Getting Started
Before you start looking for a home you should ask yourself a
few questions.
Where do you want to live? Do you want to be close to schools,
shopping, or work?
What kind of house would you like (need)? Are you looking for a
particular style? How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want? Do
you want a yard?
How much house can you afford? Have you consulted a Realtor or
mortgage lender to determine the size of the mortgage you would
qualify for?
Here are a few tips to help you get organized:
Pull a
credit report on yourself and make sure the information is
accurate. If you find any errors take steps to correct them
immediately.
Browse
through real estate advertisements in the newspaper and Home
magazines. This will give you a good feel for the types of homes
that are on the market and what they cost.
In many
communities, Realtors may have television programs or interactive
phone systems which will allow you to find out information.
Visit
open houses on the weekend. It doesn't cost anything to look, and
looking at a few different homes might give you some ideas for
things you'd like in a house but haven't considered.
Start
saving money - you'll need to have cash on hand for a down
payment and closing costs.
Don't
incur any additional debt. Pay down your credit cards - and don't
apply for any new ones. Don't make any major purchases on credit
- buy the furniture or car later.
Contact a
Realtor. Your Realtor can help you determine how much you can
afford, and they can provide you with information on homes that
may interest you. The Realtor will also help you complete all of
the necessary forms when it comes time to make an offer.