The Klaus Team profile image

By The Klaus Team

The Kenny Klaus Team is one of the most successful real estate teams in America. Since 2010, The Kenny Klaus Team has been consistently ranked in the Top 120 teams nationwide by Real Trends and the Wall Street Journal.

Let’s Explore Your Selling Options. We will help you sell your home at the price and terms you want. Free Selling Strategy Call

Are you a first-time buyer worried you need 20% down, or a homeowner unsure what credit score it actually takes to qualify? These are two of the biggest questions in Arizona real estate right now. With so much conflicting info online, many buyers wait longer than they need to. The truth is that you may be much closer to owning than you think.

Currently, multiple loan options allow 0% to 3% down, and real grant or assistance programs can cover part or all of your upfront costs. Credit scores don’t have to be perfect. Many buyers qualify in the low 600s, and FHA or VA can be even more flexible.

“Most first-time buyers purchase with as little as 3% down.”

On the credit side, a few moves like keeping utilization low, making on-time payments, and avoiding common DIY “fixes” such as closing old cards can lift your score faster than you expect. Understanding the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval, knowing your loan options, and planning credit improvements will help you take the right next step toward homeownership.

Watch the full episode to learn what this means for Arizona buyers and sellers, or use the timestamps below to jump to the parts that interest you most:

00:00 — Introduction
00:53 — Understanding Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval
03:56 — Mythbusting: 20% Downpayment
08:44 — Start Making Offers On Your Next Home
11:58 — Move Your Buyers in with 1% Down
14:29 — Credit Scores and Approvals
16:20 — How Credit Scores Work
20:45 — Credit Building Strategies
25:14 — Wrapping up

If you’re considering buying in Arizona, now is the time to get clarity on your numbers and a plan tailored to you. Reach out to (480) 354-7344 or KlausTeam@KlausTeam.com. We can help you understand which programs you qualify for, connect you with trusted lenders, and map your fastest path to the keys.

  • Let’s Explore Your Selling Options. We will help you sell your home at the price and terms you want. Free Selling Strategy Call

  • What’s Your East Valley Home Worth?. Are you thinking of selling your home or interested in learning about home prices in your neighborhood? We can help you. Free Home Value Report

  • Looking for a East Valley Home?. Search the entire MLS for your East Valley home. Search the MLS

  • Free Real Estate Newsletter. Get our latest Q&A, insights, and market updates to make smarter decisions. Subscribe Now

Watch More