10 Steps to Prepare for Homeownership

10 Steps to Prepare for Homeownership

1. Decide how much home you can afford. Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between two and three times your gross income.
2. Develop a wish list of what you'd like your home to have. Then prioritize the features on your list.
3. Select three or four neighborhoods you'd like to live in. Consider items such as schools, recreational facilities, area expansion plans, and safety.
4. Determine if you have enough saved to cover your downpayment and closing costs. Closing costs, including taxes, attorney's fee, and transfer fees average between 2 percent and 7 percent of the home price.
5. Get your credit in order. Obtain a copy of your credit report.
6. Determine how large a mortgage you can qualify for. Also explore different loans options and decide what's best for you.
7. Organize all the documentation a lender will need to preapprove you for a loan.
8. Do research to determine if you qualify for any special mortgage or downpayment-assistance programs.
9. Calculate the costs of homeownership, including property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and association fees, if applicable.
10. Find an experienced REALTOR? who can help you through the process.

Reprinted from REALTOR? Magazine Online by permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS? Copyright 2005. All rights reserved.  

Thinking about buying or selling real estate in the Greater Pine Island communities of Bokeelia, Pineland, Pine Island Center, St James City and Matlacha?  Sellers ~ call "Pine Island Pam" for an appointment and FREE comparative market analysis (CMA).  Buyers ~ call for a FREE Listingbook acount and search the MLS like an agent.  Call (239) 699-6567 or e-mail Pam@PineIslandPam.com.  Check out my website at PineIslandPam.com.
                           


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