Short answer: To buy your first home on Staten Island: get pre-approved, set a budget that includes taxes and monthly charges, choose an agent and an attorney, tour and make an offer, then complete the contract, inspection, appraisal and mortgage before closing. Down payment help is available through NYC’s HomeFirst program.
Step by step
- Check your credit and savings
Plan for the down payment and closing costs, plus a cushion for moving and repairs.
- Get pre-approved
A lender reviews your income, assets and credit and tells you how much you can borrow. Sellers expect a pre-approval letter with your offer.
- Choose your agent and attorney
In New York, both buyer and seller use an attorney to handle the contract. Daniel can recommend local attorneys.
- Tour homes and make an offer
Daniel pulls recent sales so your offer is grounded in what similar homes sold for.
- Inspection and contract
The home inspection usually happens before contract signing. At signing you’ll typically put down a deposit, often 10%, held in escrow.
- Appraisal and mortgage commitment
The lender appraises the home and issues your final loan approval.
- Closing
Final walk-through, sign the documents, get your keys.
Down payment help: NYC HomeFirst
NYC’s Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) runs the HomeFirst Down Payment Assistance Program for qualified first-time buyers. It has offered as much as $100,000 toward a down payment or closing costs, with income limits, a homebuyer education course and a requirement to live in the home. Check HPD’s website for current terms.
Budget for closing costs
On top of the down payment, New York buyers pay mortgage recording tax (unless buying a co-op), title insurance, attorney fees and lender fees. Homes at $1 million and up also carry the mansion tax. Use the closing cost calculator to estimate yours.
Estimate your monthly payment
An estimate only. Your lender will give you exact figures with your pre-approval.
Start with a no-pressure conversation
Many of Daniel’s clients are first-time buyers, and they describe him as patient, honest and always willing to explain. Tell him what you’re looking for and he’ll map out your next steps.
Common questions
How much do I need to buy my first home?
It depends on the loan and the property. Some loans allow 3–3.5% down; co-ops often need 10–20% or more. Add closing costs and a cushion.
Do I need a real estate attorney in New York?
Yes. In New York, buyers and sellers each use an attorney to negotiate the contract and handle the closing.
Who pays the buyer’s agent?
Buyers now sign a written agreement with their agent that explains compensation. It’s negotiable, and often paid by the seller. Daniel will walk you through it.
Updated October 2026 by Daniel Gambino, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson, Coldwell Banker Advantage. General information, not legal or tax advice.