My wife and I are first-time homebuyers starting to seriously look. Here's what I've learned about the true upfront costs that most first-time buyer guides understate.

Down payment (20% of $350k purchase price): $70,000. This avoids PMI, which runs $100-200/month until you reach 20% equity.

Closing costs: typically 2-5% of the purchase price. On $350k, that's $7,000 to $17,500. Includes origination fees, title insurance, appraisal, attorney fees in some states, and prepaid property taxes and insurance escrow.

Moving costs, immediate repairs, and 'I didn't realize this house needed X': budget another $5,000-10,000 realistically, especially if the home inspection reveals deferred maintenance.

Total needed to buy that $350k house without being financially stressed: approximately $85,000-100,000. This is why 'save a down payment' advice understates the actual target.