Question: Should I get pre-qualified for a home loan before I start looking for a home?

Answer: Yes. Getting pre-qualified for a mortgage will strengthen your negotiating position, when you make an offer on a property. It will also let the seller of the home know that you are a serious buyer.

Question: How do I find a good lender that can pre-approve me for a home loan?

Answer: The best way to get an experienced loan officer is for you to ask your friends, and family members who they have used in the past. If they have not had any good experiences, then your Realtor can give you a list of experienced loan officers that can find the right loan to fit your needs.

Question: Does the condition of my home matter when I go to sell?

Answer: The condition of your home is only part of the real estate equation. You must also consider the location of your
home and the asking price. If those three items are in alignment with each other, you a have a recipe for success when selling your home.

Question: When is the best time to sell my home?

Answer: The best time to sell your home is when you have the least competition. Many people think that the spring or summer is the best time to sell your home, and that the fall or winter is the worst time to sell your home. Your home will be most appealing to buyers when there are only a few similar homes, to compare your house against.

Question: Are there any grant or down payment assistance programs that can help me buy my first home?

Answer: Yes. There are several programs that
are available to you. Most programs have limited funds so you may have to check for availability of funds for many government programs. There are also many non-profit organizations that have down payment assistant programs that are not limited on funds. Learn more about these by attending a home-buying seminar in your area.