Support Us Button Widget
Sponsored Content

3 must-know facts for first-time homebuyers

Sponsored by
Middle aged woman using laptop and having video call while sitting at home and working.

The first step in homebuying should be to meet with a mortgage lender to help you set a timeline and realistic expectations for the process.

Photo provided by AllSouth Federal Credit Union

Ready to make your home ownership dreams come true?

There are some misconceptions when it comes to getting a mortgage. To help simplify things and get you started, the experts at AllSouth Federal Credit Union are helping us sort mortgage myths + facts. Check out these facts before you start the homebuying process:

  • Pre-qualification and pre-approval are not the same thing.
  • A pre-approval does not guarantee you will qualify for a home loan.
  • A lower-than-perfect credit score doesn’t have to deter you from your home ownership goals.

See 3 more mortgage facts

More from COLAtoday
Want to get involved locally but don’t know how? Browse through the City of Columbia’s city boards and commissions that have vacancies and apply.
Here’s the deal — the flea market and vintage shopping scene is stellar in the Soda City
Columbia’s craft beer scene continues to evolve, with longtime favorites expanding, new taprooms opening, and several breweries closing their doors as the industry reshapes after a decade of growth.
Astral Development plans a 483,000 sqft mixed-use project at Bull Street and Elmwood, set to break ground in spring 2026.
It’s the season of the pumpkins, so we’re rounding up a list of places to go picking. Check out these patches, farms, and nurseries.
The number eight symbolizes South Carolina’s history — from the eight Lords Proprietors and colonial rulers to becoming the nation’s eighth state.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Columbia, SC has 230+ years of history. In this guide, we’re diving into the city’s oldest streets and how they got their names.
This year’s theme, Harvesting Happiness, sets the stage for rides, foods, music, and competitions at the SC State Fair.
If you’re short on time this season, this may just be the perfect solution.