Buying a Home

1. Figure out how much you can afford
What you can afford depends on your income, credit rating, current monthly expenses, downpayment and the interest rate.

	How much home can you afford?
	Buying vs. Renting
	Home Economics

Homebuying programs in your state

2. Know your rights

	Fair Housing: Equal Opportunity for All- brochure
	Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA)
	Borrower's rights
	Predatory lending

3. Shop for a loan

	Looking for the best mortgage: shop, compare, negotiate- brochure
	Let FHA help you
	Learn about interest only loans
	Avoid Predatory Lenders

4. Learn about homebuying programs

Homebuying programs in your state

	Let FHA help you (FHA loan programs offer lower downpayments and are a good option for first-time homebuyers!)
	HUD's special homebuying programs Good Neighbor Next Door(formerly known as Teacher/Officer/Firefighter Next Door) Hurricane Evacuees discounted sales Homeownership for public housing residents Indian Home Loan Guarantee Program(Section 184)

5. Shop for a home

	Choose a real estate agent
	Wish list- what features do you want?
	Home-shopping checklist? take this list with you when comparing homes
	Homes for sale(including HUD homes)
	"Fixer-Uppers - home purchase and repair programs
	Manufactured (mobile) homes
	Build a home

6. Make an offer

Making an offer

7. Get a home inspection

	For Your Protection Get a Home Inspection
	10 Questions to ask a home inspector

8. Shop for homeowners insurance

	Homeowners insurance
	12 ways to lower your homeowners insurance costs

9. Sign papers
You're finally ready to go to "settlement" or "closing." Be sure to read everything before you sign!

Settlement Costs and Helpful Information