A comfortable monthly payment
Include the mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and any mortgage insurance or association dues that may apply.
Jay KimSenior Loan Officer · NMLS #19550220+ years of mortgage experience First-time home buyer guidance in MD, VA & DC
First-time home buying starts with a plan you understand.
Get clear on your payment, cash to close, and loan options before you commit to a home—or a lender.
No application or credit check required to start
G4.9Google reviewsStart with real numbers
Get clear on three things before you shop.
You can make better decisions once the numbers reflect your life—not just the maximum a lender might approve.
Your estimated cash to close
Look at the down payment and closing costs together while keeping room for moving, repairs, and savings.
The right next step for you
Decide whether to prepare, seek preapproval, or keep researching. You stay in control of the timing.
Twenty percent down is not always required. Lower-down-payment options may be available to qualified buyers.
Assistance is not one-size-fits-all. Eligibility and tradeoffs can depend on income, location, and the property.
You may still count as a first-time buyer. Many programs use no ownership of a principal residence during the previous three years, but rules vary.
A person you can ask
Clear answers. No pressure.
Jay explains your options in plain language and gives advice that fits your situation—even if the right move is to wait or choose another lender.
20+ years of mortgage experience · Licensed in Maryland, Virginia & Washington, DC
4.9 on Google · Read more reviews →“Jay guided us through each step with clarity, patience, and genuine care.” Hyewon Ryu · Google Review
“Jay even checked on us after we moved into our place, letting us know he really cares about his clients.” Michael Chandler · Google Review
Start with one question
Tell Jay what you are trying to figure out.
Choose what you need help with and where you plan to buy. Jay typically follows up personally within one business day.
No applicationNo credit checkNo obligation
Not sure your credit is ready? That is common. Jay can explain what may matter and what to work on next. Asking a question will not affect your credit.
First-time buyer questions
The questions most buyers ask first.
The exact answer depends on your finances, goals, and where you plan to buy.
You do not need to be ready to apply before asking Jay a question.
Do first-time home buyers need 20% down?
Not always. Some conventional and government-backed loan options allow qualified buyers to put less down. The right comparison includes the monthly payment, mortgage insurance, cash reserves, and total cost—not just the down payment.
Could a first-time buyer or assistance program help me?
Possibly. Programs may have income, location, purchase-price, occupancy, credit, or education requirements. Jay can help identify options worth checking and explain their tradeoffs; eligibility and funding are not guaranteed.
What should I budget beyond the down payment?
Plan for closing costs as well as moving expenses, inspections, initial repairs, and an emergency cushion. Your estimated cash to close should account for the down payment and closing costs together.
Is my credit score high enough to buy a home?
There is no single score that fits every buyer or loan program. Jay can explain which options may be worth exploring and what to work on next. Asking a question does not affect your credit; if you later seek preapproval, AMCFG uses a soft credit pull.
When should I get preapproved?
Preapproval becomes useful when you are preparing to tour homes seriously or make an offer. Talking earlier can help you spot issues, set a comfortable budget, and decide when you want to take that step.
Can I count as a first-time buyer if I owned before?
For many programs, a buyer may qualify as first-time if they have not owned a principal residence during the previous three years. Definitions and exceptions vary by program, so Jay can help you check the rules that apply.
Your next step can be a conversation—not an application.
Ask what is on your mind and decide what comes next.