Credit Information - Buying Services

Congratulations!  You've decided to purchase a home, or, you're thinking about buying one.  You'll be joining the ranks of hundreds of families who realize that home ownership offers a number of benefits including building equity, saving for the future, and creating an environment for your family.  When you own your own home, your hard-earned dollars contribute to your mortgage.  The equity you earn is yours.  Over time, your home will increase in value. 

In preparation for this big event, you should arrange to have your credit checked to determine your eligibility and pre-approval for getting a mortgage.  By obtaining this information you will be able to identify any credit problems that you may have so that corrective action can be taken; it will assist with determining what price range you can afford; and, it will show the Seller that your are serious about your offer.  Click on the link below to learn more about the "credit process."

Credit Education Center

http://www.myfico.com/CreditEducation/CreditScores.aspx

Home Buying Tips

Buying a home can be a stressful time.  Paying special attention to the following items can help avoid potential problems associated with the process of purchasing a home:

• Is the neighborhood in a location that is convenient to work, schools and leisure activities (i.e., local sports, libraries, area lakes, shopping)?
• Does the community offer amenities and features that are important to you (swimming pool, tennis, golf)?
• How good are the area schools?
• Do the local roadways provide suitable access and manageable commute times?
• Are there any special mortgage incentive programs available?
• What does the homeowner's warranty cover on your home?
• If there are undeveloped areas in the community, ask your realtor how the areas are to be developed.
• How much are the various property taxes?
• Check the references of the homebuilder.
• Get a home inspection and seek to get the Seller to correct any problems.
• What are the homeowners insurance rates for homes in the area?
• Is the home in an area that is susceptible to flooding?

The reports noted below contain information that will help you make informed buying decisions.  You'll be taken through the planning process, step-by-step, to help you determine which home is right for you.  You'll find a host of informative articles on mortgages, viewing homes, making the offer, closing details and moving.