Are you getting ready to buy your first home? It is important to know how much you can afford before you begin looking at properties. Talking with a lender and getting pre-approved for a loan puts you in a stronger negotiating position with sellers.

As a rule, your monthly housing costs should not exceed 28% of your monthly pre-tax income. These costs include the mortgage payment, real estate taxes, and insurance. If you have long-term debts, such as student loans or car payments, your monthly payments, including your housing costs, should be less than 36% of your pre-tax monthly income. Some loans, such as VA and FHA loans, are more flexible with these basic guidelines.

Depending on which type of mortgage you select, you can consider houses in various price ranges. An adjustable-rate mortgage will usually enable you to qualify for a higher loan amount. Your real estate agent can help you make the basic calculations. Remember that buying at the top end of your price range gives you more time to outgrow your home, and can save you money over the long term.

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Libby Churchill Team
Christensen Realty USA
712 James Street
Clayton, NY 13624
Office - 315-686-4000
Direct Line: 315-783-7021
Fax: 315-686-3464
Libby@ChurchillTeam.com

The Libby Churchill Team adheres to a Standard of Excellence that guides our customer service throughout every transaction. We strive to ensure that every sale is handled with the utmost professionalism and class. The service and information that we provide to our clients and customers is prompt, accurate and thorough.