Tips for First-Time Home Buyers:
1. Be picky, but don't be unrealistic. The right home for your is a trade-off between your needs and wants and how much you can afford to pay for the home.
2. Do your homework before you start looking. Decide specifically what features you want in a home and community and which are important to you.
3. Get your finances in order. Review your credit report and be sure you have enough money to cover your down payment and your closing costs.
4. Don't wait to get a loan. Talk to a lender and get pre-qualified for a mortgage before you start looking.
5. Think long-term. Are you looking for a starter house with the idea of moving up in a few years or do you hope to stay in this home longer? Remember time goes by quickly. This decision may dictate what type of home you'll buy as well as type of mortgage terms that suit you best now and in the long term.
