Answers before you ask
A free checklist, the documents you’ll need, credit basics and the questions buyers ask most.
What clients say
“Had the pleasure to work with Stone Merton out of Jacksonville, Florida! Was a pleasure working with him. Very knowledgeable and didn’t treat me like just a customer. Stone treated my wife and I like a friend and made getting our first house a wonderful experience!”
“Our first time selling a home and moving into our forever dream home. Working with Stone had been one of the easiest and least challenging processes that I have ever gone through!! Stone was extremely attentive to my questions and needs. He would always reply quickly to any questions I had and would do everything within his power to make this a seamless process!! I highly recommend The Anchor Team for any of your real estate dealings!!”
“Great experience , long hours of support, sometimes after hours ,question's always answered, 7 days a week always there for me ! I would refer to all my friends.”
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The First-Time Buyer Readiness Checklist
A short, free PDF: where you stand on credit, savings, documents and timing before you apply.
Enter your details and the download appears right away.
First-time buyer FAQ
Short, honest answers. Still stuck? Book a call.
What is the first step to buying a home?
Start with a conversation about your goals, budget and timeline. A free consultation helps you understand your options before you apply or start touring homes.
What is the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?
Pre-qualification is usually a quick estimate based on information you provide. Pre-approval involves a review of your documents and credit, so it carries more weight with sellers. Neither is a final loan approval or a commitment to lend.
How much do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the loan program, the home and your situation. Several programs are designed for smaller down payments, and assistance programs may be available. Eligibility and availability vary by program, location and borrower.
What credit score do I need?
Each program has its own guidelines, and a score is only one part of the picture. Some borrowers may also be reviewed through manual underwriting. A conversation will tell you where you stand.
What is down payment assistance?
Down payment assistance programs may provide funds toward a down payment or closing costs for eligible buyers. Examples include the Chenoa Fund and Florida's SHIP program. Requirements vary by program, location and borrower.
Is down payment assistance only for first-time buyers?
No. There are assistance programs for first-time buyers and for people who have owned before. Which ones you may be eligible for depends on the program, the location and your situation, so ask before you assume.
What documents will I need to apply?
Commonly: photo ID, recent pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns, recent bank statements and information about your current housing. The checklist below has the full list, and I will tell you what is specific to you.
How long does the process take?
It varies with the loan type, the property and how quickly documents are provided. I'll give you a realistic picture of the timeline once we talk about your situation.
What is manual underwriting?
A review by a person instead of only an automated system. It may consider non-traditional credit like rent and utility history. It is available on certain programs and has its own requirements.
Where are you licensed?
I am currently licensed in Florida only. You can verify my licence on NMLS Consumer Access; the link is in the footer of every page.
Does it cost anything to talk to you?
No. The consultation is free and there is no obligation.
Have a question that isn’t here?
Ask me directly. It’s free and there’s no obligation.
Not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval and program guidelines.
Documents to gather
Commonly requested items. I’ll tell you what applies to you.
Government-issued photo ID
Social Security number (for the application)
Pay stubs for the last 30 days
W-2s for the last two years
Federal tax returns for the last two years (all pages)
Bank statements for the last two months (all pages)
Retirement or investment account statements, if used for funds
Names and addresses of landlords or lenders for the last two years
Gift letter and donor information, if someone is helping with funds
Self-employed: year-to-date profit and loss statement and business bank statements
Veterans: Certificate of Eligibility or DD-214 (we can request the COE together)
Credit basics
General education, not credit repair or financial advice.
Pay on time, every time
Payment history is a major part of most credit scores. Even one late payment can matter, so set reminders or autopay.
Keep card balances low
Using a smaller share of your available credit generally helps your score.
Don't open or close accounts right before applying
New credit and big changes can complicate a file. Check with me first.
Check your reports for errors
You can get free credit reports at annualcreditreport.com. If something is wrong, you have the right to dispute it.
Ask before big purchases
A new car loan or furniture on credit can change what you qualify for. A quick call can save you trouble.
Local to the First Coast
Based in Middleburg, helping buyers across Jacksonville and Northeast Florida.
- Middleburg, FL
- Jacksonville, FL
- Orange Park, FL
- Fleming Island, FL
- Green Cove Springs, FL
- Clay County, FL
Area photography, credited below.
Ready for the next step?
Ready to move forward?
Start your application online. It takes about 10 minutes.
Not sure where to start?
Book a free, no-obligation call. Bring your questions.
- Free, no-obligation consultation
- Takes about 10 minutes to start
- Or call (904) 844-1148
Not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval and program guidelines.