What Every First Time Home Buyer Must Know
First time home buyers are in the dark on many basic areas of the home buying transaction. To keep from making mistakes and possibly losing money, get to know the glossary of terms used. It is imperative to understand the five areas of the buying process.
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.
Real Estate agents will want to know that your are pre-qualified. This entails a look at your income, assets and credit history. It is a prime indicator of your sales price limit, ability to repay the loan and your probability of paying back the loan. In this step, your monthly payment is determined based on the current interest rates. Your credit score will also determine the rate. A score of 700 or higher earns you the best rates. Financial experts recommend around 25% of your income as a mortgage payment. A debt ratio of 38% or higher becomes a concern with regards to affordability. Your assets will be verified to confirm down payment, closing costs are in the bank and for how long. You may need 2-6 months of payment reserves to allow a cushion depending on loan product.
You will want to know your costs of doing your home loan. The Good Faith Estimate is the disclosure for this. It will detail all the loan particulars such as interest rate, monthly payment etc. It mostly gives you the detail of fees from the lender, title and escrow, and your taxes and insurance prepaid amounts. Keep in mind initially it is an estimate just as the title implies. You should get this disclosure before you leave a lender or shortly after a phone application. It is wise to keep this form to keep everyone generally accountable. Expect reasonable differences however as factors change along the way.
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.
The Closing is what is considered drawing loan documents for signing the deed of trust, the note, and all disclosures in title. In some cases a mobile notary may be used. Finally your loan should be ready to fund and record. Now the house is yours!
Good communication and experienced professionals go a long way to making the home buying experience a great one. Be selective in who you choose to handle one of the biggest financial transactions in your life. Cathy Acosta of Mission Hills Mortgage Bankers says, I love working with First Time Home Buyers. As a teacher, I like to take the extra time to explain and answer all their questions. I can empathize with their fears and concerns about the many options available. Take time to choose your realtor and mortgage professional. Also be willing to learn about the process and take control of what you can control.
