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Before Looking
Before you actively look at homes to buy, it's necessary to know how much you can qualify for. Use mortgage calculators to determine how much you can buy with your down payment and closing cost money and what your monthly payments will be.
Know Your...
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Down Payment
Most lenders require at least 10% of the purchase price, though new programs are available for 3%-5% down. 100% financing can be found, but you credit must be excellant and PMI insurance will be required.
Loan Origination Fee
A lender's fee for establ
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Don't Jeopardize Your Loan
Taking out a another loan, buying a car, or making large credit card charges before you close can jeopardize your loan commitment. Lenders run a second credit check prior to closing to check for new charges.
Time to Close
Closing at the...
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Tax Changes and Effects
The new capital gains law allows homeowners to avoid paying taxes on the first $500,000 of profit if they are married or on the first $250,000 if they are single.
You must have lived in the home as your primary residence for two of the last five...
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First Time Buyer
Condominiums are a good way to get into the housing market if you can't afford to buy a house or prefer this type of lifestyle. Condos are also great if you don't want to spend a lot of time doing yard work or maintenance.
One important thing to remember...
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Contract Knowledge
Buying a home, you are entering into a legally binding contract that must be clearly understood both in terms of rights and obligations.
Today's real estate contracts are quite lengthy.
Agents are trained to understand and explain the contract along wi
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