Homebuyer's Guide
Your First Home

Buying a home is one of the most important personal and financial decisions you'll ever make. We're also here to answer your questions along the way. We want your first real estate experience to be both hassle-free and rewarding.

Knowledge Is Power ... Accurate Information Is Essential

Before you start looking for a home, become an educated consumer. Knowledge is power and misinformation gets in your way. First, learn about the process and requirements for buying a home. Common misconceptions include ? renting is always cheaper than buying ? you have to be a Permanent Resident of the United States to buy a home ? and you have to have a huge down payment to qualify for a mortgage.

Here are the facts. You only need a work permit to buy a house. And in some cases, the starter costs of renting may be about the same as a house down payment. As you start your search to find a home, keep informed. Talk with people who've gone through the home-buying process ... attend home-buying seminars

Choosing Your Real Estate Professional

Deciding to find and buy a home is one of the most important decisions of your life. It combines your personal hopes and dreams with wanting what's best for you and your family. It means making changes. That's why it's in your best interest to choose an experienced real estate agent who listens to and understands your needs, and works in the area where you want to live. What should you expect in your first meeting with a real estate agent? A referall city realty agent typically will talk to you about the neighborhood where you want to live, home prices, schools, transportation, and the surrounding commercial and residential areas. Before you find a home, your agent can also assist you in talking with a mortgage representative about getting a "mortgage pre-approval". It's helpful to get pre-approved before you find a home so you'll know how much money you have to spend. You also can calculate how much you can afford in monthly payments.