This is my first time...

Putting myself on a budget so I can save money for the down payment / closing costs and other expenses involved in purchasing a home.  Setting a goal of at least 20% down.  Some Buyers who don't have a 20 percent down payment are finding it harder and harder to buy a home.

buyers: Hints for Home Buyers!

buyers: Simply..Get a move on !

Sidetracked Buyers? 

This is my first time...  

Doing my research to help me figure out some reasons why I should buy and what are the benefits:  1) Tax write off    2) Property Appreciation   3) Mortgage Interest Deductions  4) Pride of Ownership

Why look for a new home now? 

buyers: Buyers: Exactly what is it saying or what's buzzing? 

This is my first time...

Working with a loan officer to help me get Pre-Approved and letting me know how much buying power I have.  I take time to understand what a mortgage is: A mortgage is a form of secured loan. If you wish to buy a house, and cannot pay in cash (that's almost all of us), you will need to apply for a loan for the balance between your cash deposit and the price of the property.

Other options are down payment assistance program: see Nehemiah Program ~ helps make dream of homeownership come true for many

Buying a home made easier

This is my first time...

Hiring a buyer's agent.  I had to understand the possible conflicts that can happen when I don't get my buyer's agent and rely on the listing agent to represent both seller and me. The best way to avoid this conflict is to find an agent willing to work with me as a Buyer's Representative.  Be nice to your agent and appreciate their advice.  A good agent will work hard for you.

This is my first time...

After figuring out the type of home I want, my next step is to get out there and go view homes, go to Open Houses and use the list of home my agent give to me.  Going house hunting and viewing all these beautiful homes. Learning the most effective questions to ask: 1) What are the defects of the house? 2) What are the incentives the seller is offering with the house?  3) What are the fixtures that stay with the house...  4) Find out everything you can about the property - ask questions.

In many ways this was the fun part.  Having an agent that is prepared and give you a list of available homes and checking them out and visualizing my family in this home is special.

Why look for a new home now?

buyers: What the HOA............. do you mean?

This is my first time...

Having to make such a major decision on which one of the houses I wanted for my very own - the one that I will call my primary residence for many years.  This home will be the place where I will have "home pride" and will have raise my family.  Give Protection.....Get Protection! 

buyers: Got Easement? Check it out before you buy! Buyers Beware!

This is my first time...

Making an offer.  Understanding the contract, understanding the timeframes, the terms and conditions.  Understanding what my priorities are in purchasing this home.

buyers: Buyers: "Motivated Seller"..... OK this is going to be a deal... right?

Buyers do not ....out negotiate yourself!

buyers: Inflated reports... Don't be fooled. Educate yourself.

This is my first time...

Dealing with Escrow, Title, Closing documents.   You are almost a homeowner!