First Time Home Buyers

Buying a home is an exciting time in ones life. Before you start looking for your new home, we recommend that you do the following:

Find a loan program and/or financial institution that meet your needs and get pre-qualified. This will allow you time to straighten out any errors on your credit report and move quickly when you find a home you like.
A reputable local lender is vital to the success of your transaction. Check out our list of preferred partners for information on lenders that have worked very well with us in the past.
Determine a monthly budget for your new purchase, including down payment and monthly payment. (Don't forget about escrow for property taxes and insurance coverage. Your lender will help guide you through this process.)
Determine what neighborhood or area of town best matches your needs--school zones, distance to work and family, etc.
Make a list of any important features you want your new home to have--you may even want to identify the features you don't want it to have!

Lender Fees: Charges for loan processing, underwriting, preparation and establishing an escrow account.
Third-Party Fees: Charges for insurance, title search, and inspections.
Government Fees: Deed recording and state & local mortgage taxes.
Escrow and Interest Fees: Homeowner's insurance, loan interest, real estate taxes and sometimes private mortgage insurance.
Title Insurance Fees: Depend on the sales price of the home.
FHA and VA Loans: Can have additional fees and costs.
Home Inspection Fees: They can include pest, radon, septic/sewer, etc.
Miscellaneous Costs: Can accrue from correcting problems noticed during the home inspection(s).