ARE YOU READY TO BUY A HOME?

Before you decide to buy a home, make sure you are ready. The best thing you can do is to educate yourself in all aspects of the house hunt, keep a clear head, and buy a house that fits your needs.

ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS

  • Is my income and job steady and reliable?
  • Am I in control of my spending?
  • Do I handle my finances responsibly, with minimal credit card debt?
  • Do I have a written budget that shows me where my money goes?
  • Do I have the money for closing costs, a substantial downpayment, and moving costs?

  • Do I understand the costs of home ownership and do I have enough money left over after paying the mortgage, car payments, household bills, credit cards, student loans, and other expenses to cover the other costs associated with home ownership, such as insurance, maintenance, repairs, homeowners association dues, larger utility bills, lawn mowing services or a lawn mower, snow plowing services, etc.   

If you answer YES to all of the points above, and would like more information on the costs involved in buying a home proceed to Step 2: Associated Costs

If you are unsure of any of the points above, work on the trouble areas until you are completely comfortable that you can actually afford a house and all the other expenses in your life.