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Homebuyers who want modern touches and few maintenance worries may opt to purchase a new construction or have a home built to order.

In December 2025, the median price of a new home was $414,400, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. As homebuyers have found a shortage of existing homes on the market in recent years, new-home construction has worked to fill the gap, with many builders offering incentives. Here’s a guide to understanding this market and learning some of the lingo.

Understanding New Construction Homes

On the upside, newly constructed homes can come with warranty-backed electronics, energy efficiency, and high-end features.

But new construction isn’t without potential snags, such as construction delays and the mounting price of upgrades.

The type of new construction you choose will determine the cost and ability to customize and may also affect your home loan options.

•   Tract homes: These go up in a builder’s new development. The buyer chooses the lot and design features.

•   Speculative, or spec, homes: These are move-in-ready homes, but the buyer still might be able to choose some of the finishes. It’s a good idea to understand the difference between standard property features and upgrades.

•   Custom homes: A builder tailors a house to the buyers’ specifications on their land.

How Do I Buy a New Construction Home?

The first step is to get preapproved for a mortgage and hire a real estate agent. You’ll choose a builder, go over your desired home features, and sign the builder contract, which will include the anticipated timeline, the cost, and all other details.

Mortgage options for a tract or spec home are the same as buying an existing home: conventional or government-backed home loans.

Those who are building a custom home might use a construction loan for the build and then obtain a mortgage once the home is complete. There are, however, Federal Housing Association, Veterans Affairs, U.S. Department of Agriculture, USDA, and conventional construction-to-permanent loans, also called single-close loans.

Figuring Out the Costs of New Construction

How much does it cost to build a new house? For 2,200 square feet, it could cost $330,000, but of course, there are many variables, including location, the price of labor and materials, and your taste.

For a spec home, it might be a good idea to look at comparables in your area. For a new build, HomeAdvisor suggests budgeting for each phase of the project, as well as the necessary time to complete it.

In normal times, expect to spend about 60% of your budget on materials, HomeAdvisor says.

If you are buying a staged model house, the upgrades may be considered marketing costs, and the home may have been walked through many times. You might also have room to negotiate.

Pros and Cons of Building or Buying a New Construction Home

Buying new has its pros and potential cons.

Pros

Everything’s new: Novelty can be a lure all its own. From a practical standpoint, new items signal less maintenance for years.

Additionally, with a from-scratch property, homebuyers may also be able to build their house on the precise plot of land that they want. Buying an existing home could mean having more neighbors nearby or fewer choices about the size or borders of the property.

Warranties: Appliances, roofing, and the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system may be covered by manufacturer and construction warranties. Replacement or repair may be guaranteed for years, which can be a big relief when buying new construction as opposed to buying an existing home. Ask most homeowners about typical home repair costs, and they’ll describe the opposite of fun.

Energy efficiency: Homebuilding has been moving toward energy efficiency, or green architecture. Features such as solar panels, treated windows, efficient lighting, and energy-saving appliances curb home energy expenses over the life of owning a home.

Reduced homebuyer competition: If a buyer opts to build a new home on an undeveloped tract of land, chances are low that a competing homeowner wants to build in that exact location at the same time.

Buying discounts: A local contractor has ties to building supply companies and hardware stores. These business-to-business connections may translate into lower costs.

Cons

Land-starved locations and zoning: The denser a community — think a big city or large suburb — the harder it may be to find land to build on. Moreover, local zoning regulations often regulate the size and type of new homes that can be built on residential lots.

Potential building delays: It takes seven to 12 months on average for a contractor and 12.1 months for an owner to build a house, according to Census Bureau data., That’s a significant wait, but building delays are fairly common and add to the bottom line. If a homebuyer needs to rent, for instance, while the house is being constructed, any delays could mean extra housing expenses.

New-home buyers can prepare for changes by touring similar finished homes in the community, researching the builder’s reputation, and speaking to residents. It’s also a good idea to talk with the builder about common construction delays and how unexpected costs are handled.

Negotiating price may be harder: When working with a homebuilding company, negotiating may not be possible. Many builders attach a minimum price to the construction of a new home.

Upgrades add up: If wood floors, glass-front cabinets, and premium tile are must-haves, be prepared to pay for them. There is usually a starting price attached to newly constructed homes. Upgrades can add substantial costs to a new home.

Buying Tips for Newly Built Homes

Prepare to breathe in that new-house smell, but first, lay the foundation.

Line Up Financing

When it comes to buying any type of house, getting prequalified is good. Getting preapproved is more serious because you will have to let lenders vet your finances and give you a specific amount you qualify for.

Lenders can also recommend the best kind of financing for a new build.

Hire a Real Estate Agent

Homebuyers who want to make a new dream home a reality may want to find a good real estate agent. Here’s one reason why that’s important: The sales contact from the home construction company is hired to represent the seller (i.e., the builder or developer). A buyer’s agent can champion buyers’ interests, negotiate the contract, and answer questions.

Ask for Builder Concessions, and Sign the Contract

Homebuyers aren’t likely to get a builder to slash a new home’s sales price, but they might be able to gain some concessions. Some builders may offer upgrades at a reduced price to incentivize a homebuyer to buy.

Upgrades may include higher-grade carpet, granite countertops, a more advanced HVAC unit, or higher-end kitchen appliances. It doesn’t hurt to ask.

Once you’re pleased with your decisions, you’ll sign the builder contract to buy a spec home or start construction on a new home.

The Takeaway

Newly constructed homes have obvious appeal, but they can come with potential delays and other drawbacks. Buyers who have their heart set on a brand-new home will find that financing often works the same way as it does for an existing-home purchase.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

FAQ

Can you negotiate the price of a new construction home?

Negotiating the price of a new construction home can be challenging, as many builders set a minimum price. However, it might be possible to negotiate upgrades or concessions instead of a price reduction. Homebuyers can work with a real estate agent to help them negotiate with the builder.

What is a realistic budget for building a house?

A realistic budget for building a house will vary depending on the location, size, and desired features. In general, a 2,200-square-foot home requires a budget of around $330,000, not including the cost of land. But cost can increase or decrease depending on the specific materials and finishes chosen.

What are the pros and cons of buying a new construction home?

New construction homes may offer modern features, warranties, and improved energy efficiency. However, buyers should also consider potential construction delays, upgrade costs, and limited flexibility on base pricing. Understanding these trade-offs can help buyers decide whether new construction is the right fit.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SOHL-Q126-113

Deciding whether to pick a 15- or 30-year mortgage largely boils down to what kind of monthly payment you can afford and whether you need financial flexibility.

There’s a reason that the 30-year fixed-rate home loan is by far the most popular. It offers manageable payments that ideally allow room in the budget for other needs and wants.

But borrowers who can afford higher monthly payments and would prefer a lower interest rate may find 15-year mortgages compelling.

How Does a 15-Year Mortgage Work?

When choosing a mortgage term, borrowers who opt for a 15-year fixed-rate loan over a 30-year fixed-rate loan will pay it off faster and save significantly more in interest over the life of the loan. Variable-rate mortgages can be useful in certain situations, but comparison requires more customized calculations, and we will not discuss them here. The main trade-off if you choose a 15-year loan is a significantly higher monthly payment than for a comparable 30-year home loan.

Fifteen-year mortgages typically carry lower interest rates than 30-year mortgages. Consequently, the combination of a lower rate and compressed payoff time means a much lower interest cost overall.

A 15-year mortgage loan for $300,000 with a rate of 4.60% would result in $115,862 in interest paid. The interest on the same loan amount with a 30-year term at 5.80% would be about $333,693, a difference of $217,831.

However, in this example, the basic monthly payment would be $2,310 for the 15-year term vs. $1,760 for the 30-year term. An online mortgage calculator can help you compare how interest rates and term length affect total interest paid and monthly payments.

Lenders charge lower rates for 15-year mortgages because they cost less to underwrite than 30-year loans. Generally speaking, the longer the term of a loan, the riskier it is to lenders, and they price this into the loan through a higher interest rate.

Here are the main pros and cons of 15-year mortgages.

When to Consider a 15-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage

You might want to consider a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage if you’re trying to pay off the loan faster, you want to save on total interest paid, want a lower rate, and can afford the higher monthly payments.

If you’re buying a home close to retirement and are interested in building generational wealth, a 15-year mortgage is also an attractive option as it ensures a faster payoff.

The 15-year mortgage is more frequently used for refinancing than buying, thanks to the lower rate and because most borrowers who choose to refinance are usually several years into their loan.

Consequently, borrowers who have longer-term mortgages with higher interest rates may want to consider refinancing to a 15-year home loan to save on interest costs. However, if you qualify as a first-time homebuyer or are already on a fairly tight budget, a 15-year mortgage might be more than your family finances can handle.

30-Year Mortgage vs 15-Year Mortgage

Borrowers will find the payments on 30-year mortgages to be much more affordable than on 15-year mortgages. The longer the repayment term, the lower the monthly payment, potentially leaving more cash in your pocket every month.

Increased cash flow may allow borrowers to pursue other opportunities, such as preparing for retirement or shoring up emergency savings. Paying off higher-interest debt is also a good plan.

Homeowners may want to have enough cash to add or expand a home office, renovate the kitchen, and generally maintain the value of their home.

What about vacations and buying stuff? Yes and yes.

And some borrowers will also want to set up a college fund.

Like most things, 30-year home loans have upsides and downsides to consider.

When to Consider a 30-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage

You may wish to consider a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage if you’re looking for the most affordable option when buying a home.

Fixed-rate 30-year home loans are the most straightforward and common type of mortgage loan on the market.

Given that home prices are relatively high and interest rates have not dropped substantially in recent years, 30-year home loans are often more attractive than other options. Despite the higher overall interest cost, the lower monthly payments on 30-year mortgages make it easier to afford a home.

Borrowers always have the option of paying off a mortgage early. Every extra principal payment reduces your overall loan balance and the amount of interest that compounds over time.

The final thing to consider is that a 30-year mortgage provides a greater tax benefit than a shorter-term mortgage if you take the mortgage interest deduction.

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Recommended: Mortgage Prequalification vs. Preapproval

Should You Choose a 15-Year or 30-Year Mortgage?

For many homebuyers, the choice of 15- vs. 30-year mortgage will not be voluntary: The monthly payments will force the decision.

If you can choose one or the other, you’ll want to calculate whether you’re able to comfortably commit to a series of high monthly mortgage payments in exchange for the earlier loan payoff and interest savings. Consider whether the lower monthly payments of a 30-year mortgage could leave you with spare money that you could put to better use.

Your income level, career stability, and debt-to-income ratio may largely determine your choice.

Recommended: Home Loan Help Center

The Takeaway

Deciding between a 15- vs. 30-year mortgage depends on your personal budget and financial goals. If you can swing the shorter term, you’ll benefit from a lower interest rate, faster loan payoff, and substantial interest savings.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

FAQ

Is a 30-year mortgage better than a 15-year mortgage?

A 30-year mortgage has lower monthly payments, but a 15-year loan will have less interest over the life of the mortgage. Which is better is a matter of personal choice and affordability.

Is it better to pay off my mortgage for a long period?

If your monthly budget is fairly tight or you have other debts you need to pay off, yes. You’ll pay a lot more in total interest with a long-term home loan than you would with a shorter-term one, but payments will be more affordable.

Can I pay off my 30-year mortgage in 15 years?

Yes, you can pay off the balance ahead of schedule but read your mortgage documents first. Some loans have a prepayment penalty that you will need to factor into your decision.

Are the interest rates for a 30-year mortgage higher than a 15-year mortgage?

Yes, the interest rates for 30-year mortgages are typically higher than 15-year mortgages. Lenders increase the interest rate because of the extra risk of longer-term loans.

Photo credit: iStock/Tatomm

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SOHL-Q126-098

It’s possible to get a home loan while on maternity leave. The process may involve your lender verifying your “temporary leave income,” your regular income, and your agreed-upon date of return. Anyone on a standard temporary leave is considered employed, whether the absence is paid or unpaid.

Read on to learn more about buying a home while pregnant and how pregnancy impacts your ability to get a mortgage.

Buying a House While Pregnant

Hey, why not take on two of the biggest life stressors at once? Sometimes it just happens that way, with parents preparing for a baby and a new home.

First, consider if you can wait until later to buy a home. This may reduce your overall stress levels during your pregnancy and avoid the added pressure of a deadline that may lead to hasty decision-making.

And unless an employer is covering moving expenses, add that sizable cost to all the rest.

But if the move can’t be avoided because of a job relocation or other circumstances, it may be important to find a home before the baby arrives. There may be a silver lining: Saving for a down payment later on could interfere with goals like saving for a child’s college tuition.

Another possible benefit to buying a house while pregnant is that the relocation could lead you to a better school district or area to raise your child.

Ultimately, the decision whether to buy a house while pregnant is personal.

💡 Quick Tip: Want the comforts of home and to feel comfortable with your home loan? SoFi has a simple online application and a team dedicated to closing your loan on time.

What Is the FMLA?

FMLA gives eligible employees job protection and up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave a year in the event of:

•   Childbirth

•   Adoption or foster child care

•   Care for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition

•   A personal serious health condition

•   Qualifying exigencies arising from covered active duty or “call to covered active duty status”

In the case of childbirth, the FMLA guarantees that an employee can return to their job or an equivalent one after pregnancy and that they’ll receive health care benefits during their leave.

Employees are eligible if they work for a company that has 50 or more staffers and have completed at least 1,250 hours of work in the previous year.

In addition to the FMLA’s 12 unpaid weeks off, more and more states are enacting paid family leave laws. Currently, 13 states plus the District of Columbia have made this mandatory. And your employer may cover your pregnancy, childbirth, and recovery thanks to short-term disability insurance benefits, which are a percentage of your normal earnings.

Recommended: How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Child?

How Maternity Leave Impacts a Mortgage

Before diving into the nuances of maternity leave and its impact on qualifying for a mortgage, here’s a quick refresher course on the home-buying process.

Mortgage approval from a lender primarily hinges on two factors:

•   Creditworthiness: How likely is the borrower to pay back the loan, based on their credit history?

•   Ability to pay: Does the borrower generate enough income and have a suitable debt-to-income ratio to make the monthly mortgage payments?

The lender may contact the borrower’s employer to verify their employment status and income.

There are several income-related factors that impact a pregnant borrower’s ability to get a home loan. Consider the following points:,,

•   As long as the lender can verify that the borrower is employed — recall that someone on temporary leave is considered employed — and generates enough income to cover the mortgage, it could be enough.

•   Expectant borrowers aren’t legally required to disclose their pregnancy to a lender. However, the employer can tell the lender about impending maternity leave when they call to verify employment status.

•   If a borrower is going on unpaid leave, the period without pay may qualify as a financial hardship, which a borrower is required to inform a lender of.

•   The lender can’t assume the mother-to-be won’t return to work after maternity leave. In fact, lenders assume that the mother will return to work after maternity leave and continue bringing home paychecks.

•   Before loan approval, the lender will ask the borrower for written notice of her intent to return to work and may ask for an expected return date.

•   The mortgage lender may request a tax slip from the last calendar year if the borrower is a salaried employee.

•   The lender may approve the mortgage if the borrower’s employer verifies in writing that the borrower will return to their previous position or a similar one after their maternity leave. The lender will also consider the timing of the first payment.

•   If the borrower will have returned to work by the time the first mortgage payment is due, the lender can consider regular income in qualifying for the mortgage.

•   If the borrower will return to work after the first mortgage payment due date, the lender must use the borrower’s temporary leave income or regular employment income (whichever is less) and may add available liquid financial reserves.

•   VA loans don’t count temporary leave income toward qualifying for a mortgage.

Should I Buy a Home While on Maternity Leave?

Those who qualify for a mortgage while on maternity leave may ask themselves, “Should I buy a house while on maternity leave?”

As mentioned, moving can be an incredibly stressful process, pregnancy or no pregnancy. And even if you have a budget for a baby, life has a way of throwing surprises at you.

Homeownership can also come with financial surprises. Most homeowners report paying for an unexpected repair within the first year.

Having a child and buying a home require saving some significant cash. Through careful budgeting, it is possible to do both simultaneously. It’s your call. Just remember that taking the double plunge could give you time to review what you need to buy a house.

Recommended: First-Time Homebuyers Guide

The Takeaway

Pregnancy is not a legal limiting factor in the case of a mortgage, but getting a home loan while on maternity leave depends on your income, savings, work return date, and credit history.

Whether you’re on temporary leave or not, it may be worth taking a look at your home loan options.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

FAQ

Does being on maternity leave affect getting a mortgage?

It can, but only with regard to a homebuyer’s reported income. If buyers anticipate an unpaid maternity leave, they may need a sizable savings account.

Should you buy a home on maternity leave?

Buying a home while on maternity leave depends on your family’s needs and finances. But moving can add more stress to taking care of an infant.

Who does FMLA cover?

The Family and Medical Leave Act provides 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for eligible employees in the case of childbirth, adoption or foster child care, or care for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition, for example.

Photo credit: iStock/FatCamera

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOHL-Q126-131

Buying a house is a major step, and planning to purchase a home can be a lot of fun. You get to figure out where you’d hang your favorite artwork, plant a vegetable garden, put the PlayStation — and maybe contemplate taking on some DIY projects yourself.

But there’s another, more nuts-and-bolts aspect to your pursuit of the American Dream: how to budget for a house. Almost 66% of people in the U.S. were homeowners in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to the latest Census data. That’s a good indicator that buying your own home is within reach.

Doing so will likely require you to be smart about your finances in terms of saving and taking on the responsibility of owning a property. To help you be successful in this pursuit, read on for the intel you need, such as:

•  How do I know how much house I can afford?

•  What are the costs/fees to consider?

•  What will my ongoing costs be?

•  How can I budget for a house?

Upfront Expenses

First, consider how much you would have to fork over if you find that perfect center-hall Colonial or loft-style condo. Once an offer on a new home is accepted, there are certain things the buyer needs to pay for right off the bat and, in most cases, out of their own pocket. These are called upfront expenses. Here are a few.

Down Payment

You may have heard of the traditional 20% down payment guideline, which helps you avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI) on applicable loan programs. A higher down payment may also result in better mortgage loan terms, such as a lower interest rate, which may translate into lower monthly mortgage payments.

Yes, it’s a lot of money to put aside, but if you can swing it, in the long run, applying a 20% down payment will likely save you from paying thousands of dollars in additional mortgage interest over the life of the loan. Can’t pull together that big a chunk of change? Look into options of a mortgage lender with a lower or no down payment:

•  The minimum down payment for a first-time homebuyer on a conventional loan can be as little as 3%. You may also need a strong credit profile to qualify, and lenders may set their own minimum credit score requirements.

•  A Federal Housing Administration (FHA) government loan that is open to everyone typically requires a down payment of at least 3.5%.

•  Department of Veterans Affairs (VA loans) or U.S. Department of Agriculture loans may allow eligible borrowers to finance up to 100% of their home’s cost. In other words, no down payment is required.

It’s worth noting that, regardless of the size of your down payment, buying may still reduce your overall monthly expenses, depending on market conditions, interest rates, and individual circumstances.

2% to 5% Closing Costs

You can expect to pay an estimated 2% to 5% of your home price for closing costs and should save accordingly. For example, if you buy a home that costs $300,000, you may be required to pay between $6,000 and $15,000 in closing costs.

Some costs are fixed and not tied to the price. In these cases, the percentage can be higher for the lower range and lower for the higher purchase price range.

What exactly do closing costs comprise? This can include bank charges, such as origination fees and any points you may have purchased to buy down your interest rate, and costs such as the appraisal fee and a title search.

Keep in mind that there are alternatives to paying the closing costs out of pocket, such as requesting a seller credit, requesting a lender credit, or tapping into an applicable down payment assistance program. These options can help you minimize this expense.

Moving Costs

Don’t forget when budgeting for buying a house that you will need funds to move in. Unless you’re lucky enough to have a generous pal with a van, you’re probably going to have to hire a moving company. The average cost of a long‑distance move in 2026 is typically around $3,020, though prices vary based on distance, weight, and service level.

These costs can vary widely, of course. If you are moving with just a bedroom’s worth of furniture versus a whole house, your price tag will be lower. It’s wise to comparison-shop for moving companies and factor this expense into your own budgeting for a home move.

If you’re relocating for work, check with your company to see if it offers a relocation package to help cover some or all of the moving costs.

New Furniture and Appliances

Your new house may not have the same dimensions and style as your old house. This could mean that you need to buy new furniture and appliances. When budgeting for buying a house, you might want to talk to friends or relatives who have moved recently and ask about unexpected expenses. For example, it’s not uncommon when you move to have to purchase items such as new locks, shower rods, and window treatments. These expenses can quickly add up.

You might want to start a savings account for these types of purchases — some of them may be costlier than you imagined.

Recommended: First-Time Homebuyer Guide

Ongoing Expenses

Now that you’ve figured out the details related to the actual purchase, consider the expenses that will accrue once you’re a homeowner. Recurring charges are a vital part of the calculations of how much home you can afford.

Monthly Charges

First, consider how much you’ll be spending every month on your monthly mortgage payment and related costs. Principal, interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and other assessments (PITIA) are the components of a mortgage payment. Here’s how it breaks down:

•  P: The principal is the “meat” of the monthly payment amount — paying down the principal will reduce the loan balance.

•  I: Interest is what you are charged for borrowing the money.

•  T: Taxes refer to your property taxes.

•  I: This “I” refers to insurance. This includes both your homeowners and mortgage insurance, if applicable.

•  A: Other assessments refer to things that may apply to the home you purchase, including HOA dues and flood or earthquake insurance.

HOA Dues

HOA dues typically apply to a condo, co-op, or property owned in a planned community.

The charge is monthly (although it could be quarterly or annually), and the funds usually go toward maintaining the community (landscaping, garbage collection, repairs, and upgrades).

Before purchasing a property with HOA dues, consider asking the association for a complete HOA questionnaire. With this, you can assess how healthy the association is, whether there is any outstanding litigation due to structural or other issues, etc. These factors could impact costs down the road.

Maintenance and Lawn Care

Your budgeting probably won’t stop once you’ve moved and settled into your new home. Expenses will likely continue to knock on your door — landscaping, roof repair, and water heater replacement are just a few items that might require ongoing financial consideration.

You may want to budget for 1% to 4% of the cost of your home each year to pay for maintenance expenses. However, deferred maintenance costs may require more funding, depending on the age, quality of construction, and where you live, for example.

Pest Control, Security, and Utilities

The cost of electricity, gas, water, and internet services differs from market to market. This is also true for pest control and services that help ensure your home is secure and safe. You could find yourself paying more (or even less) for these services depending on where your new home is located.

Quiz: How Much House Can You Afford?

Planning Ahead

So, now that you understand the costs associated with homeownership, you can start working on how to budget for a house.

Ideally, you’ll want to cover your home-buying costs and then be able to afford your monthly carrying costs without racking up debt. The standard advice is that your monthly housing expenses should account for up to 28% of your monthly pretax income. Given how expensive some housing markets can be, it’s not uncommon to find people spending more than that right now.

Here’s some advice for figuring out what you can afford.

Target Mortgage Costs

Do your research on the different types of mortgage loan programs. Determine your price range based on the current interest rates. Find the programs that may best suit you so you’ll feel confident you can bid and afford a home once you have your down payment saved. Don’t forget to factor in those other PITIA expenses mentioned above as you think about your own monthly income and cash outflow when you’re a homeowner.

Build a Budget

Once you have these costs calculated, you can then start budgeting for buying a house. You’ll want to save for your down payment while paying current bills and handling other financial obligations, of course.

•  Create a line item budget. You’ll want to note how much money you have coming in and how much is spent on your needs (housing, food, medical expenses, debt repayment). You’ll see what’s left for your wants (think travel, dining out, clothes, and entertainment) and start saving money for your future home.

◦  Don’t skimp, though, on establishing an emergency fund. In a pinch, these funds can keep you from using your credit card and running up even more debt.

•  Assess where you can save more. To ramp up your savings for your house, look for ways to economize. Could you drop a subscription or two to streaming channels, or perhaps eat out less often?

◦  Also see what you can do to avoid high-interest credit card debt, which can take a bite out of anyone’s budget. You might want to take advantage of a zero-interest balance transfer credit card offer or investigate whether a lower-interest personal loan could help you pay off your debt and save money.

•  Use automatic transfers. Help yourself hit your savings goals by automating payday transfers from checking to savings. That way, you won’t see the cash in your account and be tempted to spend more.

•  Bring in more moolah. If the numbers aren’t adding up to bring your home-buying plans within reach fast enough, consider using windfalls (a tax refund, a bonus at work, or a birthday gift of cash from a relative) to boost your savings. Also think about ways to bring in more income, whether by asking for a raise or pursuing a side hustle.

The Takeaway

Budgeting for buying a house requires thinking about short-term costs, such as a down payment, closing costs, and moving expenses, as well as long-term costs, including homeowners insurance and maintenance expenses. It’s wise to look at both before you pursue a mortgage preapproval or make an offer on a home.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

FAQ

How much money should you save before buying a house?

Ideally, you should save enough money for a 20% down payment, although many homebuyers put down less, and some government programs allow you to buy with no down payment at all. You’ll also want to have money for closing costs (2% to 5% of the home’s price) and an emergency fund in case of an unexpected setback.

How much do I need to earn to afford a house?

This depends on the housing market you’re looking at and the area’s overall cost of living. The national average salary is roughly $62,140 per year, which may be able to afford you a $180,000 home. Use a home affordability calculator to explore the numbers for your specific situation.

What ongoing costs should I expect after buying a house?

Homeownership comes with recurring expenses beyond your mortgage payment. You’ll need to budget for property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA dues (if applicable), utilities, and routine maintenance. Many homeowners set aside 1% to 4% of their home’s value each year for upkeep, plus additional funds for unexpected repairs.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

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Working with a professional real estate agent can make buying or selling a home easier. After all, they are likely to be well versed in the ins and outs of your area, how to best negotiate in the current market, and how to access any other resources (say, a home inspector) that you may need.

While there may be some agents you hit it off with personally, this isn’t a friendship you’re pursuing but an important business relationship. It’s a collaboration that could impact both your finances and your stress level.

No matter which side of a real estate transaction you’re on (buying or selling), it can be wise to have the right professional in your corner. Eighty-eight percent of homes sold in the U.S. involve an agent, according to a 2025 report. (Realtors® are agents who belong to the National Association of Realtors®, or NAR.)

If you’re on the hunt for an agent, it’s important to know what to ask to identify the right match. Read on to learn questions to ask, whether you’re buying or selling a property — or doing both at once. (This is a lengthy list of interview questions for real estate, so pick and choose the questions that resonate the most.)

Table of Contents

How to Interview a Real Estate Agent

First, a bit about terminology: Not all real estate agents are Realtors, but all Realtors are real estate agents.

There are different options for interviewing real estate agents. You could schedule an interview:

•   Over the phone

•   In person

•   Virtually via video conferencing

You might aim to interview at least three agents for comparison’s sake, though you may choose to interview more or fewer.

Create a list of interview questions beforehand to help you stay on track, and begin researching a home loan so you will have a sense of your budget. By the time the interview process is over, you should understand:

•   What the agent’s personality and character are like: Is this person supportive and positive? Do they sound rushed and distracted?

•   What kind of services they offer and what experience they bring to the table.

•   How much you’ll pay for their help.

You’ll learn about how to do this in more depth as you read further.

Recommended: Tips When Shopping for a Mortgage

What to Ask About a Real Estate Agent’s Background

Any real estate agent you choose to work with should have the professional qualifications you’re looking for. But it’s also important to get a sense of who they are as an individual to avoid personality clashes. Here are some questions to ask as you evaluate an agent who might help you buy or sell a home.

1. How Long Have You Been a Real Estate Agent?

It helps to understand how long an agent you’re considering working with has been buying or selling homes. The typical real estate experience of all agents is 10 years, according to NAR.

Working with an agent who’s newer to the profession isn’t necessarily a bad thing. But one who’s more experienced may be more adept at handling any challenges that arise when buying or selling a home.

2. How Well Do You Know the Local Market?

An agent who knows a particular area and its local housing market trends can offer an advantage when buying or selling. Ideally, you should work with an agent who understands the local market and what trends drive it.

The more informed they are, the better equipped they are to do things such as a comparative market analysis, which can give you a sense of how home prices in the area are trending. They will also likely know details such as which parts of town are more prone to flooding than others.

3. How Many Clients Do You Work With at One Time?

This answer can give you an idea of how much time an agent will be able to dedicate to working with you, especially if you ask the follow-up question, “And how many clients do you currently have?”

4. Do You Work Alone or as Part of a Team?

Keep in mind that you may not be working with your agent alone to finalize the purchase or sale of a home. Agents may have a team of individuals they work with, including office managers, personal assistants, or marketing directors, who may reach out to you during the process.

Asking who else you may be connected with can help you avoid surprises if you decide to enter into a working relationship with a particular agent.

5. How Will We Communicate and How Often?

Being able to communicate with an agent is important to keep the process moving. Plenty of agents email and text to keep in touch with clients. If you’re the kind of person who prefers phone calls or in-person meetings, it’s good to identify communication styles up front and make sure they are in sync.

6. Do You Specialize in Buying or Selling?

Some real estate agents may choose to work exclusively with buyers, while others work only with sellers. And some can act as dual agents, representing both the buyer and seller in the same transaction. Dual agency is rare, and it’s illegal in several states. A dual agent can’t take sides or give advice.

The answer to this question will help you get a better idea of whether the agent is attuned to your side of a real estate transaction. Ideally, you want someone who is passionate about your deal, whether that’s finding the perfect house with a picket fence or selling the condo you’ve outgrown.

7. How Many Transactions Did You Close Last Year?

Asking this question can give you an idea of an agent’s overall success rate and the volume of transactions they handle.

The median number of residential transactions agents took part in per year in 2024 is 10. If you’re interviewing agents with closings well below that number, it could be a sign that they aren’t always successful in closing deals. If their number is much higher, it could mean they are very busy, and you might not get as much attention as with another agent.

8. How Long Does It Normally Take You to Close a Deal?

Once the seller and the buyer of a property have signed their purchase agreement, closing on a home can take anywhere from a week (for an all-cash offer) to a couple of months (for offers involving a mortgage) to close. As of late 2025, the average closing time on a house was 41 days after an offer was accepted, according to ICE Mortgage Technology, Inc.

Asking an agent what their average closing time is can give you an idea of how efficiently and diligently they work to satisfy their clients.

If their average closing time is closer to four or six months, for example, that could be a red flag, though some deals do wind up being more complicated than others.

9. What Are the Terms of Your Contract?

Working with an agent means entering into a contract, and it’s important to know what that contract says. These documents may be more common when you work with a broker to sell a home, but there are also buyer’s agreements.

These ensure that if they invest the time scanning the market for you, scheduling walkthroughs, and negotiating on your behalf, you won’t then complete the deal with, say, a relative of yours who just got their real estate license.

When you are selling a house, you’ll sign a document agreeing that the agent will handle the sale. Once you sign a contract, you’re typically locked in to working with them unless they agree to release you.

The listing agreement will last for a set period, such as three or six months. From your perspective, shorter may be better so that you’re not trapped if you don’t like the agent’s services.

10. What Fees Do You Charge?

Closely connected to contracts is the topic of money. How does it change hands? What are you liable for? Historically, real estate agents worked on commission, and the fee was paid by the seller. Now, real estate commission fees are changing, and while sellers will still likely pay agents a commission, there is no guarantee that the seller will pay the buyer’s agent. If you’re buying, you’ll need to discuss a fee structure with an agent before you begin working together. It might be an hourly fee or perhaps a flat rate. Some agents may request a percentage of the home price.

Recommended: Do You Still Need to Put a 20% Down Payment on a House?

Questions to Ask a Real Estate Agent When You Are Selling

If you’re selling your home, here are some questions to ask to help ensure that you partner with the right agent.

11. What’s Your Typical Marketing Strategy?

A real estate agent should have a clear plan for listing and marketing your home in a way that produces the greatest odds of success in selling it quickly and at your desired price point. Let the agent you are interviewing tell you about their strategy and the results it yields.

For instance, does the agent believe in listing at a low price in the hopes of starting a bidding war? If so, what kinds of prices has this achieved? Where will your listing be posted? Will videos be created? Will there be an open house?

These kinds of questions can help you see if you are impressed by and aligned with how an agent likes to market homes.

12. Will You Handle Staging and Prep Work?

If you’re selling a home, staging it could help influence buyers’ perceptions of the property and potentially net you a higher sale price.

Staging is something you can do yourself, but your agent may have a staging company they work with to get the job done.

Asking about staging or small cosmetic updates, such as painting, can help you figure out what you’ll be responsible for to get your home ready for the market. There’s a price tag attached to all improvements, so you’ll want to know the numbers to be better prepared.

13. How Do You Handle Viewings?

The use of digital tools, such as virtual tours, have made properties more accessible to more buyers. A Harris Poll from November 2025 found that 25% of people who plan to buy a home in the next 12 months will use artificial intelligence to visualize design elements or potential renovations.

See if your agent plans to create a virtual tour, but you also want to be prepared for the majority of buyers who want to visit in person. Ask agents how many viewings they typically schedule in a day or a week, how often open houses will be scheduled, and how they’ll be marketed.

Questions to Ask a Real Estate Agent When You Are Buying

Now that you’ve learned the questions to ask an agent when selling, how about the other side of the deal? Whether you’re shopping for a starter home or trading up, here are a couple of important questions to ask a potential real estate agent when preparing to buy a house.

14. What Happens When I’m Ready to Make an Offer?

If you’re a buyer, agents should be able to walk you through how this process works, what to do if the seller makes a counter offer, and what you’ll need to do next if your offer is accepted. You also want to check if they have experience with successfully navigating bidding wars, which can happen in hot markets and with well-priced properties.

Also, check that they can advise you on how much earnest money you might need to pay and how to find a good, affordable home inspector, as these are important aspects of the homebuying process.

15. Will You Help Me With Getting a Mortgage?

This question will shed more light on a prospective agent’s network and experience. Agents may be able to offer recommendations for mortgage lenders. They may also be willing to communicate with your lender if there are questions about the property or the offer during underwriting.

You’re not obligated to use your agent’s recommended lender. In fact, it’s helpful to compare mortgage loan terms and interest rates from multiple lenders to find the option that best fits your needs.

The Takeaway

Due diligence in the search for the right real estate agent may mean interviewing a few of them and not automatically going with a friend of a friend. It’s important to know how to interview an agent and which questions to ask, so you can pair up with the best possible professional as you navigate this major transaction.

If you’re a buyer, once you’ve found an agent, you can turn your attention to next steps: finding a home (and a home loan) that suits your needs.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

FAQ

What are the benefits of using a real estate agent to buy a house?

Having an agent to survey the available properties and recommend the ones that suit your needs could certainly save you time, and agents often have local market expertise and the inside scoop on properties that might be headed to market. An agent should also be well versed in the negotiation process (especially useful in a seller’s market) and able to help coordinate the many moving parts that lead to a closing.

What should a homebuyer do before talking to a real estate agent?

It’s wise to have an idea of your budget before consulting a real estate agent. You can prequalify for a mortgage with a few lenders to get a sense of what you might be able to borrow. You should also research your desired town or neighborhood to get a sense of where you would like to live. And know your nonnegotiables — a minimum number of bedrooms or whether you prefer an old home over new construction, for example.

What are the advantages of using a local real estate agent?

A real estate agent based in the city or neighborhood you’re looking to move to can have a wealth of knowledge about the community, including details on schools, weather patterns, and local contractors. They may also have connections to preferred lenders.

About the author

Rebecca Lake

Rebecca Lake has been a finance writer for nearly a decade, specializing in personal finance, investing, and small business. She is a contributor at Forbes Advisor, SmartAsset, Investopedia, The Balance, MyBankTracker, MoneyRates and CreditCards.com. Read full bio.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

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