Q: What is the best way to begin a home search?
A: The best way to begin the search for a new home is to first call a bank to be sure that you are (1) Qualified to obtain a mortgage and (2) if you are in fact qualified, see how much you are qualified for.
This is a much more productive approach as you won't be looking at homes that are over your price limit.
Q: If I pay $1000/per month in rent, doesn't that mean that I can automatically qualify for a mortgage with the same payment?
A: No. There are several factors that are used in qualifying you for a home mortgage.
Employment history
Credit score
Debt-to-income ratio
Availability of down payment
Cash resources
Q: Is it ok to make a large purchase while I'm in the mortgage application process ?
A: NO! Large purchases such as an auto or recreational vehicle will throw off your debt-to-income ratio and may disqualify you from obtaining a mortgage. Lenders monitor your spending pattern all the way to the closing table.
Q: If I see a home I like, should I just call the Realtor whose name is on the sign?
A: Not necessarily. The Realtor who is on the sign is working for the seller. Although they have to be honest and cordial to you, they have no fiduciary responsibilities to you. It's in your best interest to research Realtors and find one that will represent you as a buyer with your best interests in mind. Realtors who participate in the Multiple Listing Service can show you any home that is listed on the market. Using the same Realtor for the duration of your search will give you the best results.
A: The best way to begin the search for a new home is to first call a bank to be sure that you are (1) Qualified to obtain a mortgage and (2) if you are in fact qualified, see how much you are qualified for.
This is a much more productive approach as you won't be looking at homes that are over your price limit.
Q: If I pay $1000/per month in rent, doesn't that mean that I can automatically qualify for a mortgage with the same payment?
A: No. There are several factors that are used in qualifying you for a home mortgage.
Employment history
Credit score
Debt-to-income ratio
Availability of down payment
Cash resources
Q: Is it ok to make a large purchase while I'm in the mortgage application process ?
A: NO! Large purchases such as an auto or recreational vehicle will throw off your debt-to-income ratio and may disqualify you from obtaining a mortgage. Lenders monitor your spending pattern all the way to the closing table.
Q: If I see a home I like, should I just call the Realtor whose name is on the sign?
A: Not necessarily. The Realtor who is on the sign is working for the seller. Although they have to be honest and cordial to you, they have no fiduciary responsibilities to you. It's in your best interest to research Realtors and find one that will represent you as a buyer with your best interests in mind. Realtors who participate in the Multiple Listing Service can show you any home that is listed on the market. Using the same Realtor for the duration of your search will give you the best results.
