How do I get started in purchasing a home? If I were personally look for a home today...I would do the following things before contacting a real estate professional:
Before I would pick up magazines and start looking at houses regardless of my income, my employment record regardless of how much cash I am working with..
I would not assume anything..because I know guidelines have changed..
First things first, I would contact a mortgage professional that I trust and would find out what I qualify for in order to buy a home.
Because if I don't qualify..I'm not buying!
I would gather docs because I know you will need them...
I would let my employer know I are buying a house and to expect a letter or phone call of employment verification. It may hold true for a landlord as well so prepare to discuss this with your landlord.
If you are in a lease read through your lease agreement and your lease there may be a chance you can break your lease if you purchase a home. If it is not clearly stated in your documents go to your landlord orproperty managerand ask what are the consequences in breaking the lease now may be the time to buy a home but it may also prove it's not!
One thing I believe..you have a better chance in buying a homeif you are prepared..if you do some homework in advance..and if you keep control in what is going on around you! Don't be the buyer who said they did it to me!
That means trust the professional you are working with, plan on cooperation and make sure and make good sound decisions...understand the documents...read the fine print but most of all pay attention to the numbers...after all its You and only you paying for that mortgage!
Disclaimer: ActiveRain Corp. does not necessarily endorse the real estate agents, loan officers and brokers listed on this site. These real estate profiles, blogs and blog entries are provided here as a courtesy to our visitors to help them make an informed decision when buying or selling a house. ActiveRain Corp. takes no responsibility for the content in these profiles, that are written by the members of this community.