Buying a home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. Homeownership has great benefits. Homeownership also comes with certain responsibilities.

Are you thinking about homeownership? Investigate your current situation and determine if:

• You have a continuing and reliable source of income prior to applying for the loan.
• You have a credit history that shows you’re ready for homeownership.
• Your total debt is manageable and you can afford to take on the costs associated with homeownership.
• You have money saved for a down payment and closing costs.

When you fully understand your current situation, it’s important to look at the pros and cons of homeownership to make the best decision for you and your family.

Benefits of Home Ownership

Homeownership has many advantages – both financial and personal. But buying a home is an important decision.

• Tax Savings
  You may earn significant tax savings because you can deduct mortgage interest and property taxes from your federal income tax and many states’ income tax if you itemize your deductions.
• Stable Monthly Housing Expense
  Your monthly housing expense can remain the same for the life of your mortgage, depending on the type of loan you choose.
• Equity
  Building equity in your home over the life of your loan allows you to save for future goals like your child’s education or your retirement.

Homeownership is not right for everyone. Consider the differences in owning a home and renting.

Buying a home is an exciting time in one's life. Making the smart move of choosing a REALTOR® is your first step to ensuring that your new home and community meets your needs. Our services and experience range from financial aid to helping you find the home that best suits you and your family. For your convenience, we also provide listings by email. We pride ourselves on repeat business and hope you'll come to understand why.

How We Can Help
Before you start looking
Closing Costs

As Your Agent, We Will:

• Assure that you see all the properties in the area that meet your criteria.
• Guide you through the entire home buying process, from finding homes to look at, to getting the best financing.
• Make sure you don't pay too much for your new home and help you avoid costly mistakes.
• Answer all of your questions about the local market area, including schools, neighborhoods, the local economy, and more.

Before You Start Looking For Your New Home:

• Check your credit rating. Straighten out any errors before its too late.
• Determine a comfortable monthly budget for your new purchase, including down payment and monthly payment.
• Find a loan program that meets your needs and get pre-qualified (preferably pre-approved).
• Choose a REALTOR® that you trust and who understands your needs.
• Determine what neighborhood best matches your needs.
• Identify important features you need your new home to have.

Closing Costs to Expect:

• Lender fees include charges for loan processing, underwriting, preparation and establishing an escrow account.
• Third-party fees include charges for insurance, title search, and other inspections such as termites.
• Government fees include deed recording and state & local mortgage taxes.
• Escrow and interest fees include homeowner's insurance, loan interest, real estate taxes, and occasionally private mortgage insurance.

Find out how much your closing costs could be.

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