Decide how much house you can afford. Our simple rules will make sure you don't spend more than you have and wind up regretting it. How much will you need for a down payment? With "no down" deals almost impossible to get, you'll need a down payment of at least 3% to 5%, maybe more.
Avoid the 7 biggest mortgage mistakes. This is the biggest financial decision most of us will make. Avoid these pitfalls and you'll save time, money and trouble.
Determine whether an FHA-backed loan is right for you. If you have little or no money for a down payment, iffy credit and too many bills, this government program could be the help you need to buy a home.
Find the perfect mortgage. A great rate. Affordable monthly payments. No surprises. You can have it all.
How to buy a foreclosure. They typically cost 10% to 20% less than comparable homes if you get a good deal and avoid all the costly problems.
Find the best real estate agent. When you're ready to look for your dream home, hire a buyer's real estate agent who will work for you -- not the seller.
10 simple questions your Good Faith Estimate should answer. Make sure you're getting the loan you've been promised and avoid nasty surprises.
Avoid buying a problem condo. There are special risks if you land in a bad building with lots of foreclosures and deadbeat owners.
Save on closing costs. Our 5 smart moves will help you spot and reduce unnecessary fees, making your settlement less costly and aggravating.
The 7 reasons you should pass on interest-only mortgages. If you need one of these loans to lower the payments, it's a sign you're spending too much.
State programs offer lots of help. First-time buyers can also qualify for special mortgages and cash for down payments and closing costs.
Rent-to-buy is a marketing gimmick. It's a way to lease hard-to-sell houses. There's little benefit to renters and little chance the house will ever be theirs.
Get preapproved for a mortgage. This is something everyone should do before looking for a home. We'll tell you why and show you how.
Figure out the insurance you'll need. Here's what you've got to have, what you might want, and what you can do without.
A state-by-state review of programs that aid home buyers. This listing will quickly link you to the help that's available in your state, county or town.
Use a no-doc or low-doc loan if your financial life doesn't fit the mold. Don't misuse one to inflate your income and buy a home you can't really afford.
Turn down the optional life insurance. The specialized policies lenders push are not the best way to have the mortgage paid off if you die. We have a cheaper, better idea.
40- and 50-year loans won't reduce your monthly payments that much. But they make it much harder to build equity. And that's a big part of homeownership.
Ace a mortgage application. We know all the questions you'll be asked.
Get your paperwork ready. Our checklist will make sure you remember everything.
