What You Need: Before Buying A House

: Most financial advisors recommend keeping 3 to 6 months of living expenses in an emergency fund specifically for unexpected repairs or job loss after moving in. 2. Credit and Debt Management

: While 20% is the gold standard to avoid Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) , many loan programs allow for much less. Conventional loans : As low as 3% for first-time buyers. FHA loans : Require as little as 3.5% down. what you need before buying a house

: Lenders look at your Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio. Ideally, your total monthly debt payments (including the new mortgage) should not exceed 36% of your gross monthly income. 3. Essential Documentation Buying a House in Houston: 8 Tips for First-Time Homebuyers : Most financial advisors recommend keeping 3 to