Know This If You Are Buying a Home for the First Time

If you are buying a home for the first time. It is imperative to know several important aspects of the process. The glossary of loan terms is one thing that you should familiarize yourself with. However here are the 5 areas that can be critical. Being aware of these will help you avoid costly mistakes.

The Loan Programs are fewer than just a few years ago, however they are financially more sound. Plan to have at least 3.5% for FHA. It can be gifted from a family or family-type member. Non-Profit agencies may provide gift funds. Generally 10-20% is preferred. A 20% down payment will avoid mortgage insurance which can be .75% of the loan amount monthly.

Pre-qualification is the first step to getting ready to make an offer. Three financial areas are considered in this important evaluation. The income, assets, and your credit will be evaluated for affordability and credit behavior. This process also has to do with determining how much house you can buy based on monthly payment. This may include taxes, insurance and possibly the monthly mortgage insurance. Ideally you want to stay around 25% of your income as a payment. You can still qualify between 26-50% or more, however be careful to respect your overall household budget. Credit scores of 700 or higher will allow for the best rates. Assets will be verified to at least cover necessary down and closing costs. Two or more months of payments may be required in assets as reserves.

The Good Faith Estimate is considered the sticker price of doing your home loan. The lender fees, Title and Escrow fees, and possibly prepaid tax and insurance, if impound account is used, will be detailed on this form. It also will illustrate the rate, monthly payment and loan program used. Be sure to ask for this if not offered up front. It will be your cost guide going forward throughout the process.

The Process is facilitated by your realtor and home loan consultant. Starting with the prequalification for your target price range, you then are ready to make an offer after working with your local realtor for appropriate homes in your range and features you desire. It is normal to ask for the Seller to pay 3-6% of the closing costs. Next, your offer gets accepted by the seller! Now the work begins with home inspection, appraisal, formal loan approval and finalizing conditions from the underwriter.

Once conditions are met in underwriting, it is time to order your loan documents. Loan documents consist of the note, the deed of trust, and all disclosures required by law. After signing your documents in title or with a mobile notary, it typically takes 24-48 hrs to fund the loan. After funding and recording with the county, the home loan process is complete and the house is yours to move into!

To sum it up, good communication and experienced professionals will help make the overall transaction smoother. Choose carefully in the beginning who you want to work with. Cathy Acosta of Mission Hills Mortgage Bankers says, I love first time home buyers as I am a teacher at heart and can empathize with their inexperience. It is important to not assume buyers know or understand the loan process fully. Seek people you trust and are recommended. Learn as much as you can and most importantly take the initiative.