How to Apply for a Home Loan as a First-Time Buyer (2026 Complete Guide) By HomeFinanceGuide Staff | Updated: May 2026 | Reading time: ~15 minutes 📋 What's Inside This Guide Quick Answer Step-by-Step Home Loan Process How Much Loan on a $40,000 Salary? How to Get Pre-Approved How to Apply Online How to Apply With Bad Credit How to Apply for a USDA Loan How to Apply for an FHA Loan FHA vs USDA Comparison How to Get Approved Faster Why Applications Get Denied Best Lenders for First-Time Buyers Mortgage Affordability Calculator FHA vs USDA Pros & Cons Common Buyer Mistakes Frequently Asked Questions Final Verdict Home prices in 2026 are still punishing first-time buyers. The median US home price sits above $400,000 in most metro areas — and even in rural markets that used to feel affordable, things have shifted. For someone buying their first home, the maz...