First-Time Home Buyers in Houston

Low down payment loans, Texas grants & a step-by-step plan

Buy Your First Home in Deer Park & Houston

Buying your first home in the Houston area is closer than you think. Between low down payment loans, Texas grant programs and tax credits, many first-time buyers in Deer Park, Pasadena, La Porte, Baytown, League City and Houston can get into a home with much less cash than they expected. I am Clifton Saunders, The Mortgage Mentor, and my team has helped thousands of families become homeowners.

Your First-Time Buyer Game Plan

Get pre-approved first. Know your budget before you fall in love with a house.
Stack your help. We check down payment assistance, Mortgage Credit Certificates and seller-paid closing costs.
Pick the right loan. FHA (3.5% down), VA (zero down for eligible veterans), USDA (zero down in eligible areas) or conventional (as little as 3% down for qualified first-time buyers).
Shop with a great Realtor. Need one? We will connect you with a trusted local agent.
Close and file your homestead exemption. In Texas you can file right after closing to lower your property taxes.

Not Ready Yet? We Will Help.

Not Ready Yet? We Will Get You Ready.

A lower credit score isn’t a “no.” It’s a “not yet.” We’ve partnered with UQUAL, the loan readiness company, to help you enhance and rebuild your credit with a free consultation and a game plan built just for you.

Enroll through our link. Get a free consultation and a custom game plan.
Work your plan with a coach. Learn what to pay, what to leave alone, and how each move affects your loan.
Get pre-approved with us. When you’re ready, we’ll help you buy your home.

Bonus: $500 lender credit when you enroll with UQUAL through our link and close your loan with our team.

Start Rebuilding My Credit →

Lender credit subject to loan approval and closing with the Clifton Saunders Mortgage Team at New American Funding. UQUAL is a separate company. Results vary; no specific score change is guaranteed.

Free First-Time Buyer Classes

We host free first-time homebuyer webinars throughout the year. Check our Events page or follow us on YouTube for Mortgage Cliff Notes videos that explain the process in plain English.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do I need to buy my first home in Houston?

It depends on the loan and programs you qualify for. FHA requires 3.5% down, some conventional loans 3%, and VA and USDA can be zero down. Down payment assistance can cover much of the rest, plus you will need funds for some closing costs unless the seller or a grant covers them.

What credit score do I need as a first-time buyer?

Many first-time buyer programs start around 580 to 620 depending on the loan type and program. Call me and I will tell you exactly where you stand and what to do next.

Am I a first-time buyer if I owned a home years ago?

For most programs, you count as a first-time buyer if you have not owned a home in the last three years.

Clifton Saunders, NMLS #230688 | New American Funding, NMLS #6606 | Equal Housing Opportunity. Subject to credit approval; not all applicants will qualify. Loan programs, grant funds, income limits and guidelines can change at any time and vary by county. This is not a commitment to lend. Call or text 281-978-2106 to confirm current details.