Home Buying by the Numbers

Introduction

One of the best things you can do for yourself when looking for a new home, other than remaining realistic, is to acquire financing before even beginning your search. Think about the buying power you have when you walk into a car dealership with a check in hand and ready to purchase. The same holds true when buying a home. Sellers like the fact that you are obviously ready to buy, and you will be able to look at homes with confidence since you know what you financially qualify to buy. After all, it would be a shame to spend a lot of time looking at houses in the $275,000 range and fall in love with several of them only to later find out that the most financing you can qualify for is $200,000.  All the $200,000 homes will probably look pitiful next to the more expensive homes you had already viewed.  It is better to know ahead of time and have a realistic expectation of the sort of home you will be able to buy.