First time home buyer in Mesa AZ: the 2026 Maricopa County FHA limit, FHA vs conventional at Mesa prices, VA, what assistance really applies, and Arizona buying steps. Pillar Mortgage Group.
First time home buyer in Phoenix AZ: the 2026 Maricopa FHA limit, FHA, conventional 97 and VA options, Open Doors facts with an honest cost check, and Arizona buying steps. Pillar Mortgage Group.
Down payment assistance in Arizona is a second lien, not free money. HOME Plus is forgiven after 60 months, repaid on sale or refinance before then, and AzIDA says rates may be slightly higher. Blake's take. Pillar Mortgage Group.
What credit score do you need to buy a house in Arizona? FHA 580 with 3.5% down, conventional around 620, VA set by lenders, plus Arizona down payment assistance minimums. Sourced 2026 guide for first time buyers. Pillar Mortgage Group.
Who counts as a first time home buyer? Anyone with no home ownership in the past 3 years, per Fannie Mae and HUD, plus exceptions for spouses, single parents and more. What it changes for Arizona loans. Pillar Mortgage Group.
How much cash do you need to buy a house in Arizona? Down payment by loan type, Arizona closing costs from First American, prepaids, earnest money and seller credit limits, worked on a $400,000 home. Pillar Mortgage Group.
Straight answers on buying, refinancing, and selling a home in Scottsdale, Phoenix, and across Arizona, from Blake Hermann, Director of Lending at Pillar Mortgage Group (NMLS #2271358).