When searching for a home, finding the right mortgage lender is one of the most important steps in the process. Getting a mortgage preapproval provides a more accurate estimate of how much house you can afford and gives you buying power when house hunting.
Tag Archives | Buying A House
Frugal Living Tips So You Can Afford a Down Payment on a House
by Travis Pelto on January 24, 2013 in Home Buying, Saving, Trends
What’s the best way to save money for your first down payment on a house? Start with these frugal living tips around the house to save money, and become a smart homeowner.
Questions to Ask When Looking for a Real Estate Agent
by Gabriela Islas on June 26, 2012 in Home Buying, Home Sales
When buying a home, you want all the help you can get. Finding the right real estate agent can not only take away some of the stress from all the negotiations and complicated paperwork, but an experienced agent will also help you find the right home for you. Here’s a list of questions to ask any potential real estate agent to help you choose the right one.
Questions to Ask When Shopping for Home Insurance
by Gabriela Islas on June 15, 2012 in Home Buying, Smart Shopper
If this is your first time shopping for home insurance, you probably don’t know what to ask your insurance agent. You want to make sure you ask the right questions in order to find the right type of policy for you. Here’s a list of questions you can ask while shopping for home insurance.

See If You Qualify For a Home Loan Without Even Picking Up the Phone!
by Gabriela Islas on May 25, 2012 in Home Buying, Refinance Mortgage
If you’re thinking about refinancing or buying a home and want to get started but don’t feel like you’re ready to speak to a banker yet, the online credit pull tool is a convenient and safe option.You may be able to see if you qualify for a home loan without even picking up the phone or leaving your house!
Buying A Home Won’t Get Much Cheaper
by Gabriela Islas on May 4, 2012 in Home Buying, Home Sales, Mortgage Rates
CNN Money published an article about home prices going up in the near future. Housing experts talk about several signs showing that the record-low home prices may not stay this low forever.
Home Inspection Checklist
by Gabriela Islas on February 27, 2012 in Home Buying
Did you read my last post about questions to ask a potential home inspector? Well, this week I provide a checklist to give you an idea of things that are and aren’t typically inspected. This will help you learn more about your new home, find any potential deal breakers as you look for homes or even help you maintain your existing home in tip-top shape!
Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Home Inspector
by Gabriela Islas on February 17, 2012 in Home Buying
After negotiating a price on a home, home buyers need to sign a purchase agreement. Savvy buyers choose to add a home inspection as a contingency in the purchase agreement. If you’ve never done this before, it can be hard to know what to look for in a home inspector. Here are some questions to ask before you decide to hire a home inspector.
New Construction vs. Older Homes in Today’s Market
by Gabriela Islas on January 13, 2012 in Home Buying, Smart Shopper
One question to ask yourself when shopping for a home is whether you’d like a new construction or an older home. Are you one of those people who love the new paint smell? Or are you looking for a home with “charm” that’s close to everything? Read the pros and cons of each type of home.

Saving Money in 2012
by Gabriela Islas on November 30, 2011 in Economic Analysis, Home Buying, Home Sales, Mortgage Rates, Refinance Mortgage
CNN Money had some good advice on how to save (and make) money in 2012. They talk about how you can save money when buying a home, refinancing, and selling your home. Housing market forecast is also mentioned.
