Timely Tips for Buying a Home
Regardless of market conditions, a home is not only a place to live, but it is also a financial asset and a plan for the future. But is it the right time for you to buy? From ForeclosedHomes.com, an online resource for finding foreclosed homes and foreclosure information on the Web, here are a few general rules to consider: -Steady employment. It's essential to have a reliable source of income. -A solid credit score. A bad credit score will increase mortgage interest rates. Potential homeowners should clean up their credit report and ensure that long-term debts are paid before considering homeownership. And when selecting a house, a potential buyer should determine the qualities that best suit his or her situation. -An affordable price. The total cost of a home should generally be less than 2.5 years' pay. Ensure that the down payment and monthly mortgage payments are manageable. -Location, location, location. Where a home is located can change its value dramatically. Being in a district with good schools, for example, is important- both for raising the family and for resale value. Also consider what's going on in the community. Are peace and quiet high priorities, for example? Then perhaps a rural or suburban environment would work best. By contrast, if a desire for high culture and a fast lifestyle is a factor, then an urban setting might be preferred. - Size matters. Is the home big enough, and will it allow for future growth? Finally, when buying the house... -Get some help from the pros. Using a real estate agent and a home inspector is important in selecting a good home and making an appropriate bid. -Make the right mortgage move. When selecting a mortgage, determine whether it's better to pay additional points: One portion of the interest paid at closing may lead to greater savings down the road. If the plan is to stay around for a while (i.e., more than five years), experts say it's usually better to take the points. Follow these tips and make your home-owning dream a reality. Buying a home is truly a life milestone, and it can be a big step toward financial security. Finding a good house in a nice neighborhood could be the key to making a home investment pay off, reminds ForeclosedHomes.com. |
Today's Top Stories |