Saving for Your Home
Figure out how much cash you actually need, from down payment to closing costs and moving day.
10 lessons · about 70 minutes
Lessons in this module
- 1How Much Money Do You Need to Buy a House?An overview of the major upfront and reserve funds buyers typically need before purchasing a home.6 min
- 2Understanding Down PaymentsExplains what a down payment is, how it affects a mortgage, and why requirements vary.6 min
- 3Do You Really Need 20% Down?Examines the common belief that 20 percent down is required, and discusses the tradeoffs of different down payment sizes.6 min
- 4Understanding Closing CostsBreaks down what closing costs are, what they typically include, and how buyers can plan for them.6 min
- 5Earnest Money ExplainedExplains what earnest money is, how much is typical, and what happens to it during a transaction.6 min
- 6Home Inspection CostsExplains what a home inspection is, what it typically costs, and why it is a valuable step for buyers.6 min
- 7Appraisal CostsExplains what a home appraisal is, why lenders require it, and what it typically costs.6 min
- 8Moving ExpensesCovers the typical costs associated with moving into a new home and how to budget for them.6 min
- 9Building an Emergency FundExplains why an emergency fund is important for homeowners and how to approach building one.6 min
- 10Budgeting for Your First Year of HomeownershipGuidance on building a realistic budget that accounts for the full range of costs during the first year of owning a home.6 min
Educational content only — not financial, legal, or tax advice.