First-Time Home Buyer Tips
There are many reasons to buy a house, but for first-time home buyers, the lure of homeownership can be especially powerful. Whether you’re focused on building generational wealth or creating an investment to sell when you retire, there are a few important steps to take before you can kick back and enjoy your new home. Here’s our best advice for those embarking on the journey to homeownership.
Prepare for financing
Before committing to a mortgage, be absolutely sure that you’re ready for homeownership. The average mortgage term is 15-30 years, so you’ll be in your home for a while. Make sure you’re prepared for the responsibility of owning a home before taking on a mortgage.
Get pre-approved
Preapproval is a more in-depth process than prequalification. With preapproval, the lender will actually look at your credit history and your income level to make sure you’re able to afford the mortgage. Prequalification is a much more basic process – the lender will just look at your credit score to see if you’re likely to be approved for a mortgage.
It’s important to remember that preapproval is not a guarantee that you will get the loan – but it is a good indication that you’re likely to be approved. It’s also important to remember that getting preapproved does not mean you have to go through with the purchase – you can always back out if you find a better deal.
Stay on top of your credit
It’s not a good time to open a new line of credit, like a credit card or personal loan, if you’re looking to get pre-approved for a mortgage. Applying for a mortgage is a big decision, and lenders will want to see that you’re reliable when it comes to making future payments. So if you’re thinking about taking out another loan or line of credit, or if your credit balance has increased, it’s best to wait until after you’ve closed on your new home.
Be ready for a down payment
FHA’s top priority is to help home buyers purchase their first home. This includes providing assistance with down payments. If you are a first-time home buyer, you may be eligible for state programs, tax breaks and an FHA loan.
Down payment assistance loans and grants are available to help first-time home buyers purchase a home. The minimum requirement for down payment assistance is usually 20%, but the upside of saving more is that you can avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI) on conventional loans.
Know the specifics about loans
Did you know that you have more than one option when it comes to mortgages? You can choose between a fixed-rate mortgage, an adjustable-rate mortgage, or a hybrid mortgage. Each type of mortgage has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to do your research before you decide which one is right for you.
For example, a fixed-rate mortgage offers predictable monthly payments, while an adjustable-rate mortgage may offer a lower interest rate in the beginning but could rise over time. It’s important to weigh all of your options and choose the mortgage that best suits your needs.
Qualification standards for each type of loan vary. For example, VA loans have military service requirements. Make sure you meet these standards before applying.
Learn about closing costs
Assuming you have the funds for a down payment, don’t forget that you’ll also need to cover your closing costs. Closing costs are upfront expenses that go towards your lender in order to have them arrange certain loan services.
There is no one answer to this question as closing costs vary based on a number of factors. However, you can expect to pay somewhere between 2 and 5% of the total loan amount in closing costs. Some government-backed grants and loans may be available to help cover some or all of these costs, and it’s also common for the seller to contribute towards closing costs.
Hire a real estate agent
If you’re looking for a new home, it’s important to work with a real estate agent or REALTOR®. Agents and REALTORS® know the local market and can help you find the perfect property. They’re experts in the home-buying process and can help you every step of the way.
A real estate agent is someone who can help you buy a home. It is important to remember that only a buyer’s agent will work on your behalf – the seller’s agent will not represent your interests. Make sure to choose a qualified REALTOR® or real estate agent to help you through the home buying process.
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