First-Time Buyer
I am currently renting, living with family, newly married or ready to buy my first home.
Start My Buyer PlanDFW First-Time Buyer Cheat Sheet
Your First Home May Be Closer Than You Think.
Download Aaron Kirby’s free DFW First-Time Buyer Cheat Sheet and get a simple breakdown of popular loan programs, possible down-payment options, the buying process and the questions you should ask before beginning your home search.
You do not have to figure it out alone. Aaron will help you understand the process, build a plan and connect you with the right professionals.
No pressure. No confusing real estate language. Just a clear plan for your next move.
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Which Best Describes You?
Move-Up Family
I already own a home, but we need more bedrooms, more space, a better location or a home that fits our next chapter.
Create My Move-Up PlanLocal Homeowner
I own a home in DFW and want to understand its value, local market activity or whether now is a good time to sell.
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Popular Homebuying Programs to Ask About
These are general program summaries—not loan approvals or personalized recommendations. Loan programs, rates, assistance amounts and qualifications can change. A licensed mortgage professional must review your income, credit, debt, assets, property and complete financial profile.
Flexible First Step
FHA Loan
FHA financing is commonly considered by first-time buyers because it may offer a lower down-payment requirement and more flexible qualifying guidelines than some conventional options.
- Down payment may be as low as 3.5%
- Primary residence required
- Mortgage insurance normally applies
- Approval depends on credit, income, debts and lender guidelines
Low Down Payment
Conventional 3% Options
Certain conventional programs may allow qualified buyers to purchase with as little as 3% down. Program examples include Fannie Mae HomeReady, Freddie Mac Home Possible and Freddie Mac HomeOne.
- Some options have income limits
- Some are intended for first-time buyers
- Private mortgage insurance may apply
- Homebuyer education may be required
- Credit and underwriting requirements apply
For Eligible Military Buyers
VA Home Loan
Eligible veterans, active-duty service members and certain surviving spouses may have access to VA-backed home financing.
- VA may not require a down payment
- No monthly private mortgage insurance
- VA eligibility is required
- Lenders may have additional requirements
- The property must meet applicable standards
Eligible Areas
USDA Home Loan
USDA financing may provide a no-down-payment option for qualified buyers purchasing an eligible home in an approved rural or suburban area.
- Property-location requirements apply
- Household-income limits apply
- Must generally be a primary residence
- Credit, repayment ability and lender requirements apply
Texas Homebuyer Assistance
TDHCA — My First Texas Home
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs offers programs that may combine a mortgage with down-payment or closing-cost assistance.
- First-time-buyer rules may apply
- Certain exceptions may be available
- Income and purchase-price limits apply
- Homebuyer education may be required
- Must use an approved participating lender
Down-Payment Assistance
TSAHC Programs
TSAHC offers Texas homebuyer programs that may provide down-payment assistance for eligible buyers. Program examples include Home Sweet Texas Home and Homes for Texas Heroes. Some options are designed for eligible teachers, first responders, veterans, healthcare professionals and other public-service occupations.
- Income limits may apply
- Occupation requirements apply to Heroes programs
- Credit and lender requirements apply
- Assistance availability and terms can change
- Buyers must use participating professionals
Not sure which program fits you?
That is exactly why you should start with a plan. Talk to Aaron, and he will help you identify the right questions and connect you with a licensed loan professional.
Myth vs Fact
Do Not Let These Myths Keep You Renting
Myth
“I need 20% down.”
Fact
Some qualified buyers may have options requiring considerably less than 20% down.
Myth
“My credit has to be perfect.”
Fact
Different programs and lenders have different credit requirements. A review is better than assuming you cannot qualify.
Myth
“I should find a house before speaking with anyone.”
Fact
A buying plan should come first so you understand your estimated budget, cash needs and next steps.
Myth
“I cannot buy because I have student loans.”
Fact
Student loans do not automatically prevent homeownership. Their effect depends on the loan program, payment calculation and complete financial profile.
Myth
“I should wait until rates are perfect.”
Fact
There is no single perfect market. The right decision depends on your payment, stability, goals, timeline and available options.
These statements are educational and do not guarantee financing or approval.
The Process
You Need More Than a House List. You Need a Plan.
- Step 1
Discover
We talk about why you want to move, your preferred areas, your timeline and what is most important to you.
- Step 2
Prepare
Aaron helps you organize your questions and connects you with a licensed mortgage professional for financing guidance.
- Step 3
Search
You receive a focused home search based on your needs, location, budget and lifestyle.
- Step 4
Negotiate
Aaron helps you evaluate the property, prepare a competitive offer and understand the contract process.
- Step 5
Close
Aaron stays involved through inspections, appraisal, negotiations, final walkthrough and closing.
DFW Local
Helping Buyers and Homeowners Across DFW
Grand Prairie
- Current listings
- Neighborhood guides & schools
- Market updates & lifestyle
Move-Up Buyers
Has Your Current Home Stopped Fitting Your Family?
If you bought your home three to seven years ago, your equity, space requirements or priorities may have changed. Aaron can help you understand your current home’s potential value and create a coordinated plan for selling and purchasing your next home.
Estimate current equity
Determine your next-home needs
Coordinate selling and buying
Build a realistic moving timeline
Local Homeowners
Know What Is Happening in Your Neighborhood
Real estate is local. Receive relevant updates for Mansfield, Arlington, Grand Prairie, Burleson, Midlothian or Fort Worth instead of relying on generic national headlines.
Recent neighborhood salesEstimated home-value rangeNew listingsBuyer demandLocal development newsMonthly market updatesSelling preparation checklist
Contact Aaron
817.449.0722 akirby@richardkirbygroup.com2909 E Arkansas Ln Suite C, Arlington, TX 76010
About Aaron
Meet Aaron Kirby
Aaron Kirby is a DFW real estate professional with KG Real Estate Collective. He helps first-time buyers, growing families and local homeowners make confident real estate decisions through education, preparation and a clear plan.
[Editable bio: add Aaron’s connection to DFW, why he entered real estate, and his approach to serving clients.]
“My goal is not to pressure you into making a move. My goal is to help you understand your options and build a plan that makes sense for your life.”
Free Download
Get Your Free First-Time Buyer Cheat Sheet
Complete the short form and Aaron will send you the guide and help you identify your best next step.
FAQ
Answers to Common Questions
Not necessarily. Some qualified buyers may have options requiring considerably less. A licensed lender can review your situation.
Stop Guessing. Start With a Plan.
Whether you are six weeks or two years away from buying, the right information can help you prepare with confidence.