Buying your first home? Start here.
Your first home is exciting—but the down payment, loan choices, and closing costs can bring up a lot of questions. I put together a free First-Time Homebuyer Handbook to help Northwest Indiana buyers know what to expect and feel ready for the next step.
Inside, you’ll learn how to think through your budget, explore low down payment options, prepare for inspections, and understand what happens between your offer and closing day.
I’m Holly Brumm Furdo. I’ll be in your corner to answer questions and help you make informed decisions at your own pace.
Read my Northwest Indiana First-Time Homebuyer Guide!
Send a message and I'll redirect you to my comprehensive guide. You've never done this before, and that is exactly why I am here. This guide breaks down the complex process of buying your first home in Lake, Porter, and Newton Counties into actionable steps so you can move forward with certainty.
WHAT YOU ACTUALLY NEED TO KNOW
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Buying your first home is exciting but can bring up questions. This guide simplifies budgets, down payments, and closing day—and I'm always here to help you make informed decisions!
Why Work with Holly
As a lifelong resident of Northwest Indiana, I bring unparalleled local knowledge and over 30 years of business management experience to every real estate transaction. My background in marketing and interior design allows me to provide strategic staging and advertising to get your home sold for the best price possible. For first-time homebuyers, I offer honest, ethical guidance to ensure finding your new place to grow roots is an exciting and stress-free journey. I treat all of my clients like family because I know that buying or selling a home is one of your biggest financial decisions. I am humble, hard-working, and ready to put my time, talents, and keen negotiation skills to work for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Not at all! Indiana has excellent state-backed programs specifically built to help first-time buyers get into a home without draining their savings. Programs like IHCDA First Place and Next Home offer down payment assistance—some of which is even forgivable if you stay in the home for a certain number of years.
Most first-time buyer programs in Indiana look for a minimum credit score around 640. However, getting your score to 680 or above will unlock better interest rates and loan terms. If your score is a little low right now, don't worry—a few months of paying down balances can make a massive difference.
You need to budget for closing costs. These are typically a few percent of the final purchase price and cover essential items like lender fees, title insurance, and prepaid property taxes. Some down payment assistance programs can also help offset these costs.
Always get pre-approved first! Getting pre-approved tells us exactly what you can afford and shows sellers that you are a serious, qualified buyer. It also ensures we factor in the hidden costs of your monthly payment, like township property taxes and HOA fees, before you fall in love with a property.
No, skipping a home inspection is one of the biggest mistakes a first-time buyer can make. An inspection protects you from buying a home with hidden, expensive issues like structural damage or failing HVAC systems. As your agent, I will help you negotiate a strong offer while still protecting your investment.
Ready to make your next move?
I invite you to reach out anytime to see how I may help you achieve your real estate goals!
