Frequently Asked Questions about Buying Your First Home

 by: Damon Thomas

The idea of buying a new home for the first time can be overwhelming for most people. It is probably the largest investment they have ever made, and the process itself seems downright intimidating. Here are answers to a few questions about homeownership from www.casanuevahouston.com and www.casanuevasanantonio.com. Much more information is offered online at these websites.

How do I know how much I can afford?

Most people like to think of it in terms of their monthly payment. A good rule-of-thumb is that your total monthly payment will be about 1% of the purchase price. If a new home costs $100,000, the total monthly payment will be about $1,000.

What kind of down payment is needed? How much money is needed for closing costs?

With 100% financing, which is often available, you typically need about 3% out of your own pocket for various closing cost such as taxes and insurance. So, for a $100,000 loan that is 100% financed, you would need about $3,000 total cash. There are also home buyer assistance programs that can provide down payment grants to qualified applicants.

How much income do I need?
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Frequently Asked Questions about Buying Your First Home
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About The Author Damon Thomas is a contributor to www.casanuevahouston.com, a Houston-based company providing information for new home buyers.

Additional Resources

category - Home Buying Programs

Keystone Home Loan Program For First Time Homebuyers in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, more commonly referred to as PHFA, is an independent agency that was established in the year 1972 in an effort to contribute to the provision of reasonable and affordable housing opportunities the elderly, persons and families of modest means, and people suffering from disabilities.

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Construction Incentive Program for First Time Home Buyers in New York
The State of New York cares so much about its people. It looks out for them and constantly ascertains that their best interest is always protected. One of the ways in which the state has manifested this concern is through the establishment of the State of New York Mortgage Agency, more commonly referred to as SONYMA, which is a public authority established in 1970 designed to provide reasonable and affordable home-ownership opportunities to low and moderate income New Yorkers, especially to first time home buyers.

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Department of Housing and Urban Development: Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance Programs
The CoC Homeless Assistance programs is designed to reduce the incidence of homelessness in established CoC communities, thereby the need to assist homeless individuals and families during the process of quickly transitioning to self-sufficiency and permanent housing.

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Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program
The Connecticut Housing Finance Agency has been administering the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program wherein they intend to offer home loans at reasonable, below-market rates to Section 8 tenants who wish to purchase a home of their own.

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