1. Is it better for you to buy?
Renting could actually be a more expensive long term, so many families opt to buy a home, especially if you intend to stick around for awhile.
Realtor.com shares a special Rent Vs. Buy” calculator that helps you gauge when you would cross over the “breakeven horizon.” The “breakeven horizon” is the point where buying equals the cost of renting.
2. Is it financially feasible?
Typically, buying a house would involve a down payment and then paying a mortgage monthly that could last up to 30 years. The ideal down payment outlined by Zillow is 20 percent because that can give you the best overall rates, but there are some down payments that can go as low as 3 percent.
Lenders want to loan money out to financially responsible individuals, so preparing yourself financially by making sure your credit score is excellent and having money saved is the best way to get set-up for a home loan.
3. Are you personally ready?
It comes down to a gut feeling as well. Do you feel like it is the time to buy a home? Can you be ready for whatever comes your way?
Owning a home is a big commitment and before signing the dotted line, you have to be ready to take on the little things like maintaining your lawn to basic indoor upkeep. There are major repairs like roof damage and structural issues that could come along as well. All of that would be in your hands.
Despite all the challenges that could drop on your lap, owning a home is also wonderfully gratifying.
Check your credit
Before you do anything, make sure you are an ideal candidate for a home loan. Your credit report is important to lenders because it can give them a sense of your financial habits. Be sure you have a steady track record of paying all your bills on time as well. Here is a more detailed list from Realtor.com that outlines critical credit score information: http://www.realtor.com/advice/what-is-a-good-credit-score/.
Calculate your budget
Zillow has a handy calculator that potential home buyers can use to gauge their budget. A huge thing to keep in mind is just because you might be able to qualify for a higher loan, it might not be financially smart to take it. Really consider how much you want to spend as well as how much you can spend.
Find a great real estate agent
Get pre-approved by a lender
Look at homes
Make an offer
Closing on your home
Move-in!
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All measurements and all calculations of area (i.e., Sq Ft and Acreage) are approximate. Broker has represented to MetroList that Broker has a valid listing signed by seller authorizing placement in the MLS. Above information is provided by Seller and/or other sources and has not been verified by Broker. Copyright 2024 MetroList Services, Inc. The data relating to real estate for sale on this web site comes in part from the Broker Reciprocity Program of MetroList® MLS. All information has been provided by seller/other sources and has not been verified by broker. All interested persons should independently verify the accuracy of all information. Last updated .
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