One of the most exciting times of your life is when you have decided to buy your first home. You will be all caught up in the excitement of looking for your new home and planning for your future. Don't allow that excitement to get you in over your head! Over the coming months we will look at some of the questions you need to ask and answer before you begin shopping for a home.

What are the most important things to consider before I buy?

One of the most important considerations are your financial limits. Below is a list of financial realities to think about.

How much cash will you be able to come up with for a down payment?

Will you have the additional cash necessary to pay the closing costs?

What is your monthly income, before and after taxes?

Apart from the money for a down payment, how much money have you saved?

How much debt do you have? (include credit cards, student loans and/or car loans)

How much do you spend each month paying off your debts?

How long have you been in your current job?

What does your credit history look like?

What are the costs of homes in the area(s) that you are thinking about living in?

How much are average property taxes in the area?

What are current interest rates?

How much does homeowner's insurance cost for homes of the general size and location that interest you?

As your Realtor I will be able to help you work through this process and make your dream of owning your first home a reality!

Next month we'll look at how much you can afford to spend on your new home.