Back to School for Homebuyers: What to Ask Before Buying a Home

Just as students prepare for a new school year, first-time homebuyers are also gathering their own 'supplies' to navigate the exciting journey of purchasing a new home. As you begin your homeownership journey, you might be asking yourself, 'where do I get started?' along with a million other home buying questions. At Southern Trust Mortgage, we empower our clients with the information and guidance needed for a seamless home buying process, especially for those new to the market. 

Ready to start your journey to homeownership? Here are some essential questions to ask yourself before starting this major financial milestone. 

How Much Home Can I Afford? 

Understanding your home buying budget and how much home you can truly afford is crucial before diving into apps like Zillow, Trulia, or Redfin. To set yourself up for success and avoid frustration, the best first step is to work with a Mortgage Loan Officer to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This essential step clarifies how much home you can afford, setting realistic expectations. Plus, you'll gain a trusted partner who can answer all your first-time home buyer questions and smoothly guide you through the entire home buying process. 

How Much of a Down Payment Do I Need to Buy a House? 

While a 20% down payment has its perks, like no need for monthly mortgage insurance, many buyers successfully purchase their home with low down payments options especially with the help of local, state & federal programs catered to first time homebuyers. It's crucial to understand that your down payment amount directly impacts the size of your mortgage loan and, consequently, your monthly mortgage payments. To gain a better understanding of what your payments could look like, consider using a mortgage calculator early in the process to explore different scenarios. 

What Are the Hidden Costs When Buying a Home?  

Every homebuyer's financial situation is unique, which is why meeting with a Mortgage Loan Officer is key. Aside from your down payment, there are often "hidden costs" that many first-time homebuyers overlook. A knowledgeable mortgage professional will clarify these fees, but you should anticipate expenses such as closing costs, home inspection fees, title fees, and various real estate taxes and fees. Being aware of these additional home buying costs early in the process will help you avoid unexpected financial surprises and ensure a smoother, stress-free experience. 

As you start the homebuying process, you may find that you have more questions than answers. That's why partnering with experienced mortgage and real estate professionals who prioritize your needs will provide the guidance and confidence you need to find your ideal home. 

Ready to get started? Contact your favorite WSRE REALTOR® to get connected with a member of the Southern Trust team for a no-obligation mortgage consultation.