Tag Archives: first-time buyers

Soothing Tips for Anxious First-Time Home Buyers

Two people standing next to a door mat that reads "First Time Buyer."

A lot of practical yet stressful work needs to be done when buying a home- such as paperwork, dealing with banks, getting a mortgage approval, etc. As a result, it is easy to forget that home buying is also a significant emotional labor. There can be fear and doubt, which is expected because buying is a significant financial decision. It is also exciting and symbolic of a new beginning in someone’s life. This is especially true for people who are buying their first home.

Don’t let nerves stop you from fulfilling your goal of buying your dream home! Read on for soothing tips for anxious first-time home buyers.

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Evaluating your Readiness to Buy a Home

Is it time to purchase your first home?  Owning your own home may offer many advantages including building equity, qualifying for tax deductions, and having a place to call your own. It also requires a level of financial and emotional readiness.  Evaluating your position in each of the following categories can help guide you as you make this important decision.

Monthly Finances

Purchasing a home is a big financial decision. In addition to making mortgage payments you also have to factor in additional costs such as taxes, homeowner’s insurance, homeowner’s association fees, city assessments, and household repairs. Mortgage companies use a debt to income ratio (DTI) to determine loan eligibility.

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How Much Personal Information Do You Need to Reveal When Buying a Home?

Close up of domestic personal files in expanding pocket folders

During the home buying process, you’ll be working with a range of professionals, including a real estate agent, loan officer, home inspector, appraiser, and a lawyer or representative from a title company. And while you may need to divulge some very personal information, like your annual income and debt history, not all of these people need to know the intricate details of your life.

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