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HomeIQ Academy Blog
Financial intelligence for first-time homebuyers. In-depth guides on affordability, credit, mortgages, and the home buying process.
What Credit Score Do You Need to Buy a House?
Learn the minimum scores for FHA, conventional, and VA loans, plus how to improve yours before applying.
First-Time Homebuyer Checklist: 15 Steps from Pre-Approval to Closing
The complete step-by-step checklist covering everything from checking your credit to getting the keys.
How Much House Can I Afford? A First-Time Buyer's Complete Guide
Learn exactly how much house you can afford using the 28/36 rule, DTI ratios, and the formulas lenders use.
What Are Closing Costs? A Complete Guide for Home Buyers
Everything you need to know about closing costs — what they include, how much to expect, and how to reduce them.
Should I Rent or Buy a House? How to Decide in 2026
A clear-eyed comparison of renting vs buying including breakeven timelines, hidden costs, and when each makes sense.
What Is a Good Debt-to-Income Ratio for a Mortgage?
How to calculate your DTI, what lenders want to see by loan type, and practical ways to lower it before applying.
How Much Do You Need for a Down Payment on a House?
The 20% myth debunked. Real minimums by loan type, PMI explained, down payment assistance programs, and saving strategies.
How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage: Step-by-Step Guide
What pre-approval is, documents you need, how to shop lenders, and what can kill your approval after you get it.
Lesson Library
How Much House Can I Afford? A First-Time Buyer's Complete Guide (2026)
Learn exactly how much house you can afford using the 28/36 rule, DTI ratios, and the same formulas lenders use — explained in plain English with 2026 rates and data.
First-Time Home Buyer Checklist 2026: 15 Steps From Renting to Closing
The complete first-time home buyer checklist for 2026 — 15 actionable steps from checking your credit to getting your keys, updated with current rates and programs.
What Credit Score Do You Need to Buy a House in 2026?
Minimum credit scores by loan type, how your score affects your interest rate and monthly payment, and exactly how to improve your score before applying for a mortgage in 2026.
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