Published January 5, 2026 | 12 min read
Buying your first home in Bergen County is one of the most exciting decisions you'll make. After helping over 150 first-time buyers navigate this process, I've compiled everything you need to know into this comprehensive guide for 2026.
Quick Answer: You can buy a home with as little as 0% down (VA loans) or 3% down (Conventional 97). For a $400,000 home, that's $0 to $12,000 down.
Minimum 580 for FHA (3.5% down), 620+ for conventional. Higher scores mean better interest rates.
Expect 2-5% of purchase price. For a $400,000 home: $8,000-$20,000 including lender fees, title insurance, attorney, appraisal, inspections, and escrow.
Up to $15,000 in down payment assistance. 0% interest, deferred loan. Eligibility: haven't owned in 3+ years, 620+ credit, income limits apply.
60-90 days from offer acceptance to closing. Including home search: 3-6 months total.
Author: Heather Corrigan, CDRE, SRES
Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert and Seniors Real Estate Specialist with RE/MAX Signature Homes in Closter, NJ.
339+ five-star reviews. 80+ families helped in 2025. 3x Bergen County Real Producers Cover Feature.
Contact: (917) 440-3767 | heather.gocard@gmail.com
Office: RE/MAX Signature Homes, 189 Homans Ave, Closter, NJ 07624