How much do I need for a down payment on my first home?

It varies by loan type — some programs allow as little as 3–5% down, and there are first-time-buyer and down-payment-assistance options in Washington. A lender can tell you exactly what you'd need for your price range and loan, including closing costs. Don't assume you need 20%.

Is it harder to buy your first home on the Eastside?

Prices are high and competition is real, but first-time buyers succeed here every month — especially those who get pre-approved early, use instant alerts to act fast, and work with a broker who structures competitive offers. More attainable entry points exist in condos and townhomes near transit, like Downtown Redmond.

Buyer educationApril 8, 2026 · 8 min read

The First-Time Buyer's Roadmap to a Competitive Seattle-Area Offer

Buying your first home on the Eastside? A plain-English roadmap from saving and pre-approval to touring, offering, and closing.

By Shivali Sharma, Real Estate Broker · Dulay Homes LLC

Buying your first home in a fast, high-value market like the Eastside can feel overwhelming. It doesn't have to be. Here's the roadmap I walk first-time buyers through — the same steps, in the same order, every time.

Step 1: Know your numbers

Before anything else, understand what you can comfortably afford — not just the price, but the monthly payment including taxes, insurance, and any HOA dues. Talk to a lender early; they'll tell you your real budget and what you'll need for a down payment and closing costs. First-time buyers have more loan and down-payment-assistance options than most expect.

Step 2: Get pre-approved

A full pre-approval turns 'I think I can afford this' into a credible offer a seller will take seriously. In a competitive market, it's non-negotiable. Aim for an underwritten approval if your lender offers it.

Step 3: Define your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves

Separate the non-negotiables (commute, number of bedrooms, budget) from the flexible (a specific finish, a particular street). This keeps you decisive when the right home appears — and in this market, decisiveness wins.

Step 4: Set up instant alerts and start touring

Save a search so new matches text you the day they list. Tour enough homes to calibrate your eye, but be ready to act when the right one shows up. The first weekend often decides the best listings.

Step 5: Write a smart offer

Your offer is more than a price. Earnest money, contingencies, closing timeline, and how the offer is presented all matter. As your broker, I structure it to be both competitive and protective — and I lean on relationships with listing agents to give you an edge.

Step 6: From mutual acceptance to keys

Once your offer is accepted, we manage inspection, appraisal, financing, and title through escrow — usually about 30 days. I keep the deadlines and paperwork on track so you can focus on planning your move.

First-time buyer programs change and have eligibility rules. Talk to a lender about current down-payment-assistance and first-time-buyer loan options for your situation.

Frequently asked questions

How much do I need for a down payment on my first home?: It varies by loan type — some programs allow as little as 3–5% down, and there are first-time-buyer and down-payment-assistance options in Washington. A lender can tell you exactly what you'd need for your price range and loan, including closing costs. Don't assume you need 20%.
Is it harder to buy your first home on the Eastside?: Prices are high and competition is real, but first-time buyers succeed here every month — especially those who get pre-approved early, use instant alerts to act fast, and work with a broker who structures competitive offers. More attainable entry points exist in condos and townhomes near transit, like Downtown Redmond.