The Property Emporium's National Relocation Service

                                          The Buyers Guide To Real Estate                                                               Planning                      

                                                       By Robert A Reynolds                                                                                           How do I determine how much I can afford? 

It will depend on two things, how much you can afford for a monthly house payment, and how much you can invest in the down payment. Monthly payments include PRINCIPAL and INTEREST on the mortgage loan, PROPERTY TAXES and INSURANCE against fire and other and other hazards. These four costs are often referred to in the business as "P.I.T.I." (For some buyers, monthly housing costs may include homeowner association dues, condominium fees and mortgage insurance.)  

• I think I want to buy a home-how do I start?

• How do I determine how much I can afford?

• How do I know how much monthly payment I can afford?

• How much down payment do I need?

• What sources can I use for my down payment?

• What formulas do most lenders use to determine what monthly payment they will approve?

• How do I go about choosing an area and and a specific home?

• How do I choose a neighborhood?

• Should I look at existing homes or new construction?

• I'll only be in the area six months-should I buy or rent?

• How long do I need to be in the area to make buying a good decision?

• Is it really a good idea to buy instead of rent?

• When is the best time of the year to buy?

• How do the up front costs of buying and renting compare?

• What are the advantages of buying a home?

• How much appreciation can I expect?

• What does Homeowners insurance cover? 

                                                     Choosing A Home 

                                                           The Offer

                                                    Money & Financing