First-Time Home Buyers · Columbus, Dayton & All of Ohio

Buying Your First Home? Let's Make It Simple.

No question is too basic. I will walk you through every step in plain language, help you understand what you can afford, and connect you with trusted lenders, so you feel confident from your first showing to closing day.

How Much Can I Afford?Am I Ready to Buy?
Free first-time buyer consultationPlain-language guidanceTrusted lender connectionsPatient, no-pressure help

Am I Ready to Buy a Home?

Check every statement that is true for you. There are no wrong answers. This simply helps you see where you are today.

Check the statements that apply to you to see your result.

How Much Home Can I Afford?

This estimate uses common lender guidelines: total housing costs around 28% of gross monthly income, and all monthly debts around 36%. Your lender may approve more or less.

Estimated home price range
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Target monthly payment$0
Estimated loan amount$0
Down payment0%
Includes an estimate for mortgage insurance when the down payment is under 20%. Default numbers are examples, not a rate quote or a loan approval. Get Matched With a Lender

For education only. A lender pre-approval is the only way to know exactly what you qualify for.

Your First Home, Step by Step

Here is the whole journey in plain English. I will be with you for every step.

  1. Free First-Time Buyer Consultation

    We talk through your goals, budget, timeline, and questions. I explain the process, the costs, and how working with me works. No pressure.

  2. Check Your Credit & Savings

    Your credit score and savings shape your loan options. If anything needs work, we make a simple plan to get you ready.

  3. Get Pre-Approved

    A lender verifies your income, assets, and credit and tells you how much you can borrow. I can introduce you to lenders who work with first-time buyers.

  4. Explore Loan & Assistance Options

    Your lender reviews programs like conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans, plus any down payment assistance you may qualify for.

  5. Find the Right Home

    We tour homes in your price range. I point out condition issues, resale considerations, and what to look for that first-time buyers often miss.

  6. Make an Offer

    I review comparable sales with you, explain every part of the purchase contract, and negotiate on your behalf.

  7. Inspection & Appraisal

    A home inspector checks the house from top to bottom, and the lender's appraiser confirms its value. I help you understand the results and next steps.

  8. Close & Get Your Keys

    You do a final walkthrough, sign your closing documents, and become a homeowner. Congratulations!

Common Loan Options for First-Time Buyers

You may need much less than 20% down. Your lender will confirm what you qualify for, and program rules can change.

Conventional Loans

Some conventional programs allow as little as 3% down for qualified first-time buyers. Mortgage insurance is usually required below 20% down and can often be removed later.

FHA Loans

Government-backed loans that can allow 3.5% down with more flexible credit guidelines. Popular with first-time buyers.

VA Loans

For eligible veterans, service members, and some surviving spouses. Often no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance.

USDA Loans

For eligible buyers in qualifying rural and suburban areas. Can require no down payment, with income limits.

Down Payment Assistance

Statewide and local programs in Ohio may help qualified buyers with down payment or closing costs. Ask your lender which ones fit you.

Not Sure Where to Start?

That is completely normal. I can connect you with lenders who will explain your options clearly and help you choose the right fit.

Budget for More Than the Down Payment

Upfront costs to plan for

  • Earnest money: a good-faith deposit when your offer is accepted, applied toward your purchase at closing
  • Home inspection: paid before closing to check the home's condition
  • Appraisal: usually required by your lender
  • Closing costs: lender, title, and prepaid taxes and insurance, often a few percent of the loan

After you move in

  • Moving costs and utility setup
  • Basic tools, furniture, and window coverings
  • An emergency fund for repairs
  • Routine maintenance, often budgeted at a small percentage of the home's value each year

Home Buying Terms, Explained Simply

Pre-ApprovalA lender's written estimate of how much you can borrow after reviewing your finances.
Earnest MoneyA deposit that shows the seller you are serious. It is applied toward your purchase at closing.
ContingencyA condition in your contract, such as financing or inspection, that protects you if something goes wrong.
AppraisalAn independent opinion of the home's value, ordered by your lender.
EscrowAn account your lender may use to pay property taxes and homeowners insurance for you.
PMIPrivate mortgage insurance, often required on conventional loans with less than 20% down.
Closing DisclosureA document you receive before closing that lists your final loan terms and costs.
Title InsuranceProtection against problems with the property's ownership history.
Caleb Stagner, Ohio real estate agent

Patient Guidance for Big First Steps

As a former paramedic, I spent years explaining stressful situations in a calm, simple way. Buying your first home should feel exciting, not overwhelming. I will answer every question, as many times as you need, and make sure you never feel rushed.

More about me

First-Time Buyer FAQs

What credit score do I need to buy a home?

It depends on the loan program and lender. FHA loans can allow lower scores than many conventional loans. A lender can review your credit and tell you where you stand, often with tips to improve it.

Can I buy a home if I have student loans?

Yes, many buyers do. Lenders look at your total monthly debts compared to your income. Your student loan payment is part of that calculation.

How much money do I need saved?

Plan for your down payment, closing costs, inspection, and a cushion for moving and repairs. With low down payment programs and possible assistance, it may be less than you think.

Does it cost anything to work with you?

Our first consultation is free. Before we tour homes, we sign a written buyer agreement that explains my services and compensation. Compensation is negotiable, and sellers often agree to cover some or all of it. I will explain everything upfront.

Should I rent or buy?

It depends on your finances, how long you plan to stay, and your goals. Buying builds equity over time, while renting offers flexibility. I am happy to talk through the pros and cons for your situation with no pressure.

How long does the process take?

Getting pre-approved can be quick. Finding the right home varies. Once your offer is accepted, a financed purchase often closes in about 30 to 45 days.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Book a free first-time buyer consultation. We will talk through your budget, your options, and a simple plan to get you into your first home.

Book a Free ConsultationCall 937-729-8632

Caleb Stagner is a licensed real estate salesperson in the State of Ohio affiliated with ADT Realty Brokers and is not a mortgage lender. Loan program details are general information and may change. Calculator results are estimates for educational purposes only.

Let’s Plan Your First Home

Tell me a little about where you are in the process, and I will reach out to set up your free first-time buyer consultation. Prefer to talk? Call 937-729-8632.

What happens next:

  1. I learn about your goals, budget, and questions.

  2. I connect you with trusted local lenders.

  3. You get a simple, step-by-step plan to buy.