Tips for Gen Z Homebuyers: Start Smart, Buy Confidently

If you’re part of Gen Z—born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s—you might be thinking about taking your first big step into homeownership. And guess what? You’re not alone. More and more Gen Zers are ditching the rent cycle and diving into real estate earlier than previous generations. But in today’s market, buying your first home can feel a little overwhelming.

At First Union Home Finance, we’re here to simplify the process. Whether you’re just starting to think about buying or already scrolling through listings, here are some practical tips to help you purchase your first home with confidence.

Start Saving Early (Even If It’s Just a Little)

You don’t need to have a huge savings account to begin preparing for homeownership. Start small—set up a separate savings account just for your future home. Even if you’re saving $50–$100 a month, it builds over time and helps form healthy financial habits. You’ll need money for a down payment, closing costs, and possibly moving or renovation expenses.

Pro Tip: Many first-time homebuyer programs offer low down payment options—sometimes as low as 3%. Ask us about your eligibility!

Understand Your Credit Score

Your credit score plays a major role in the kind of mortgage you can get. Lenders look at it to assess how likely you are to repay your loan. Generally, the higher your score, the better your interest rate and loan options.

If your credit score isn’t quite where you want it to be, don’t worry. There are steps you can take to boost it—like paying off debt, keeping credit card balances low, and avoiding late payments.

Get Pre-Approved Before You Shop

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage gives you a clear picture of what you can afford—and shows sellers you’re a serious buyer. It’s like having a green light to start house-hunting.

At First Union Home Finance, we make pre-approval easy. With just a few key details, we can help you determine your budget and streamline your home search.

Factor in More Than Just the Mortgage

When budgeting, remember your monthly mortgage payment is just part of the cost of owning a home. Don’t forget to account for:

Property taxes
Homeowner’s insurance
Utilities
HOA fees (if applicable)
Maintenance and repairs

Knowing the full picture will help you avoid surprises down the road.

Take Advantage of First-Time Buyer Programs

There are tons of resources out there for first-time buyers—including government-backed loans like FHA, VA, and USDA loans, as well as state and local grant programs that may offer down payment assistance.

We’ll help you explore all the programs you may qualify for so you can take full advantage of what’s available.

Think Long-Term

It’s easy to fall in love with a trendy kitchen or a cute neighborhood—but remember, buying a home is a long-term investment. Think about your lifestyle, career goals, and whether you might need extra space in the future.

Ask yourself:

Is this a place I can see myself in for at least 5 years?
Is it close to work, school, or transportation?
Does it have potential to grow in value?

A little foresight now can pay off big later.

Work With a Lender Who Gets You

Buying your first home isn’t just a financial decision—it’s a personal one. You want a mortgage partner who listens, explains things clearly, and puts your goals first.

At First Union Home Finance, we’re all about helping first-time buyers feel informed and empowered. We’ll walk you through every step, answer your questions, and help you find the financing that fits your lifestyle.