Buying a home is probably the largest financial investment most individuals will make in their lifetime, but the benefits usually outweigh the challenges. Asking the right questions and doing your homework prior to buying that first home is essential.
Here are answers to first-time homebuyers’ most frequently asked questions:
1. Should I buy instead of rent?
The benefits of buying a house rather than renting a house or apartment include:
- Tax breaks
- Financial gains
- Appreciation in value
- Equity
- Capital gains
- Freedom
- Security
- A sense of pride
2. Am I ready to buy?
Ask yourself the following questions when considering whether you’re ready to buy:
- Do I have a steady job?
- Have I been steadily employed for the last two to three years?
- Is my current income reliable for the foreseeable future?
- Do I have a positive bill-paying history?
- Do I have few outstanding long-term debts, like car payments?
- Have I saved for a down payment?
- Can I afford to pay a mortgage, taxes, utilities, and insurance?
3. Does my credit score impact my ability to buy?
A credit score numerically summarizes an individual’s credit history and gives a snapshot of their financial standing to a lender. Mortgage lenders use the score to decide who receives loans and at what interest rate. The higher the score means the better the chance of getting a loan with an attractive interest rate.
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If your score is low, it is not impossible to get a loan but it will take longer. These three different companies keep credit histories: Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian. Before applying for a loan, get reports from all three companies. Fix any errors you might see in order to improve your score and put your best foot forward with lenders.
4. How much do I need for a down payment?
Saving for the down payment is the greatest obstacle for first-time homebuyers. Lenders expect between 5% to 20% for a down payment. It varies according to the lender’s requirements, and the type and length of the loan. Make a budget, set a goal, and stick with the plan. Saving and sacrificing is how most people come up with their first down payment.
5. What are the homeowner’s tax benefits?
- Typical deductions are mortgage interest and real estate taxes.
- In most cases, loan discount points and origination fees are deductible.
- Read Publication 530 titled Tax Information for Homeowners found on the IRS website.
- There are capital gains benefits, but don’t worry about that until you buy your first home.
6. What is the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?
Pre-qualification: Getting pre-qualified for a mortgage gives first-time homebuyers an indication of how much they “might” qualify to borrow. This mortgage amount is not guaranteed because no information has yet been verified. A letter from the lender may only state that you are “likely” to be approved for a mortgage.
Pre-approved: Better yet is getting pre-approved for a mortgage, which is based on a real credit score, and it also puts real estate agents and home sellers at ease. The buyer has more to offer when making a deal and in a competitive market this can be a definite plus.
7. How do I get the best mortgage?
It is time consuming to learn about the various rates and terms of mortgages. Once you find your dream home, there is not always adequate enough time to do your research. So do your homework prior to searching.
Here are a few tips:
Contact the Better Business Bureau to make sure you are working with reputable mortgage lenders.
Use a mortgage broker to help you find the best mortgage; find one through the National Association of Mortgage Brokers.
If you are a veteran, you might be eligible for VA (Veterans’ Administration) assistance. Visit the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.
Learn all about the Five Steps to Homeownership, which is sponsored by the Mortgage Bankers Association.
Additional Resources:
RELATED: Ten Key Factors When Applying for a Mortgage Loan
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