WHAT’S INSIDEKnow what to plan for.
Eleven pages, in the order the decisions actually arrive: what the payment really costs, what cash you need and keep, how to compare two offers fairly, and what happens between an accepted offer and the keys.
- 01
The whole housing paymentPrincipal and interest, property taxes, homeowners and any required flood insurance, mortgage insurance if required, association dues, plus utilities and maintenance.
- 02
A worked monthly budget exampleThe same worksheet filled in line by line, so you can see how an approval limit and a comfortable budget can differ.
- 03
Cash to close, and cash to keepStart from money available, subtract remaining cash to close, moving costs, and first repairs — then set the cushion you want left.
- 04
Getting ready to make an offerWhat a preapproval does and does not promise, the documents usually discussed, and four questions for that conversation.
- 05
Compare the full offer, not the rateTwo Loan Estimates side by side: rate and APR, lock expiration, points and lender credits, cash to close, and cash left after the move.
- 06
Offer to closing, step by stepInspection versus appraisal, insurance and tax checks, and safe wire instructions. For most mortgages, receive the Closing Disclosure at least three business days before closing.
- 07
Your one-page homebuying briefWhere and when you want to buy, your comfortable payment, your minimum cash cushion, and your biggest open question — ready to bring to a conversation.
