TEN MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN BUYING YOUR FIRST HOUSE

The home buying process should be an exciting time in your life. This handy list of what NOT TO DO is our way of making sure the process is smooth and stress-free.

1. DO NOT Buy A Home Without Professional Inspections. It is highly recommended that you get property, roof, and termite inspections. This way you will know what you are buying and prevent unnecessary future expense.

2. DO NOT Wait to Get Homeowners Insurance. Most people make the mistake of waiting until just before closing to have insurance. By calling around sooner you can have time to find the best insurance for you.

3. DO NOT Allow Any Negative Bank Drafts or Balances. Because you may be asked to supply recent bank statements please check to make sure all payments have cleared and your accounts maintain a positive balance.

4. DO NOT Make Large Deposits or Transfer Funds. It is best to leave your money right were it is. Moving your money or making large deposits cause confusion with the verification process and you will be asked to explain any large deposits into your account over the last 3 months.

5. DO NOT Make Late payments. Due to the probability of having to re-verify your credit history prior to closing, you should always pay all bills when due, without
exception.

6. DO NOT Increase Your Credit Balances. Avoid increasing the balance on your credit cards because this will increase you minimum payment due and may have a negative impact on your overall credit score.

7. DO NOT Change Jobs. Changing jobs before or during the loan process can create a real problem in qualifying you for the loan.

8. DO NOT Make Any Large Purchases. A large purchase can affect the amount of home you qualify for and, during the loan process itself, make it extremely difficult to get your loan approved.

9. DO NOT Pay Off Your Bills. Your loan officer will advise you if necessary to pay of bills to help you qualify for a loan. They will also show you the best way to pay off bills to make sure you have the evidence needed to verify the bill has been paid in full.

10. DO NOT Forget to Ask Questions. You must make sure you feel absolutely comfortable and understand the process. Our consultants are here to not only
provide you with the best mortgage options but guide you thru the process.

Click here for a guide to using the Futures Home Assistance Program.