Throughout the home buyer process you will be faced with many important decisions that have the potential to affect you and your family form may years to come. It is important that you make these choices by using the most up to date information and by having a professional on your side to navigate through the unseen complexities of your purchase. Anyone can stumble through the purchase process, however, only a few can do it the correct way.
Buying a home is not only signing paperwork and receiving a house, there are many other complex tasks that have to be completed:
1. What financing is best for you: FHA, conventional, CHFA, CHAC, or Hard Money? Should you put 10%, 15%, or 20% down? What programs are available for first time home buyers?
2. Monthly payment verses long term profit: Is it more important for you and your family to have a low fixed monthly payment, or are you looking to pay off the home faster to accrue more equity?
3. Taxes and Homeowners Insurance: When you are looking to purchase a home it is important to understand the local tax rates and what items and/or structures will affect your homeowner’s insurance policy. These two items can drastically affect your monthly payment.
4. Title insurance policy: Completing and reviewing title documents is normally handled by your Realtor, however, it is extremely important that you understand this paperwork. It is essential that the documents are provided at/or before closing to ensure that there are not any liens or encumbrances attached to the property when you complete your purchase.
5. Contract legality: Throughout your purchase you will be asked to sign your name numerous times. This is one of the most important items to pay attention to. It is essential that you are signing the correct documents and that these documents are prepared correctly. Never be afraid to ask questions if there is something you do not understand.