EL PASO, Texas -- Cheryl Montenegro works with home buyers on a daily basis as a mortgage consultant.

"I think everyone is taking a hit in the number of loans we are doing, because the lenders out there are being a little more tight on their guidelines," said Montenegro.

As a result, it is more difficult to get a loan, and certain types of loans are not available anymore.

"When they look at buying a home, they need to understand that coming in they are not going to be able to get into a home with no money down," Montenegro told KFOX.

But she said tons of people in El Paso get qualified every day.

"There are still a lot of loans out there, lenders are still offering great rates, and loans are not a problem getting them done," said said.

The key is to have good credit, and plan ahead.

"Lets look at there credit now, and find out, do they have any bumps in the road, do they have little issues they need to deal with now, before they actually get to the point of finding a home," said Montenegro.

Montenegro adds that you should expect to put at least three to five percent down on a conventional loan, and make sure you have enough money in your pocket for closing costs.