11-page PDF
First-Time Homebuyer Guide
A step-by-step roadmap covering credit preparation, saving, pre-approval, offers, closing, and a printable master checklist.
Included in the free kitHome financing resourcesA little preparation.
Your first home starts with a plan.
A little preparation.
A clearer path home.
Understand the process, organize your budget, and build better credit habits with the free Homebuyer Starter Kit.
Get the free kit3 practical resources$0 to downloadNo loan application
Your roadmap from preparation to closing.
Inside your starter kit
Three tools. One place to begin.
Excel workbook · 7 tabs
Budget & Debt Payoff Planner
Plan monthly spending, list up to 10 debts, and compare snowball, avalanche, and minimum-payment estimates.
Included in the free kit3-page PDF
Credit Score Boost Checklist
Review your credit reports, build better payment habits, and map out your next 90 days. No score increase is guaranteed.
Download the free checklistLess guesswork. More preparation.
Make your next step feel manageable.
- 1
Get the big picture
Read the guide and use its master checklist to see what comes next.
- 2
Put your numbers in one place
Open the planner in Microsoft Excel and replace the example figures with your own. Enable calculation if results appear blank.
- 3
Build a routine
Use the credit checklist to choose practical actions for the next 90 days.
Keep personal financial details in your own copy of the workbook. You do not need to upload bank statements, account numbers, or your completed planner to use these resources.
A few things to know
Is the kit really free?
Yes. All three files are free. No payment card, subscription, credit check, or loan application is required.
Will someone contact me?
Only if you choose the optional personal follow-up permission. Requesting the kit does not subscribe you to a marketing list or authorize a lender to contact you.
Which app do I need for the planner?
Use Microsoft Excel for the .xlsx workbook. It contains formulas and example figures that you should replace. Other spreadsheet apps may import it, but their calculations and charts have not been verified.
Does this help me get approved for a mortgage?
The kit is for education and planning. It is not pre-approval, a credit-repair service, or a guarantee of a higher credit score or a loan offer. Speak with a licensed mortgage professional about your situation.
RateHarbor is a consumer marketing and matching service, not a lender, mortgage broker, financial adviser, or credit-repair organization. These resources provide general information; program requirements and costs vary. Ask our team about service availability.