Achieving the American dream of homeownership is certainly a worthwhile goal. When it's time to make this important lifetime investment, you need to be as educated as possible. Get started by using these essential tools.
How much can I borrow? How much will my mortgage payments be? How much will my adjustable rate payments be? Which is better: fixed or adjustable? Should I pay points to lower the rate? Which is better: 15- or 30- year loan term? How much should I put down for a new home? How much can I save in taxes? What will my closing costs be?Am I better off renting? Am I better off refinancing? What will my refinancing costs be? How can I reduce mortgage insurance costs? Which lender has the better loan? Which loan is better? How advantageous are extra payments? What home can I afford? How much will my interest-only payment be? Which is better: interest-only or traditional? Is my Private Mortgage Insurance Deductible? Am I eligible for the First-Time Homebuyer Credit?