don’t have to do it alone.
Vermont has tons of resources to help you do it the right way.
✅ Work on your credit
✅ Get pre-approved
✅ Connect with local programs
✅ Start dreaming — you’ve got this!
🙋♀️ Got questions? Want help getting connected with local resources? Drop a comment or send me a message. I’d love to help however I can.
💬 And please, share this post with anyone you know who's thinking about buying their first place. Let’s help more Vermonters find their way home. 🏠💚