First-Time Home Buyer Loans in Kearney & Across Nebraska

Based in Kearney. Serving All of Nebraska!

Buying your first home is one of the biggest decisions you'll ever make, and it doesn't have to feel overwhelming.


At Level Up Mortgage, Sally Bernard and her team guide first-time homebuyers across Kearney and Central Nebraska through every step of the mortgage process with honest advice, clear explanations, and personal support from start to closing.

Nebraska First-Time Homebuyer Loan Programs

FHA Loans – Low Down Payment, Flexible Credit

FHA loans are one of the most popular choices for first-time buyers in Nebraska because they require as little as 3.5% down and accept credit scores starting at 580. If you have limited savings or your credit history isn't perfect, an FHA loan may be the right path to getting into your first home in Central Nebraska.

USDA Loans – Zero Down Payment for Rural Nebraska

If you're buying in Central Nebraska communities, you may qualify for a USDA loan, which requires absolutely no down payment. This government-backed program is designed for buyers in eligible rural and suburban areas, and much of our region qualifies. It's one of the most powerful tools available to first-time buyers who want to own a home without draining their savings.

Conventional Home Loans – For Buyers with Stronger Credit

If you have a solid credit score and steady income, a conventional loan with as little as 3% down may offer better long-term value than a government-backed program. We'll compare your options honestly, including total costs, mortgage insurance requirements, and monthly payments, so you can choose the loan that fits your life and your budget.

What We Help First-Time Buyers With

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Understanding Your Loan Options

We explain FHA, USDA, VA, and conventional loans in plain language so you can make the right choice for your situation.

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Getting Pre-Approved Quickly

Know exactly how much home you can afford before you start shopping. We make the pre-approval process fast and stress-free.

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Down Payment Assistance Programs

Nebraska offers programs that help cover your down payment and closing costs. We'll help you find every dollar you qualify for.

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Credit Score Guidance

Not sure if your credit is ready? We'll review where you stand and give you practical steps to strengthen your application.

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Step-by-Step Process Support

From your first question to the day you get your keys, Sally Bernard and her team are with you every step of the way.

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Local Nebraska Market Knowledge

We know the Kearney and Central Nebraska housing market inside and out. Real local guidance, not a corporate script.

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Our Home Loan Expertise

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$327 Million

Home loans guided and closed

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25+ Years

Helping Nebraska individuals and families

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1000s

Of clients helped throughout the state

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Locally Owned

Locally owned & operated in Kearney

01

Start the Conversation

Reach out to Sally with no pressure and no obligation. We'll talk about your goals, your timeline, and whether now is the right time to move forward.

02

Get Pre-Approved

We'll review your income, credit, and finances to get you officially pre-approved. This shows sellers you're a serious buyer and tells you exactly how much you can spend.

03

Find Your Home & Make an Offer

With your pre-approval in hand, work with your real estate agent to find the right home. When you're ready to make an offer, we're standing by to answer any financing questions.

04

Close and Get Your Keys

We manage the mortgage process from application through closing so there are no surprises. On closing day, you sign the papers, get your keys, and officially become a homeowner.

How the First-Time Homebuyer Process Works

We guide you through every step so buying your first home in Nebraska feels manageable, not overwhelming. Here's what to expect when you work with Level Up Mortgage.

First-Time Homebuyer FAQs

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Buying your first home in Nebraska comes with a lot of questions, and that's completely normal. Here are the questions Sally hears most often from first-time buyers in Kearney and Central Nebraska.

  • How much do I need for a down payment as a first-time homebuyer in Nebraska?

    It depends on the loan type. FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down. USDA loans, which cover many areas around Kearney -- require zero down payment. Conventional loans can go as low as 3% down for qualified buyers. Nebraska also has down payment assistance programs through NIFA (Nebraska Investment Finance Authority) that can help cover some or all of your down payment. Contact Sally to find out which programs you qualify for.

  • What credit score do I need to buy my first home?

    FHA loans accept credit scores as low as 580 with a 3.5% down payment. USDA and conventional loans typically require a 620 or higher. Even if your score isn't there yet, don't be discouraged, Level Up Mortgage will review your credit with you and give you a clear action plan to get mortgage-ready.

  • What is mortgage pre-approval and why do I need it?

    Pre-approval is a verified review of your finances, income, credit, and debts, that tells you exactly how much home you can afford and shows sellers that you're a serious buyer. In today's Nebraska market, most sellers won't consider an offer without one. It's one of the first steps we recommend, and the process is faster than most people expect.

  • What is the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?

    Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on information you self-report. Pre-approval is a verified review where we actually pull your credit and confirm your income and assets. Pre-approval carries much more weight with sellers and gives you a more accurate picture of what you can borrow.

  • Are there first-time homebuyer programs in Nebraska?

    Yes. Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) offers several programs specifically for first-time buyers, including the First Home Program and the Homebuyer Assistance Program. These programs can provide below-market interest rates and down payment or closing cost assistance. Sally will help you understand which programs you're eligible for and how to combine them with the right loan type.

  • How long does the mortgage process take for a first-time buyer?

    From application to closing, the process typically takes 30 to 45 days. USDA loans can take a bit longer, sometimes 45 to 60 days, because they require USDA final approval. Sally will give you a realistic timeline based on your specific loan type and keep you informed at every stage so there are no surprises.

  • Do I need to use a real estate agent to buy a home?

    While it's not required, using a local real estate agent is strongly recommended, especially for first-time buyers. Your agent represents your interests in negotiations and helps you navigate the offer process. Level Up Mortgage works alongside your agent as a team to make the transaction as smooth as possible.

  • Why should I use a local mortgage lender in Kearney instead of an online lender?

    When you work with Level Up Mortgage, you work directly with Sally Bernard, a real local in Kearney who knows the local market, the local real estate community, and the programs specific to Nebraska buyers. You get a direct phone number, real answers, and a loan officer who is invested in your success. Online lenders can't offer the personal relationship that makes the difference when challenges come up during the process.

Ready to Buy Your First Home in Nebraska?

Whether you're ready to start the application today or just want to ask a few questions first, Sally is here to help.


There's no pressure, no obligation, just honest answers from a local mortgage advisor who knows your neighborhood.