6 Questions to Ask Before Buying Your First Home

Owning a home remains part of the American Dream, but doing so requires a strategy and discipline. If you’re looking to buy your first home, answer the following questions to help ensure you do everything you can to make this experience a success.

How Much House Can I Afford?

It’s important to calculate all your costs, from monthly expenses such as mortgage, taxes and insurance to occasional maintenance and repair costs.

Where Do I Buy?

Determine if your new home will add or subtract expenses to your budget due to the commute and public school taxes.

How Much Should I Put Down?

In most cases, you’ll want at least a 20% down payment on your new home. Smaller down payments often trigger the necessity of private mortgage insurance, which will add to your total costs.

Have I Done my Homework?

Make sure your credit rating is as strong as possible and comparison-shop for your best mortgage options.

Which Mortgage is the Best?

Many first-time homebuyers try to limit upfront costs, but doing so can increase your total costs if folded into your loan. Instead, look to pay no points when possible and limit other closing costs, including origination fees. When comparing mortgages, know that shorter-term options — such as a 15-year mortgage — usually offer lower rates and lifetime costs than a 30-year mortgage does.

What Do I Buy?

This ultimately depends on your financial means and lifestyle. First-time homebuyers may consider buying a lower-cost condo, but buying a two-family home can be a cost-effective option. You may want the finest home in the area, but a fixer-upper will likely be less expensive and a good candidate for price appreciation if you are handy and can make some updates.