• It’s a good investment
  A home is an investment you can live in, and one of the best ways to build wealth for your future, and your children’s future.
  
  
• Pride of ownership
  Owning a home gives you a tremendous sense of accomplishment which translates to more self confidence, and better relationships with friends, family, and people in your community.
  
  
• Great tax benefits
  Homeownership offers substantial income tax benefits. You can deduct both mortgage interest and real estate taxes and save enough money to make owning a home cheaper than renting.
  
  
• Design with "you" in mind
  You can add your own personal touch to your home by renovating a kitchen, replacing old doors and fixtures, or just adding a fresh coat of paint. Best of all, you don’t need permission from a landlord.

Shopping for a home loan can become confusing if you don’t know what to look for.
Before you apply for a home loan there are five important questions you need to ask yourself.
If you need help, loan experts are available online or by calling toll-free: (866)-914-6170

That’s a difficult question to answer. Try anyway, because it could mean the difference between a lower rate and payment, getting a fixed or an adjustable rate loan, or accepting a pre -payment penalty.

If you’re still having trouble, ask yourself:

• Will my career require me to relocate?
• Will I need more space for a growing family?
• Will I receive a raise in salary?

Your credit score is the single most important item lenders use to assess your ability to pay back debt, so get familiar with it.

Credit scores range from 300 to a maximum of 900. They are calculated using your loan payment history, amount of available and used credit, public records, such as bankruptcies and foreclosures, and length of credit history. You may qualify for better priced loan programs if your scores rank 620 and above.

Ask your better choice loans professional for a free copy and analysis of your credit report.

With the introduction of “zero down” loans, and stated income, home buyers are able to borrow more than they can realistically afford. However without proper planning, many run the risk of losing their home for failure to keep up with timely mortgage payments.

Get a better idea of how much you can afford, by following these simple rules.

• Set good spending habits. Without the need for a down payment, it may be easy for you to spend above your means.
• Make sure the house fits into your budget.
• Be realistic. Focus on what you really need in a home.
• Don’t make quick decisions, plan accordingly.

You probably already have you a good idea of the neighborhood you’d like to live in, but it may be wise to broaden your search to neighborhoods who share similar qualities. You might find your dream home in an area that fits your needs more closely.

Ask yourself:

• How long will it take to get to work? What will it cost?
• How far will you be from family members?
• What are the schools, hospitals, and other public services like? How close are they?
• What's the traffic like during the week? In the evenings? On weekends?

A good real estate agent will help you find homes in your price range. The agent will help narrow your choices by finding properties that meet your expectations, and budget requirements. The best way to find a real estate agent is through referral sources such as, friends, relatives, and co-workers. They can provide you with a first hand account of the service they received, and make you feel more comfortable making a decision.

Here are some important things to know before choosing a real estate agent

• How long has the real estate agent been in the real estate business?
• Is the real estate agent familiar with your preferred community?
• How many homes has the real estate agent sold in the past year?
• Does the real estate agent usually work with sellers or buyers?