Home Buying Goals in 2019

If you have decided that 2019 will be the year for you to buy a home in Gainesville, we’ve prepared this list of  you can set for 2019.  Think of this as four New Year resolutions to help you plan, prepare and purchase your new home in Gainesville. We want to be your Gainesville Realtor and help YOU become a new homeowner in 2019.

1. Pinch Those Pennies
   Saving for a down payment on a new home is one of the most important parts of the home-buying process. It’s important to plan out your savings now if your goal is to purchase a new home this year. The median sales price of a home in the U.S. is now $235,000, and the median sales price for the Gainesville-Alachua County MLS is $233,000 as of November 2018. Be thinking of the amount you will need to save for your down payment & closing costs. We can talk about the type of loan you will want and what amount would be a down payment percentage for the loan type you select. Let’s talk about YOUR plans!
2. Check Your Credit
   Make sure there are no surprises on your credit report. One of the first things any mortgage lender will do is check your credit scores and history to determine your debt-to-income ratio. The lender will discuss your finances to determine how much of a mortgage loan you qualify for. According to credit-rating company Equifax, a score of 690 or higher is considered “good.” If your credit needs clean-up, start working on it now so that your score is up to par before you start your loan pre-qualification process. If you are wanting to select a local lender, give us a call and we can talk about local mortgage lenders.
3. Lock in Your Pre-Approval
   Sitting down with a mortgage lender now can save you time later. Securing pre-approval on a mortgage will help you know what price range is best for your budget and lifestyle. Knowing your price range give you confidence in your home buying process. Plus, when you’re ready many lenders can offer you a lock in an interest rate for 90 days.  If you have any questions about your home buying process just give us a call. We are here to help you.  
   
4. Hold Off Hefty Purchases
   Steady financial planning is best. Keep in mind that any big purchases like a new car or a family vacation before buying a house can affect your debt-to-income ratio  and credit reporting information. Be frugal with adding to debt during your home buying process.

Planning and preparation for your home buying in Gainesville is one of the most important things in you & your family’s life.  You may have so many questions, and the internet is full of answers, but please know that we are here to help without you looking for answers.  If being a homeowner in 2019 is your goal, let us earn your trust and help your reach that goal.

Let’s Talk About Gainesville Real Estate!

**Originally Posted at GainesvilleRealEstateTalk