First-Time Homebuyer Class · Washington
Start You Homebuying Journey with Confidence
Join a free Washington first-time homebuyer education class covering financial preparation, financing, down-payment assistance, working with real estate professionals, making an offer, inspections, escrow, closing, and the joys and responsibilities of homeownership.
Next Class
New Class Dates Are Coming Soon
Join the notification list and we will let you know when the next first-time homebuyer class is available.
WASHINGTON HOMEBUYER EDUCATION
A comprehensive introduction to the Washington homebuying process.
This free first-time homebuyer class class provides Washington homebuyers with practical education about preparing for homeownership, financing options, down-payment assistance programs, working with real estate professionals, making an offer, inspections, escrow, closing, and the responsibilities of owning a home.
Course completion and certificate eligibility are subject to full attendance and applicable Washington State Housing Finance Commission requirements.
What You'll Learn
A clear, complete picture — start to finish.
Financial Readiness
- Building a realistic homeownership budget
- Understanding income, expenses, and debt
- Preparing for upfront homebuying costs
- Preparing for ongoing homeownership expenses
- Understanding reserves and emergency savings
Credit and Financing
- Understanding credit and credit reports
- Improving financial readiness
- Mortgage preapproval
- Conventional, FHA, and VA financing
- Other available loan options
- Understanding interest rates
- Understanding loan terms
- Understanding monthly mortgage payments
Down-Payment Assistance
- Washington homebuyer assistance programs
- General eligibility considerations
- Down-payment and closing-cost assistance
- Gift funds
- Potential sources of funds
- Confirming current requirements with a qualified lender or program administrator
Working With Professionals
- Selecting a mortgage lender
- Understanding buyer representation
- Working with a real estate professional
- Working with an inspector
- Working with title and escrow
- Understanding the role of the appraiser
- Questions buyers should ask before selecting a professional
Finding and Purchasing a Home
- Establishing a home-search strategy
- Identifying priorities
- Reviewing property information
- Understanding market conditions
- Making an offer
- Negotiating an offer
- Earnest money
- Financing, inspection, and appraisal contingencies
- Common contract timelines
Due Diligence and Closing
- Home inspections
- Appraisals
- Reviewing title
- Understanding escrow
- Closing costs
- Final loan approval
- Final walkthrough
- Signing documents
- Closing and receiving possession
After Closing
- Home maintenance
- Homeowners insurance
- Property taxes
- Budgeting for repairs
- Planning for future expenses
- Responsibilities of homeownership
Who Should Attend
This Class May Be Right for You If…
- You have never purchased a home.
- You previously owned a home but are returning to homeownership.
- You are currently renting and want to understand what it takes to buy.
- You are unsure whether your credit or savings are ready.
- You want to learn about Washington homebuyer programs.
- You want to understand down-payment assistance options.
- You expect to purchase within the next several months.
- You may not purchase for several years but want to prepare.
- You are attending with a spouse, partner, co-buyer, or family member.
- You want to understand the process before speaking with a lender or touring homes.
You do not need to be preapproved or actively shopping for a home to attend.
INSTRUCTORS
Learn From Washington Real Estate and Lending Professionals
Learn from experienced Washington real estate and mortgage professionals who will explain the homebuying process, financing considerations, available assistance programs, offers, inspections, escrow, closing, and the responsibilities of homeownership.
Ambrosia Austin
Washington Real Estate Broker
Thomas Austin Real Estate at Compass
Washington Real Estate License #22028197
Ambrosia Austin is a Washington Real Estate Broker with Thomas Austin Real Estate at Compass. She helps buyers understand the homebuying process, prepare for the market, coordinate with lenders and other professionals, and make informed real estate decisions. Her approach emphasizes education, preparation, clear communication, and practical guidance.
Jeff McGinnis
Senior Loan Officer
CrossCountry Mortgage
NMLS #279369
Jeff McGinnis is a senior loan officer with CrossCountry Mortgage and has more than 25 years of mortgage lending experience. He works with first-time homebuyers, veterans, and other borrowers to help them understand financing options and prepare for homeownership. Jeff is known for his lending expertise, client-focused guidance, and commitment to helping borrowers move confidently through the mortgage process.
Registration
New class dates are coming soon.
Join the notification list and we will let you know when the next first-time homebuyer class is available.
Your registration information will be used to administer the class, communicate attendance information, and provide class-related updates. Optional marketing communications require separate consent.
New class dates are coming soon.
Join the notification list and we will let you know when the next first-time homebuyer class is scheduled.
Contact us about the classFrequently Asked
Questions, answered.
Homebuyer Education
Ready to Learn How Homebuying Works?
Whether you plan to buy soon or are simply beginning your research, this class will help you understand the process and prepare your next steps.