Your First Home Starts Here — Local Experts, Real Guidance.
Zarro Mortgage Group helps first-time buyers in Martin & St. Lucie County secure affordable home loans with confidence.
Zarro Mortgage Group specializes in helping a first-time homebuyer in Martin County and St. Lucie County get pre-approved fast.
What Is a First-Time Homebuyer Program?
Buying your first home can feel overwhelming — but with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be. At Zarro Mortgage Group, we help first-time buyers explore mortgage programs, down payment assistance, and affordable financing options across Martin and St. Lucie Counties.
Whether you’re comparing FHA Loans, or Conventional Loans our team will walk you through each step — from pre-approval to closing.
Types of Home Loans For First Time Home Buyers
We know your first home purchase comes with a lot of “firsts” — your first pre-approval, your first down payment, your first closing day. At Zarro Mortgage Group, we make that process simple by helping you choose a mortgage program built around you.
Each loan option below is designed to help first-time homebuyers qualify more easily, save on upfront costs, and step confidently into homeownership.
FHA Loans
FHA loans are one of the most popular first-time buyer programs because they’re built to help you qualify — even if your credit or savings aren’t perfect. With low down payments and flexible guidelines, FHA makes it easier to buy your first home sooner.
- Down payments as low as 3.5%
- More forgiving credit requirements (580 + qualifies)
- Lower closing costs in many cases
- Assumable by future buyers — great resale advantage
Conventional Loans
Conventional loans aren’t just for seasoned buyers — they’re an excellent choice for first-time homebuyers with solid credit and steady income. With flexible down-payment options and the ability to cancel private mortgage insurance later, you can save thousands over time.
- Down payments starting at just 3% for first-time buyers
- Lower long-term costs with no upfront mortgage insurance
- Ability to remove PMI once you reach 20% equity
- Ideal for buyers who plan to stay in their home long-term
VA Loans
For first-time homebuyers who have served in the military or are currently active-duty, VA loans offer unmatched benefits — zero down payment, no PMI, and lower interest rates than most programs. It’s the ultimate reward for service and a powerful first-home solution.
- No down payment required
- No private mortgage insurance
- Competitive interest rates backed by the VA
- Easier approval for qualified veterans and service members
Understanding Your Credit Profile
Your credit score is one of the most important factors in determining your mortgage eligibility and interest rate. Here’s what you need to know about credit requirements for home loans. Understanding your credit score helps us match you with the best home loans in Martin County for your situation.
Need help reviewing your credit profile? Our team can walk you through your report and help you prepare for approval. Contact Zarro Mortgage Group. A healthy debt-to-income ratio improves your eligibility for home loans in Martin County and better rates.
Credit Score Ranges
760+
Excellent Credit
Best rates and terms available, most loan programs accessible.
740+
Good Credit
Competitive rates, wide range of loan options available.
580-669
Fair Credit
FHA and some conventional loans available, higher rates may apply.
Below 580
Poor Credit
Limited options, may require credit improvement or alternative programs.
Understanding Closing Costs
Closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of your home’s purchase price. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect and how to prepare. We guide first-time homebuyers through every step of the mortgage pre-approval process.
Average Closing Costs Example
Home Price
$300,000
2% – 5%
Total Estimate
$6,000 – $15,000
Lender Fees
1-2% of loan amount
- Origination fee
- Application fee
- Underwriting fee
- Processing fee
- Credit report fee
Third-Party Fees
Varies
- Appraisal fee ($500-$650)
- Home Inspection ($300-$500)
- Title Search & Insurance
- Attorney Fees
- Survey Fee
Prepaid Costs
Varies
- Homeowners Insurance Premium
- Property Tax (prorated)
- Prepaid interest
- HOA Fees (if applicable)
- Mortgage Insurance (if required)
Escrow & Other
Varies
- Escrow account deposit
- Recording fees
- Transfer taxes
- Courier fees
- Notary fees
Important Closing Documents
Loan Estimate
Received within 3 business days of application. Shows estimated closing costs.
Closing Disclosure
Received at least 3 business days before closing. Shows final costs.
Title Report
Confirms property ownership and identifies any liens or issues.
Ways To Reduce Closing Costs
-
Ask for Seller Credits
Negotiate for the seller to cover some closing costs
-
Close at Month-End
Reduce prepaid interest by closing near the end of the month
-
Review Your Loan Estimate
Carefully review and question any fees that seem excessive
-
Consider No-Closing-Cost Loans
Roll closing costs into your loan (results in higher rate)
-
Look for Assistance Programs
Research state and local programs that help with closing costs
Why Choose Zarro Mortgage Group for Your Home Loans in Martin County?
As a local mortgage lender in Martin County, we understand the Treasure Coast market and offer personal guidance you won’t get from national banks
Our local expertise and years of experience make us one of the top lenders for home loans in Martin County, St. Lucie County and the Treasure Coast.
Fast Approvals
Get pre-approved in as little as 24 hours with our streamlined process.
Expert Guidance
Our experienced loan officers guide you through every step of the journey.
Competitive Rates
We shop multiple lenders to find you the best rates and terms available.
Dedicated Support
Direct access to your loan officer from application through closing.
Latest Articles & Resources
Zarro Mortgage Group is a trusted mortgage lender in Martin County, helping homebuyers find the right financing for every stage of life.
Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Home Loan in Martin County
Buying your first home is a big milestone — but you don’t have to take it alone.
At Zarro Mortgage Group, we make the mortgage process simple, transparent, and local. Our team specializes in home loans throughout Martin County and St. Lucie County, helping first-time buyers, families, and retirees find the right financing fit.
Working with a local mortgage lender means faster approvals, competitive rates, and real people guiding you every step of the way. Whether you’re comparing programs or ready to get pre-approved, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.
How do I get pre-approved for a home loan in Martin County?
Getting pre-approved with Zarro Mortgage Group is quick, local, and straightforward.
Our team will review your credit, income, and goals to determine how much home you can comfortably afford. Pre-approval gives you a competitive edge when shopping — showing sellers you’re serious and financially ready.
💡 Tip: Use our Mortgage Affordability Calculator to get an estimate before you apply.
What types of mortgage loans are available in Martin County & St. Lucie County?
We offer a full suite of home loan programs to fit every kind of buyer, including:
FHA Loans – Perfect for first-time buyers with low down payments.
Conventional Loans – Competitive rates and flexible options for strong credit borrowers.
VA Loans
– Zero down payment for qualified veterans and service members.
USDA Loans – 100% financing for rural and suburban homes.
Jumbo Loans – For high-value homes that exceed conforming limits.
Need help deciding which program fits you best? Explore all your mortgage loan options with our team.
How much down payment do I need to buy a home?
Your down payment depends on the loan type — but it’s often less than you think.
FHA Loans: As little as 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score.
Conventional Loans: As low as 3–5% down for qualified first-time buyers.
USDA & VA Loans: Zero down payment required for eligible borrowers.
💰 Want to see what’s possible? Try our Down Payment Calculator to estimate what you’ll need based on your price range.
Why should I work with a local mortgage lender instead of a national bank?
Big banks see you as a number — we see you as a neighbor.
At Zarro Mortgage Group, we combine competitive national loan programs with local expertise and faster communication. You’ll work directly with experienced mortgage professionals who understand Martin County’s housing market, local appraisals, and closing timelines.
⭐ Personalized service.
⭐ Faster pre-approvals and updates.
⭐ Real people who answer the phone.
Meet your local mortgage experts here →.
What credit score do I need to buy a home?
Most home loans require a minimum credit score of 580–620, depending on the program:
FHA: 580+ (with 3.5% down)
Conventional: 620+
VA & USDA: Typically 640+
If your score isn’t quite there, don’t worry — our team can help you develop a short-term plan to improve your credit and qualify sooner.
🔍 Check your affordability now with our Mortgage Payment Calculator.
Ready to Start Your Home Buying Journey in Martin County & the Treasure Coast?
Take the first step toward homeownership today. Our expert team specializes in home loans in Martin County and is ready to guide you through every stage of the mortgage process with personalized service and local insight.
Fast approvals. Local experts. Trusted on the Treasure Coast.
24-48 Hour
$50M+
4.8 ★ on Google Reviews
Top-Rated Mortgage Lender in Martin County