Understanding What You Can Afford

Before you start house hunting, you need to get a firm handle on your finances.  What do you earn?  What do you spend?  How much do you have in savings?  Answering these questions will help you determine if you are financially ready for homeownership.   

Your credit score is one of the most important factors that lenders use when determining if you qualify for a mortgage loan.  Because of its prominent role in the homebuying process, it’s important you understand how it’s compiled, how to obtain your credit report, and how to build your credit.

You have choices when it comes to your down payment, even the possibility of putting as little as 3% down. Carefully evaluate your finances to determine how much you can afford – for your down payment and all related closing costs – and talk with your lender about what makes best sense for you.

Today’s mortgage rates remain near historic lows and this has an important and direct effect on how much home you can afford. 

How does affordability across the nation fare in today’s environment?  Our Homebuyer Affordability Map lets you explore affordability where it matters most:  your local market.