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?
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Frequently Asked Questions about Buying Your First Home
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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

First Time Homebuyer Programs in Georgia
In July 1996, the Governor and General Assembly made a vital decision to join together the Georgia Housing and Finance Authority (GHFA) with the Department of Community Affairs.

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Homebuyer Mortgage Program for First Time Homebuyers in Connecticut
The Connecticut Housing Finance Authority has been administering the Homebuyer Mortgage Program for First Time Homebuyers. The program is capable of offering home loans and below-market interest rates to first time homebuyers who reside in Connecticut and who are planning to acquire a property that is located in Connecticut.

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Affordable Housing Partnership Program for the First Time Home Buyers in California
The Affordable Housing Partnership Program is a housing opportunity that enables first time home buyers in the State of California to seek financial assistance from lending institutions that have formed a partnership with CalHFA for the purposes of this endeavor.

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Down Payment Assistance Loan for First Time Home Buyers in New York
In line with this, The State of New York Mortgage Agency has been running the Down Payment Assistance Loan Program (DPAL) wherein it intends to help first time home buyers overcome the setbacks brought about by down payments and closing costs.

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