Get a personalized mortgage breakdown and see what kinds of programs that can help 1st time buyers.
If you are currently paying $3,000 per month in rent, you are already proving you can handle a significant monthly housing cost. In today's market (as of early 2026), that same $3,000 monthly budget could potentially afford you a home priced at approximately $480,000.
When you transition from renting to buying, your $3,000 "all-in" payment is typically split into four categories:
Principal & Interest: The core of your mortgage payment.
Property Taxes: Essential for local services (estimated for NJ).
Homeowners Insurance: Protecting your investment.
PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance): Usually required if your down payment is less than 20%.
While rent is a 100% expense that goes to your landlord, a mortgage payment acts as a forced savings plan.
Equity Building: A portion of every $3,000 payment goes toward your principal balance, building your net worth.
Tax Advantages: You may be eligible for tax benefits that renters don't receive.
Fixed Costs: While rents tend to increase by 2–4% annually, a fixed-rate mortgage keeps your principal and interest the same for 30 years.
Get a personalized mortgage breakdown and see what kinds of programs that can help 1st time buyers.