The internet is full of articles about the number of steps necessary to buy a home. They make it sound as if you can sit in front of your computer for an hour in the morning and go house shopping in the afternoon. This is likely the largest purchase you have made in your life, and if you haven't done your homework, can be a very stressful experience. Our real estate agents want you to enter the process with a clear vision of the path before you and the confidence to know that with their help, you can navigate it. 

• Are you ready to buy a home?
  Readiness includes good work history, steady income, a good credit score, a working budget, and savings. If you have no idea how to create a budget or calculate your credit score, you're in good company. More than half of Americans have no idea how much money they spent last month. They think of budgets like they do diets: One more set of rules to control you. But in truth, a budget is a roadmap to your ultimate goals, and there is no shame in asking for directions along the way. HUD offers several opportunities for first-time home buyers to get the information they need online and with a housing counselor. A counselor can help guide you in creating a budget and answer your questions.
  
  
• What steps will a housing counselor recommend?

1. 1. Create and follow a budget.
   2. Clean up your credit. A credit counselor can help, but you can do it yourself by running a free credit report on AnnualCreditReport.com and addressing any negative items. Do not make settlements, as they'll stay on your report for seven years, just like a bankruptcy. Some collection companies will remove the item in exchange for a payment in full. 
   3. Save sufficient cash for a down payment and closing costs. Investigate programs that may assist you with down payments. 

• Make a plan

1. 1. Figure out what kind of home is best for you.
   2. Determine how much cash you need upfront and how much you can afford to pay monthly. 
   3. Set a target date for your purchase.

• Investigate lenders

1. 1. Meet with them and ask them questions about their services and the types of loans they recommend.
   2. Meet with more than one before you decide. You should feel comfortable and secure with their representative.
   3. Get pre-approved for the mortgage you want. This will help you determine the purchase price you can afford. 

• Find the right real estate agent
  At Fisher Nicolson Realty, experienced agents are ready to guide you through buying a home, representing your interests, and answering your concerns at every step.

• Start your house hunt

1. 1. Consult your wish list and add any caveats. 
   2. Make sure your agent knows the details of your dream home, including any dealbreakers. 
   3. Pick the house you want.

• Make an offer and start the buying process

1. 1. Loan processing and underwriting.
   2. A home appraisal by a third party will determine the home's value.
   3. The home inspection determines the condition of the property and suggests repairs.
   4. Negotiate for necessary repairs and credits for work the buyer will need to have done after the assumption of the property. 
   5. A title search ensures that the seller has the legal right to do so and uncovers any liens on the property. 
   6. Close the deal with a final walk-through and take the keys!

Contact us if one of the Klamath Falls homes for sale is on your wish list.