This Old House asks:
What advice do you have for first-time homebuyers looking to save for a down payment?
Save as much as you can, and if you have the ability to, try to save for paying closing costs, too, Check to see if your state offers a first-time homebuyers savings account program. Some states offer special savings accounts to help first-time homebuyers which may provide a state tax benefit for money deposited up to a certain limit. You will be held to any requirements and restrictions under the program, so be sure to check on what those are first. You can also check with your local Housing Finance Authority to see if they have downpayment assistance or other programs to help you obtain a loan or purchase a home. Both usa.gov and hud.gov have information on homebuying and in particular, resources for first-time homebuyers, including links to resources available by state.
