Frequently Asked Questions about Buying Your First Home

 by: Damon Thomas

The idea of buying a new home for the first time can be overwhelming for most people. It is probably the largest investment they have ever made, and the process itself seems downright intimidating. Here are answers to a few questions about homeownership from www.casanuevahouston.com and www.casanuevasanantonio.com. Much more information is offered online at these websites.

How do I know how much I can afford?

Most people like to think of it in terms of their monthly payment. A good rule-of-thumb is that your total monthly payment will be about 1% of the purchase price. If a new home costs $100,000, the total monthly payment will be about $1,000.

What kind of down payment is needed? How much money is needed for closing costs?

With 100% financing, which is often available, you typically need about 3% out of your own pocket for various closing cost such as taxes and insurance. So, for a $100,000 loan that is 100% financed, you would need about $3,000 total cash. There are also home buyer assistance programs that can provide down payment grants to qualified applicants.

How much income do I need?
  (continued...)

Frequently Asked Questions about Buying Your First Home
  Page 2

About The Author Damon Thomas is a contributor to www.casanuevahouston.com, a Houston-based company providing information for new home buyers.

Additional Resources

category - Home Buying Programs

Urban Rehabilitation Homeownership Program for Homebuyers in Connecticut
The Connecticut Housing Finance Authority, otherwise known as CHFA, is an independent quasi-public housing agency operating within the State of Connecticut that was established in 1969 in an effort to lessen or alleviate the hurdles regarding the lack or insufficient supply of affordable housing opportunities for Connecticut’s low- and moderate-income families and individuals.

---

First Time Homebuyer Programs in Virginia
In 1972, the Commonwealth of Virginia has constituted the establishment of the Virginia Housing Development Authority in an effort to respond to the needs of Virginians who seek quality, affordable housing.

---

Rehabilitation Mortgage Insurance Program
The Rehabilitation Mortgage Insurance Program intends to financially assist families as they repair or improve, purchase and improve, or refinance and improve their current residential properties that have been existent for more than a year.

---

Rural Community Development Initiative
The Rural Community Development Initiative can be awarded to legally qualified private, public, and tribal groups or organizations that have the experience and capability of providing training and technical assistance to nonprofit community-based housing and community development organizations, as well as low income rural communities.

---