
Temporary buydowns: how a 2-1 or 1-0 buydown works, and who pays
A temporary buydown lowers your payment for the first year or two. Someone pays for it up front, and it is often the seller.
OCT 2026See your rate, get pre-approved, and track your loan to closing, all online.
No credit check. No phone number.

Six stages, from your first budget to the keys. Here is what happens in each one, and what to do before you move on.
Start from a monthly payment you are comfortable with, including taxes, insurance, and any HOA dues. That payment sets your price range.
How much can I afford?Your down payment, credit, and military service point you to a loan. Conventional, FHA, VA, and first-time buyer programs each set their own minimums.
Compare down paymentsA lender reviews your income, assets, and credit, then confirms how much you can borrow. Sellers expect that letter with your offer.
How to get pre-approvedTour homes in your range with your agent. Check the payment on any home you like before you offer on it.
Monthly payment calculatorOnce you are under contract, you lock your rate, the lender orders the appraisal, and underwriting clears the last conditions.
You get your Closing Disclosure at least three business days before closing. Compare it to your estimate, sign, and get the keys.
Every purchase program side by side, with points and credits shown. No credit check.
Pick the down payment, term, and points that fit your budget, and see how each choice moves the payment.
Upload income and assets once. An underwriter verifies them and you get a letter your agent can send.
Lock, appraisal, and underwriting in one dashboard, with every open task and date in view.
The minimum down payment for each purchase loan.
Estimate a payment, see what you can afford, and check whether a refinance pays off. No sign-in, no credit check.
Know your budgetbefore you tour homes.