The real estate market is getting back on its feet and a lot more people are interested in purchasing a home. This means that banks are becoming more lenient to give out loans, but you must still do your part to save for a home. You want to try and save to provide a 20 percent down payment for the home of your choice. If you cannot save the 2o percent down payment then at least try and save as much as you can. It is wise to also save up enough money to pay a few months worth of rent should you fall into financial hardship.
Your Downpayment
Saving up for a 20 percent down payment could take a long time. Luckily financial assistance such as FHA loans exists and allows you to put down as little as 3.5 percent. This means you do not have to save up as much money, but should still try and put down as much as you can on your first purchase. The more a person puts down on a home the lower the monthly payments will become.
How Much Can You Afford
Calculate your bills to get started in the saving process. Next, determine the amount you make every month to understand how much you can save. This is the first way you can establish a budget and figure out how to save. Depending on how much you make and when you want to buy a home is going to determine how much to save and what type of home you can purchase. Saving $100 a week is a good move but if you cannot afford that much money then try to establish a different kind of budget. If you save $100 a week then that equals $5,200 a year which means you should have enough for a down payment on a $350,000 home loan with 5 percent down in as little as 3 years. Think about it, in just 3 years you could move into a home you can call your own.
Your Credit Score
Your FICO score plays a big factor on the annual percentage rate you are given on a home loan. The higher your FICO score the lower your rate. Combined with a decent down payment and your home loan won’t be too expensive. To increase your FICO score pay all of your bills on time and reduce any debts with credit or loans down as much as possible. Buying a home takes years of preparation but if you are persistent in your efforts you can land the home of your dreams.
To save for a home you need to dedicate yourself to saving as it is very hard for someone that is not mature to save for a home. However, it is a good idea to stop renting and take the necessary steps toward becoming a homeowner. You will find a sense of freedom when you can do whatever you want in your very own home to call your own. Anyone that wants to start a family or that has one started should make moves to move into a home so you all have a place to call your own.