| The American Dream for many is owning their | | | | Once you have decided what type of home you |
| own home. Before you begin your adventure of | | | | want,the neighborhood you would like to live and |
| looking for your own home you should consider | | | | have saved enough money for a down payment |
| your housing and financial needs. Do you need 1 | | | | its time to shop. Ask your friends and family to |
| or 1 1/2 or 2 baths? Do you need lots of | | | | recommend the people you will need to make |
| storage? Do you see yourself tilling your garden | | | | your first home buying experience a success. You |
| or do you prefer watching others mow your | | | | will need a good real estate agent, home |
| lawn? Buying a house is a lifestyle investment | | | | inspector and a mortgage broker. Buying your |
| before it is a financial investment, remember you | | | | first home can be a challenge but it does not |
| will always need a place to live. | | | | have to be stressful if you take the time to write |
| Buying a home can be a good financial investment. | | | | out your plan. |
| Housing prices are similar to many other | | | | Tips for buying your first home. |
| investments, they can fluctuate! It is important | | | | 1. Determine how much you can spend and the |
| that you plan to keep your home for at least 10 | | | | monthly payment. |
| years. Keeping your mortgage to a minimum is | | | | 2. Determine the type, style and location of the |
| critical to a sound financial plan. You will want to | | | | home you want to own. |
| spend no more than 3 times your annual income | | | | 3. Find the professionals you will need to have a |
| and it is strongly suggested you put 20% or | | | | successful buying experience. |
| more as a down payment. | | | | 4. |