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What Should You Expect When Buying a House?

The homebuying process may seem scary, but don’t worry! We’ll guide you through it.

First, you’ll need to figure out how much house you can afford. If you’re not sure how much to budget … speak with a mortgage loan officer. They’ll help you create one. They can also explain the different types of loan options, and even get you prequalified. So you’ll know what you can afford and how much to save for a down payment, which can vary depending on the type of loan you apply for.

Next, find a trusted real estate agent. They’ll be your guide on this house hunt. Find your house and then make an offer. A bigger price tag means bigger payments, so keep your budget in mind when choosing a home. Once you’ve agreed on a price, submit a loan application with the help of your loan officer. Then it’s time to schedule your home inspection.

Now your loan officer will be your expert advisor, guiding you through the application process, credit approval, property appraisal, loan approval, and preparing for closing.

Now you’ll finally close on and sign for the home! There’s a lot of paperwork, so start practicing that signature.

You just bought a house and can start focusing on those paint colors.

Buying a house can be complicated, but it doesn’t have to be intimidating. These steps will take you from start to close to home sweet home.

calculator

Step 1: Figure Out How Much House You Can Afford

  • When deciding how much to budget, factor in items like your income, expenses, and property taxes in the area you are looking.
  • A mortgage qualification calculator can help.
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Step 2: Work with a Mortgage Loan Officer (MLO)

  • An MLO is your point person for a lender. They can help you create a budget, tell you about loan options, and walk you through the application process.
  • They can prequalify you, too, which gives you an idea of how much you may be able to afford based on your credit score and income.
  • Your MLO can also help you determine how much of a down payment you should be prepared to bring to closing. Your down payment can vary depending on the type of loan you apply for.
house on the brain

Step 3: Locate a Trusted Real Estate Agent

  • The agent will serve as your guide on the house hunt.
searching for a house

Step 4: Find Your House and Make an Offer

  • Think through what you want in a house, such as home type, size, and location.
  • When you find a home you want, make an offer – your agent can help determine a fair price based on a comparative market analysis.
  • Remember, the bigger the price tag, the bigger your payments, so always keep your budget in mind.
getting approval

Step 5: Submit a Loan Application

  • Offer accepted? Congratulations! Submit a loan application with the help of your loan officer.
  • If you want a home inspection and haven’t crossed it off your list yet, now is a good time to schedule it. There are plenty of independent inspectors who can help you.
  • As your expert adviser, your loan officer will lead you through the application process, credit approval, property appraisal, loan approval and preparing for closing.
the house is sold

Step 6: Close and Sign Final Paperwork

  • Your bank will work with a title company or attorney to prepare the mortgage note, deed, and title work required to transfer the property.
  • At last you’ll close on the house and sign all of the paperwork related to your loan.
  • Once all funds are collected and the contract is verified, you will receive the keys to your new house.

OK, there is actually one more step: make your house a home. This one is all up to you. Enjoy!

Want to learn more about the homebuying process?

Talk to a mortgage loan officer (MLO) or visit our Financial Wellness Center.

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https://themortgagereports.com/60543/average-down-payment-on-a-house-and-low-down-payment-benefits

2

https://themortgagereports.com/35800/guide-to-mortgage-closing-costs-what-average-mortgage-costs-are-and-how-to-keep-yours-low

NOTICE: This is not a commitment to lend or extend credit. Conditions and restrictions may apply. Information and offers are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to credit and collateral approval. Not all loans or products are available in all states.

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