Buying a Home

Everything you need to know about financing a home purchase — loan programs, down payments, and how the process works.

Loan Programs

We offer a wide range of loan programs to fit different financial situations and goals, including:

  • VA — Available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and their families, often with no down payment required. See our VA Loans page for full eligibility details.
  • Conventional — A traditional loan not backed by a government agency. Often the best fit for buyers with strong credit and a down payment of at least 3–5%.
  • FHA — Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, popular with first-time buyers thanks to lower down payment and credit requirements.
  • USDA — Designed for eligible rural and suburban properties, offering no-down-payment financing for qualifying buyers.
  • Jumbo — For loan amounts above conventional limits, typically used to finance higher-priced homes.
  • First-Time Buyer Programs — Special options built to help first-time buyers overcome down payment and credit hurdles.

Rate Options

Choosing the right rate structure can make a big difference in your monthly payment and long-term costs:

  • Fixed Rate — Your interest rate and principal & interest payment stay the same for the life of the loan, offering predictability.
  • Adjustable Rate (ARM) — Starts with a lower introductory rate for a set period, then adjusts periodically based on market conditions.
  • Interest-Only — Payments cover only interest for an initial period, which can lower payments short-term but doesn't build equity during that time.
  • Graduated Payment — Payments start lower and increase gradually over time, which can help buyers who expect their income to grow.

Property Types

We finance a variety of property types, including:

  • Single Family Homes — The most common property type, and typically the most straightforward to finance.
  • Multi-Family Properties — Duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes, which can also generate rental income.
  • Condominiums — Individually owned units within a larger building or community, often with different approval requirements.
  • Townhouses — Multi-level homes that share walls with neighboring units, often part of a homeowners' association.
  • Manufactured Homes — Factory-built homes that meet specific financing requirements, offering an affordable path to homeownership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions from buyers just getting started.

We offer Conventional, VA, FHA, USDA, and Jumbo loans, plus programs designed specifically for first-time buyers. Your loan officer will help match you to the program that fits your down payment, credit profile, and property type.
It depends on the program: Conventional loans can start as low as 3% down, FHA loans typically require 3.5%, and VA and USDA loans can offer 0% down for eligible borrowers. Jumbo loans generally require a larger down payment.
Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on information you provide. Pre-approval involves your loan officer verifying income, assets, and credit, resulting in a conditional commitment that carries more weight with sellers and real estate agents.
Typically pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns, bank statements, and identification. Self-employed borrowers and those with additional income sources may need to provide extra documentation. Your loan officer will give you a personalized checklist.
Single family homes, multi-family properties, condominiums, townhouses, and manufactured homes can all be financed, though eligibility and requirements vary by loan program.
A fixed rate keeps your principal and interest payment the same for the life of the loan. An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) typically starts with a lower rate for an initial period, then adjusts periodically. Interest-only and graduated payment options are also available for certain situations. Your loan officer can help you weigh the trade-offs.
Most purchase loans close in about 30–45 days from a fully executed contract, though timelines can vary based on the program and how quickly documentation is provided.

Ready to get started?

Talk to an NCS loan officer about your purchase loan options.

Find a Loan Officer