Before Starting Your Search

Correct Inaccuracies in Your Credit Files

  • Obtain a free copy of your credit reports from www.annualcreditreport.com.
  • Review all three credit reports and identify any incorrect information.
  • Dispute incorrect information in accordance with each credit bureau's dispute procedure.
  • Follow up with the credit bureaus to make sure that the incorrect information has been deleted or corrected and your credit file updated.
  • Click here to learn more about the importance of good credit scores.

Make a Budget

Use our Budget Tool to make a budget and figure out how much you can afford to spend monthly on housing related expenses including principal, interest, real property taxes, hazard insurance, mortgage insurance and HOA dues. With that information, we can help you figure out what your highest mortgage loan amount should be.

Start Saving

Do you have enough money to qualify for the mortgage loan, pay for the down payment and closing costs and have enough money left over for reserves? The minimum amount required for the down payment and whether any portion may be gifted depends on a number of factors including the loan amount, the loan product, the property type and the occupancy status. Contact us today and we will help you figure out how much money you will need to save to qualify for the mortgage and cover the closing costs.

Select Where You Want to Live

Compile a list of neighborhoods that you would like to live in. Research the neighborhoods and make sure that they are suitable for your needs. If you have children, find out what schools serve these neighborhoods. Drive the neighborhoods at different times of the day and get a general feel for the community and its residents. Ask family, friends and co-workers who live or are familiar with these neighborhoods for their input. Consider whether these neighborhoods are sufficiently close to your place of work, look into crime rates and evaluate the proximity of entertainment and recreational facilities.

Develop a Home Wish List

Make a list of the features that you are looking for in a home and prioritize the essential features such as the minimum number of bedrooms and bathrooms, minimum square footage, backyard size, pool, view and interior condition. Consider whether you need a home that is move-in ready or whether you would prefer to purchase a home at a discounted price that needs work.

Get Pre-Approved

Determine what is the highest loan amount that you can qualify for. Learn more about the benefits of being pre-approved and about the pre-approval process..