Buyer Guide
Included is our buyer guide, designed for a simple overview of the home buying journey. From planning and pre approval to showings, offers, inspections, all the way to closing day.
Open the Buyer Guide
Explore our Buyer Guide to get a clear, step by step understanding of the home buying journey and what you can expect at every stage. From your first search to closing day, this guide walks you through timelines, key decisions, financing options, inspections, and everything in between so you feel confident, prepared, and fully supported the entire way.
Common Loan Types
Every buyer’s situation is different. These common financing options can help you understand what may be available before connecting with a trusted lender.
Conventional Loan
Best for: Buyers with stronger credit, stable income, and a desire for flexible property options.
- Often used for primary homes, second homes, and investment properties
- Down payment can vary based on borrower profile and property type
- Mortgage insurance may apply when putting less money down
- Lenders review credit, income, assets, employment history, and debt to income ratio
FHA Loan
Best for: Buyers who want a lower entry point and more flexible qualifying standards.
- Popular with first time buyers and buyers rebuilding credit
- Requires owner occupancy
- Mortgage insurance is part of the program structure
- Lenders still verify income, employment, assets, and overall repayment ability
VA Loan
Best for: Eligible veterans, service members, and some surviving spouses.
- Primary residence program for eligible borrowers
- Often known for low out of pocket entry and no monthly mortgage insurance
- Certificate of Eligibility is part of the process
- Individual lenders may apply their own credit and underwriting standards
USDA Loan
Best for: Buyers purchasing in eligible rural or suburban areas who meet household income limits.
- Property must be in an eligible area
- Household income limits apply
- Primary residence only
- Lenders review income stability, repayment ability, and property eligibility
Jumbo Loan
Best for: Higher priced homes that exceed conforming loan limits.
- Typically requires stronger reserves and a stronger overall financial profile
- Down payment expectations can be higher
- Lenders often look closely at income consistency, assets, and debt ratios
- Helpful for luxury or higher value purchase ranges
Michigan First Time Buyer Assistance
Best for: Buyers exploring down payment help, closing cost help, or state supported buyer programs.
- Program availability can depend on income, purchase price, location, and buyer status
- Some programs pair with specific loan products
- Education requirements may apply
- Check current program availability with your lender before making decisions
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Listing information is provided by Participants of the MichRIC MLS. IDX information is provided exclusively for personal, non-commercial use, and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. ©: MichRIC MLS. Last Update September 24, 2026 10:03 PM UTC
Greater Lansing Association of Realtors® (GLAR) All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) or information provider(s) shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless. Listing(s) information is provided for consumer's personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers