Finances

Finances What Are Closing Costs—and Who Pays? Closing costs for first-time buyers can feel confusing at first. These one-time fees and prepaids are due at settlement—separate from your down payment. Because they cover services like title, recording, and taxes, understanding your closing costs early helps you plan your true cash to close and avoid surprises. What’s typically included? Lender fees: underwriting, origination, […]
Finances What Credit Score Do I Need to Buy a Home? Your credit score affects both approval and pricing; therefore, understanding where you stand—and how to improve—can meaningfully lower your monthly payment. Even a 20-point difference may place you in a better pricing tier, which can translate into real savings. First, check your reports. Because your score is built from the data in your credit files, […]
Finances How Much Do I Need for a Down Payment? Saving for a down payment can feel daunting; however, most first-time buyers don’t need 20%. In many cases, 3–5% down is enough, and certain programs allow even less (or none for eligible VA/USDA buyers). To plan effectively, break your cash needs into three buckets: down payment, closing costs, and prepaids/escrows (the setup for property taxes […]
Finances How Much House Can I Afford? A First-Time Buyer Guide If you’re buying your first home, “How much can I afford?” is the right first question. To begin, start with a monthly payment you feel comfortable making-then work backward to the purchase price. First, clarify your monthly budget.List your fixed expenses-car, student loans, minimum credit cards, and subscriptions. Next, add a cushion for savings and […]
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