When purchasing your first home, there are several hurdles you may encounter. Here are 10 of the biggest hurdles that many first-time homebuyers face:

1. Saving for a Down Payment: Coming up with a substantial down payment can be challenging, especially considering rising home prices and the need for a sizable percentage of the purchase price.

2. Qualifying for a Mortgage: Meeting the strict criteria set by lenders to qualify for a mortgage, including a good credit score, stable employment, and a reasonable debt-to-income ratio, can be difficult for some first-time buyers.

3. Limited Inventory: Finding a suitable home within your budget can be challenging due to limited inventory in certain areas or a competitive housing market.

4. Affordability: Rising home prices and increasing interest rates can make homeownership less affordable for first-time buyers, especially in high-demand areas.

5. Closing Costs: Buyers must pay closing costs, which can include fees for home inspections, appraisals, title searches, loan origination, and more. These costs can add up and be a significant hurdle for first-time buyers.

6. Understanding the Homebuying Process: Navigating the complexities of the homebuying process, including understanding contracts, negotiating offers, and completing paperwork, can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with the process.

7. Lack of Knowledge: Many first-time buyers may lack knowledge about the real estate market, financing options, and the overall homebuying process. This can make it difficult to make informed decisions.

8. Maintenance and Upkeep Costs: Owning a home comes with ongoing maintenance and upkeep expenses. First-time buyers may not be prepared for the additional costs beyond the mortgage payment.

9. Student Loan Debt: For many first-time buyers, significant student loan debt can make it challenging to qualify for a mortgage or manage additional financial obligations.

10. Emotional Decision-Making: Buying a home is often an emotional process, and first-time buyers may struggle with balancing their emotions and making rational decisions based on their financial situation.

While these hurdles may seem daunting, it's essential to be well-prepared, do thorough research, and seek guidance from professionals such as real estate agents and mortgage lenders to navigate the process successfully.