Scott Delzer
June 3, 2014
• 2 Minute Read
You’ve decided that it’s time to start looking for a home of your very own, but the thought of taking that next step scares you. We’ve compiled a few helpful steps for you to follow to help make that home buying experience more enjoyable.
Step 1. Check your credit report. It’s a good idea to first start out by knowing about your past credit history. If you notice any problems on your credit report be sure to take care of them as soon as possible. Taking care of any problems will help save you headaches down the road when you start the loan application process.
Step 2. Put together a budget. Compile a list of expenses that you accrue on a monthly basis. Knowing this information will give you a better idea of where your funds are going. You can then take this information with you when you meet with a mortgage lender.
Step 3. Save, Save, Save. In this beginning stage of the home buying process it’s very important for you to save as much as you can. The money that you save will need to be applied towards a down payment and closing costs.
Step 4. Choose a lender for your loan. Sit down with a lender and go over the budget that you put together. Get preapproved through the lender and get exact numbers as to how much of a house you can afford. Ask them any questions you might have about the whole process of purchasing a home.
Step 5. Start your home search. Now that you’ve met with a lender and are pre-approved for a loan, you have an idea as to how much of a home you can afford. This step of the process should take some time. Make sure you are 100% confident in the home you decide on. Look over every aspect of the home and make note of any possible issues that you see. Any overlooked issues in the home can come back to haunt you after you’ve made the purchase.
Step 6. Purchase your home. Once you have made your final decision on the home and have agreed on a final purchase price it’s now time to buy the home. Before you sign anything make sure you are well aware of the mortgage process as well as finalizing any details with the seller. Having full knowledge of it all will make the process less stressful and more exciting.
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